9 Accelerated Nursing Programs in California

This blog post covers everything you need to know about accelerated nursing programs in California. If you have had an interest in or you are making a decision about attending an accelerated program in California, then this post is a quench to that thirst. We have explained, in great detail about the accelerated programs in California including the requirements, costs, and duration of the study.

But, before we take that huge leap into which schools offer the above course, let us have a review of what nursing is all about.

Nursing—is an integral part of the health care system, that encompasses the promotion of health, prevention of illnesses, and the care of the physically, mentally ill, while providing a high degree of care and attention to physically challenged persons of all ages.

Nursing especially in the 21st century is the glue that holds a patient’s health care journey together. Across the entire patient experience, and wherever a person requires attention and care, nurses work tirelessly to identify and protect the needs of the individual.

Nursing by many is described as being both an art as it is a science; having a heart and a mind. At its heart lies the fundamentals of respect giving to the dignity of human lives and an intuition for the patient’s needs.

This is pillared by the mind, which is shaped by laborious core learning. Given the vast range of specialisms and complex skills in the nursing profession, each nurse will have specific strengths, passions, and expertise.

There is a unifying philosophy within the profession that is nursing. In accessing a patient, nurses not only consider test results but through critical thinking represented in the nursing process, nurses make informed decisions to integrate objective data with a subjective experience of a patient’s biological, physical and behavioral needs.

This guarantees that every patient from a city hospital to a community health center, state prison to summer camps, receives the best possible care regardless of who they are or where they may be.

What is it that Nurses do Exactly?

The field of nursing is large and varying, there is no straight answer to this. The responsibilities fielded on nurses can range from making acute treatment decisions to providing inoculations in schools.

The key communal characteristic in every role is the skill and drive that it takes to be a nurse. Through long-term monitoring of patients’ behavior and knowledge-based expertise, nurses are the best positioned to take an all-inclusive view of a patient’s wellbeing.

What are the types of nurses available?

For an individual to become a nurse, he/she must complete a rigorous program of extensive education and study, and work directly with patients, families, and communities using the core values of the nursing process. In the present-day United States, nursing roles can be divided into three types by the specific tasks they perform.

  1. REGISTERED NURSES

Registered Nurses (RN) form the backbone of the health care provisions in the United States. RNs perform important roles by providing critical health care to the public wherever it is needed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform physical exams and health histories before making critical decisions.
  • Provide health promotions, counseling, and education.
  • Administer medications and other personalized interventions.
  • Coordinate care, in collaboration with a wide array of health care professionals.
  1. ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) must possess at least a Master’s degree, this is in addition to the initial nursing education and licensing requirement needed from all RNs. The responsibilities of an APRN include—but are not limited to—providing invaluable primary and preventative health care to the public. APRNs treat and diagnose illnesses, advise the public on health issues, manage chronic diseases and engage in continuous education to remain at the very forefront of any technological, methodological, or other developments in the field.

APRNs Practice Specialist Roles

  • Nurse Practitioners prescribe medication, diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries.
  • Certified Nurse-Midwives provide gynecological and low-risk obstetrical care.
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists handle a wide range of physical and mental health problems.
  • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists administer more than 65 percent of all anesthetics.
  1. LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), support the core health care team and work under the supervision of an RN, APRN, or MD. With the function of providing basic and routine care, the LPNs ensure the well-being of patients throughout the entire journey to recovery.

Key Responsibility

  • Check the vital signs and look for signs that health is deteriorating or improving.
  • Perform basic nursing functions such as changing bandages and wound dressings.
  • Ensure patients are comfortable, well-fed, and hydrated.
  • May administer medications in some cases.

What is the Nursing Process?

Irrespective of the field of specialization a nurse might operate in, they all utilize the same nursing process; a scientific method designed to deliver the very best in patient care, through five simple steps.

  • Assessment – Nurses assess patients on an in-depth physiological, economic, social, and lifestyle basis.
  • Diagnosis – Through careful consideration of both the physical symptoms and patient behavior, nurses can develop a diagnosis.
  • Outcomes / Planning – The nurse uses their expertise to set realistic goals for the patient’s recovery. These objectives are then closely monitored.
  • Implementation – By precisely implementing the care plan, nurses guarantee uniformity of care for the patient whilst accurately documenting their progress.
  • Evaluation – By closely analyzing the effectiveness of the care plan and studying the patient’s response, the nurse hones the plan to achieve the very best patient outcomes.

