Becoming a Registered Nurse in California

There are more registered nurses than there are practitioners in any other health field. That’s one reason that a prospective nurse finds herself with so many choices when it comes time to choose a degree program.

A registered nurse has more training and responsibility than a vocational nurse. There are multiple entry points, though, to the registered nursing field. One can enter with an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree. All programs provide a foundation in providing nursing care across the lifespan. Some provide additional coursework in public health and nursing leadership.

Those who are up for the challenge will find accelerated/ fast track options. Not all fast track options require a previous degree or license; some are just intensive year-round programs. The master’s option, on the other hand, is intended for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.

Approved California courses, both public and private, are listed on the Board of Registered Nursing site. Whichever route you choose, you will need to take the NCLEX exam before licensing.

California RN Education Pathways

In California, there are some alternate routes that are not available in all states. If you are already practicing as a vocational nurse, you can opt for the LVN 30 route. This is a state-approved career ladder program that can be completed in 18 to 24 months. The downside to the program is that it doesn’t grant a degree, and most other states don’t recognize it. In other words, you can practice as a registered nurse in California, but if you move, chances are that the state that you move to will only recognize you as being qualified for vocational nursing; you will need to complete a degree to practice again as an RN. The other alternative route is for corpsmen in the military who have equivalent levels of training.

Your career path depends on your age and educational background. Still in high school? The California Board of Registered Nursing lists steps to complete to make the process smoother. This entails taking rigorous college prep courses: four years of English, three to four years of math and (ideally) two years of foreign language.

Registered Nursing Career Outlook in California

Demand for RNs in California is expected to increase by 26% between 2008 and 2018, according to government figures. The AACN reports that economic conditions have had some impact on limiting hiring, but demographics should offset this in the long term. An aging population, and an aging RN workforce, means an increased demand for nursing graduates.

As in many parts of the country, job demand varies with setting. Some California facilities do experience a chronic vacancy rate of 10% or more. If you are committed to working in one of these facilities, you may even see your educational expenses paid.

The Application Process

According to CINHC, California’s nursing workforce center, the state’s schools are at capacity. This means that it takes more preparation to make oneself competitive. Until recently, legislation mandated that community colleges accept applicants without giving priority to those who had higher grades or test scores. The intent was to provide higher education for all students, even if they were from disadvantaged backgrounds. Unfortunately, there was a high attrition rate. Many students weren’t finishing programs. This didn’t help the state’s nursing shortage, and it didn’t help students. The focus has switched to selective admission, but also to providing support to students to help them meet the criteria.

Since California has such a high need for nurses, there are policies in place to ensure that those admitted have the academic aptitude and preparation to finish. State supported ADN programs have similar scholastic requirements. Your overall GPA matters, but your scores in English and biology courses are particularly important. If you have had to repeat biology courses, this can harm your chances.

Expect to take a nursing assessment test before admission. The Community College Chancellor’s Office currently recommends a score of 62.

ADN Programs Approved by the California Board of Nursing

Mount St. Mary’s College Department of Nursing

The school is approved by the California State Board of Registered Nursing. LVN Mobility Option (Allows student to take the National League for Nursing Mobility Exam. Students who score 75% or better may select to complete a BSN in three years. For those who score less, they may continue on to complete their ADN.

Programs Offered: ADN, LVN Mobility Option (LVN to ADN or LVN to BSN), BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, ADN to MSN

Mount St. Mary’s College Department of Nursing, 12001 Chalon Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90049-1599

BSN Programs Approved by the California State Board of Nursing