What Fields of Specialization do Nurses Operate in?

Nurses work alongside doctors, physicians, therapists, patients’ families, etc. to successfully achieve the aim of treating illness and bringing the sick, broken, and injured back to optimal health. However, there are some settings where nurses are within their jurisdiction to treat patients independently.

There are a lot of specialties in the nursing field but nursing is generically divided into the need of the patient is taken care of. These needs are of diverse categories including;

  • Cardiac nursing
  • Radiology
  • Emergency nursing
  • Telenursing
  • Nursing informatics
  • Oncology nursing
  • Obstetrical nursing
  • Perioperative nursing
  • Palliative nursing
  • Orthopedic nursing

These grant nurses the ability to work in various areas such as;

  • Acute care hospitals
  • Communities/public centers
  • Family/individual across the said lifespan
  • Neonatal
  • Women’s health/gender-related
  • Mental health
  • School/college infirmaries
  • Ambulatory settings
  • Informatics i.e E-health
  • Pediatrics
  • Adult-gerontology, just to mention a few.

What are the Benefits of Being a Nurse?

In-depth research has shown us that being a nurse has some added benefits such as financial breakthrough and freedom to others such as;

  • The demand for nurses is very high, having a high employability rate, take for instance in the United States, there are over 4 million registered nurses—meaning that for every 100 people there is one registered nurse.
    But according to the January 2012 “United States Registered Nurse Workforce Report Card and Shortage Forecast” a shortage of registered nurses is projected to spread across the country between 2009 and 2030. In this state-by-state analysis, the authors forecast the RN shortage to be most intense in the South and the West.
  • The job fulfillment derived from the nursing career is high which makes nurses feel personally rewarded.
  • In nursing, the room for self-improvement is huge, giving rise to rise to professional development making the nursing field a highly developed and specialized field.
  • The internationalization opportunities of being a qualified nurse are enticing as there are employment opportunities in countries such as Australia, the U.K, Switzerland, and parts of Africa, there are also many visa offerings to emigrating nurses.
  • The flexibility of work is one benefit enjoyed by nurses as they do not have to be at work always, instead they are used on shifts.
  • It is a globally recognized and respected career.
  • There are a lot of fields where nurses can choose to work depending on their tastes, flair for it, interest, choice, and experience one has.

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average registered nurse in the United States earns around $72,000 annually, that is $35 per hour. This makes the career are really interesting and fascinating field.

What does the Accelerated Nursing Program Entail?

This is a nursing degree option that fast-tracks the duration of the students to earn their Bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) or Master’s in nursing (MSN) quicker than usual. These programs are purposefully designed in such a way as to reduce the period a student uses in achieving his/her aim of becoming a nurse.

If—by the odd chance—that you are amongst those considering having a career in nursing, and would love to follow the accelerated nursing route, it is advised you stay glued to this post as we explain—in very fine detail—the various accelerated nursing programs in California.

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9 Accelerated Nursing Programs in California

This section contains the Accelerated Nursing Programs in California for BSN, MSN, and LVNs programs. It also holds the costs, program requirements, and duration of the listed courses.

  • Career Care Institute
  • California State University-Northridge, Northridge
  • California State University-San Marcos, San Marcos
  • California State University-Stanislaus, Stockton
  • Concordia University, Irvine
  • Loma Linda University, Loma Linda
  • Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles
  • National University, Los Angeles, Fresno & San Diego
  • Samuel Merritt University, Oakland, San Mateo & Sacramento

1.      CAREER CARE INSTITUTE

Career Care Institute, also known as CCI, is one of the most progressive vocational training facilities you will find in Southern California.

CCI’s nationally accredited campuses are not only focused on short-term instruction but also to train professionals for long-term success. The CCI prides itself on delivering quality education for the sole purpose of preparing our students for long-term careers.

With 20 years of healthcare educational experience, CCI has the knowledge, experience, and facilities to fast-track you in becoming a professional and skilled Nurse.

CCI’s Vocational Nursing program is designed to speed up students into becoming employable as those who have completed the program have earned an average salary of $25/hr.

With its core mission and values set on integrity, service orientation, innovation, excellence, and passion, it is little wonder why CCI has focused on student mental and physical improvement with emphasis set on instruction and guidance, it serves the needs of its community, promote self-discipline, and put others before self.

There are a few reasons why CCI is held in high regard;

  • Low student-to-teacher ratio in clinical settings.
  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Program duration as little as 14 months
  • High salary earning probability post-graduation
  • Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn eligibility to be administered to the National Council Licensure Examination for Vocational /Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) examination.

Tuition and fees are as follows;

Registration                                                      $80.00

Books

Adult Health Nursing                                                                         $110.00

Foundation of Nursing                                                                       $110.00

Introduction to Clinical Pharmacology                  $95.00

Medical Terminology: PDF Booklet                       $0.00

Structure & Function of the Body                        $5.00                         $400.00

ATI                                                                                                  $950.00

Supplies; stethoscope + training supplies                                             $200.00

Uniform: 2 sets + lab coat + white scrub top in Level III                       $125.00

Exam fees: BVNPT Application + NCLEX Exam                                     $0.00

STRF                                                                                               $0.00

Tuition                                                                                             $29,245.00

TOTAL                                                                                                  $31,000.00

Required Items Not Included in Tuition Upon Enrollment

Entrance Exam Fee                                                                     $40.00

Background Check                                                                      $30.00

Drug Screening                                                                          $36.00

Required Items Not Included in Tuition

Fire class                                                                                   $15.00

AV Hospital ID Badge                                                                  $5.00

Drug Screen to admit to the clinical site (upon request)                        $36.00

LiveScan Prior to Graduation                                                                                                                       $80.00

NET TOTAL                                                                                   $31,136.00

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Here are some of the admission requirements that must be met before considerations will be given to any applicant;

  • All applicants will have a personal interview with an Admission Administrative.
  • All applicants must have a tour of the school campus
  • All applicants will be required to take a WONDERLIC entrance examination. A passing score is required for enrollment. Students must score the following in math and reading comprehension—VN Program: 300 Maths; 350 Verbal
  • Students must submit a tuberculin-screening test before the first day of class. Students may be given no more than a one-week extension beyond their first day of class by the Campus Director.
  • A valid ID and social security card are required
  • All applicants enrolled in any of the programs must have all financial obligations completed before class begins. A nonrefundable registration fee is due upon enrollment.

For more information, please click HERE

2.      CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY-NORTHRIDGE

The accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (A-BSN) is a fasted paced program that prepares students for a career in nursing. It is designed for those who have a Bachelor’s degree (in any field of study), the graduates from this specially designed program of the CSUN are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) required for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

The CSUN’s program naturally takes four (4) consecutive semesters to complete the course required for licensure. During this, students learn to access, restore, maintain, promote, and evaluate the health of individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations. The nursing programs include classroom instructions and clinical laboratories in inpatient care settings.

Here are some of the benefits of pursuing an A-BSN with the California State University-Northridge;

  • It takes 4 consecutive semesters to complete the course requirements for licensure.
  • It is a 15-months program that enables students to partake in the NCLEX
  • They train students to be on-field ready using practical methods of learning.
  • The CSUN campus is a serene place for learning with well stock, up-to-date laboratories, and other medical requirements needed for learning.
  • The A-BSN program of the CSUN prepares students to practice in a variety of health-related settings with an emphasis on hands-on experience.
  • CSUN A-BSN graduates work as direct care providers, school nurses, public health nurses, managers, staff educators, and clinical instructors in schools.

COST OF PROGRAM

The estimated cost of the program is between $16,000 to $18,000 which includes the tuition fees, books, uniforms, and background checks. Financial assistance and a variety of scholarships are available to qualified students.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants to be considered for admission into the CSUN A-BSN must meet both university and individual eligibility requirements.

To be admitted to the program, applicants must possess the following:

  • An earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S institution or international equivalent with a GPA of 3.0 or higher or a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • All prerequisite course grades must be ‘C’ or higher. Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate they have met all prerequisites.
  • A personal interview may be requested of any applicants to the Accelerated Bachelor of Science Nursing program.
  • For more information about the requirements please click

For more information please click HERE

3.      CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY-SAN MARCOS

CSUSM which was established in 1989, is one of the 23 campuses of the California State University system. With its location, situated amid beaches, deserts, and mountains, the campus offers a beautiful location advantage for learning that very few can provide.

Known for its Accelerated Learning programs, CSUSM provides an Accelerated BSN which is goal-oriented and delivers in terms of results and industry readiness.

The Accelerated Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing is a 24-month program designed for those who have already completed a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than Nursing and have not completed any LVN or RN coursework.

Students will complete approximately 78-semester units of study in both didactic and clinical coursework.

Upon completion of the program, students are rewarded with both a B.Sc in Nursing and are granted the enablement to partake to sit in the NCLEX examination for RN licensure.

The CSUSM offers some unique benefits including;

  • A stunning location—amidst beaches, deserts, and Mountains—that offers an exceptional learning experience.
  • The A-BSN is a 24-month program that is face-paced that is designed to input students with didactic and clinical skills.
  • CSUSM provides students with a cohort—which is a group of students that work together through a curriculum to achieve the same academic degree. Because they gained admission together, are into the same program, take their classes together, and graduate together, students in cohorts tend to form a strong support system and professional network that benefit them during their degree program and beyond.

COST OF PROGRAM

The cost of admission totals $44,326, this program is eligible for financial aid.

REQUIREMENTS

Here are some of the requirements needed to be matched before consideration is given to any student;

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, or U.S equivalent for degree coursework completed outside of the U.S.
  • Minimum 2,5 GPA in the last 60 units completed.
  • Passage of the TEAS exam version six with a minimum 71.0 percent composite score.
  • Minimum of 2.75 GPA in the pre-nursing core.
  • Pre-Nursing core is a prerequisite to admission, as students are required to fulfill the pre-nursing core before admission. The pre-nursing core can be fulfilled through coursework taken at other universities or community colleges. It is noteworthy to know that pre-nursing core courses for which any student earns less than a grade of C (2.0) may be repeated only once.
  • For more information about the pre-nursing Core, please click HERE 

For more information click HERE

4.      CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY-STANISLAUS

California State University Stanislaus is also one of the twenty-three schools in the California State University system, it is an illustrious educational institution that is a preferred destination for over 9,000 students for their quest for quality education.

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (A-BSN) program of the California State University that is offered in their Stockton campus, is designed for people who hold a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing and are open to becoming registered nurses.

Added benefits of choosing the CA State Stanislaus UEE includes;

  • A rich tradition of perfection which is still followed till today
  • Serene environment for learning.
  • Course duration is 10-weeks, with a 17-month program completion time
  • Students are taught in a face-to-face situation with their respective teachers.
  • Laboratories and other clinical features are up-to-date.

COST OF PROGRAM

It cost a total of $40,000 for tuition fees that include ATI content Mastery Series and Lab fees. Some purchases are required but are not part of the tuition fee such as Lecture/Course Books, Uniforms, Laptops, Travel and Living Expenses, and Health insurance.

Financial Aid is available for this program to qualified applicants in the form of student loans. Students are eligible for up to $12,500 in federal student loans per academic year, based on eligibility.

REQUIREMENTS

To be evaluated, applicants must possess and have submitted the following applications before the deadline;

  • TEAS results must be sent from ATI to CA State Stanislaus UEE.
  • Official transcripts from each college or university attended after high school, including AP Scores if applicable, must be sent electronically to the e-mail of CA State Stanislaus. If your university does not have an electronic transcript option, please your transcripts in mails to

Stanislaus State

ATTN: Extended Education, MSR 180

One University Circle

Turlock, CA 95382.

For more information about this and other requirements you might need please click HERE

5.      CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, IRVINE

Formerly known as Christ College is a privately-owned Christian university and one of the nine colleges that are part of the Concordia University System.

For those who are holders of Bachelor’s degrees and are looking to transition into Nursing, the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (A-BSN) second-degree program offers a fast track to a new career.

Building on the foundations of the prior coursework, complete the A-BSN with hands-on experience, in as little as 15-months. In addition to classroom time, you will complete 785 hours in clinical settings throughout the program.

BENEFITS

The philosophy, objectives, and goals of Concordia University Irvine’s  Department of Nursing are congruent with;

  1. The Nurse Practice Act of California,
  2. Jean Watson’s philosophy of caring in nursing,
  3. The mission and goals of CUI and,
  4. The standards identified by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE),
  5. The American Association of Colleges of Nurses Essentials of Baccalaureate Education in Nursing,
  6. Quality and Safety Education for Nursing Competencies (QSEN).

COST OF PROGRAM

Concordia’s ABSN program allows you to pay for each course by unit rather than a fixed enrollment cost. Total tuition cost per semester is dependent upon the number of units in which you are enrolled. Plan approximately between $50,000 – $52,000 for the entire program—which includes tuition, books, uniforms, insurance, etc.). Financial Aid is also available.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

  • ABSN applicants must have completed a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in any discipline from a regionally accredited institution. Students will be able to transfer a maximum of seventy-five (75) units total from a previous degree, including pre-requisite courses.
  • The minimum required cumulative GPS is 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
  • All prerequisite classes must be completed with a “C” or better.
  • Submit an online application to the ABSN program with all supporting documents.
  • Admission interviews are required and are by invitation only. If the committee determines you have a strong application profile you will be contacted by email for your assigned schedule.

For this and much more information click HERE

6.      LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY

A Seventh-day Adventist organization comprising of eight schools that offers more than 100 programs. Its School of Nursing which came into existence in 1905 is its center dedicated to the nurturing of students aspiring to become Nurses. This center has been very instrumental in the tutelage of professional nurses, who have shown a great deal of professionalism while being dedicated to excellence.

The BS degree prepares students for professional nursing in acute and community settings. Students in this program will gain hands-on learning throughout the program and guarantee clinical placement across its seven partner facilities.

First-hand experience in diversified health care settings and expert-level simulation opportunities prepare students for a wide array of career opportunities. The School of Nursing may offer advance placement for those with an LVN.

COST OF PROGRAM

The Loma Linda School of Nursing has its payment structure divided according to the number of years the program is running for. To this end, the total fee for the 1st Semester is $39,142, the 2nd semester is $36,197, and finally for the 3rd Semester is $21,478.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum of college cumulative and prerequisite GPA of 3.0 for the regular track.
  • All prerequisites with a C or better
  • Application with personal essay
  • Official transcripts from all college credits
  • Pre-entrance exams (TEAS and Critical Thinking)
  • Three letters of recommendation (2 from instructors)
  • Completion of HS or equivalent.

For more information kindly click HERE 

7.      MOUNT SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY

Being Catholic University for women in the western U.S has the added advantage of making it a choice option for those who desire to run a Nursing career. However, the graduate and weekend programs have been for both men and women since their inception in 1925.

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing offered by the university is for those who are already holders of B.Scs from other fields of Science and Arts (or any other field). The A-BSN program has the same curriculum design as the Baccalaureate Nursing Program (BSN), it follows the stated philosophy, and students meet the terminal objectives as delineated for the Baccalaureate program.

PROGRAM COST

The total cost for the program is $27,784 which includes tuition, the Nursing fee (clinical), University Service Fee, etc.

REQUIREMENTS

The minimum requirements are as follows;

  • A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
  • 0 cumulative GPA
  • Completion of all prerequisite requirements with a grade of C or better.

For any other information please click HERE

8.      NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, LOS ANGELES

The National University is the largest non-profit private university in San Diego, founded in 1971, it still holds to date, an alumnus of 150,000 spread across the planet, who have successfully created strides in their chosen careers.

For those planning on having a career in Nursing through the Accelerated Bachelor in Science for Nursing (A-BSN) program of the university, it must be noted that this program is for those who already have obtained a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university within the United States or its equivalent abroad.

The program is tailored to develop caring, therapeutic nursing relationships with individuals, families, and groups. While the university provides safe, high-quality, culturally competent, patient-centered nursing care for individuals within the Nursing school.

COST OF PROGRAM

To get this information, please click HERE

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

  • A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
  • 0 cumulative GPA
  • Completion of all prerequisite requirements with a grade of C or better.

For more information click HERE

9.      SAMUEL MERRITT UNIVERSITY, OAKLAND

If you have earned a Bachelor’s degree in another field and wish to pursue a career in Nursing, SMU’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is the one for you. The fast-track format was designed to build upon your previous learning and professional experience, allowing you to complete your BSN in as little as 12 months.

This intensive short-term program is a mix that includes theoretical and clinical education, giving you both the knowledge and skills you need to transition into your new career.

COST OF PROGRAM

The cost of the program is shared in the following manner; 1st Semester $29,953; 2nd Semester $28,437; 3rd Semester $28,917; having a total of $87,306. There is also the option of financial aid.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution and a grade of ‘C’ or better in all prerequisites courses
  • A recommended minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester/90 quarter units coursework
  • A recommended minimum 3.0 GPA in the four science prerequisite courses.
  • Acceptable scores on the HESI A2 or TEAS
  • Two letters of recommendation, one from your faculty member, and the other from a health care professional.

For more information click HERE

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