Best Registered Nursing Programs in Los Angeles California

Key Takeaways

• Los Angeles offers more than 20 accredited Registered Nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, and bridge pathways.
• Top programs are evaluated by NCLEX-RN pass rates, California BRN approval, tuition value, and hospital partnerships.
• Community colleges offer the most affordable ADN routes, while universities provide BSN programs with strong clinical networks.
• Competitive admission requires specific prerequisites, TEAS scores, and early application planning.
• Graduates in Los Angeles benefit from strong healthcare demand and access to major hospital systems.

How We Ranked the Best Registered Nursing Programs in Los Angeles

Choosing the right RN program in Los Angeles requires more than comparing tuition. Our 2025 ranking methodology focuses on measurable outcomes and real student value:

• California BRN Approval and Accreditation
• Recent NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
• Tuition and Total Program Cost
• Clinical Partnerships With LA Hospitals
• Student Support and Bridge Program Availability

All programs listed below meet California Board of Registered Nursing standards and prepare graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure.

Top Accredited RN Programs in Los Angeles (2025)

School Program Type Approx. Tuition Campus Location Highlights UCLA School of Nursing BSN, MSN Higher tier public tuition Westwood Elite reputation, research focus, major hospital affiliations Mount Saint Mary's University BSN Private tuition Los Angeles Women-centered education, strong NCLEX outcomes Cal State LA BSN, MSN Moderate public tuition East LA Diverse clinical placements, affordable CSU system Pasadena City College ADN Low community college cost Pasadena Affordable path, high NCLEX success East Los Angeles College ADN Low community college cost Monterey Park Strong student support, LVN-to-RN option

1. UCLA School of Nursing

UCLA consistently ranks among the top nursing schools nationwide. Its BSN program combines rigorous academics with clinical rotations at UCLA Medical Center and top Los Angeles healthcare institutions. Students benefit from research-driven faculty and advanced simulation labs.

This program is highly competitive and best suited for students with strong GPAs and leadership experience.

2. Mount Saint Mary's University

This private Catholic university offers one of the most recognized BSN programs in Los Angeles. Known for its consistently strong NCLEX pass rates, Mount Saint Mary's emphasizes small class sizes and personalized faculty mentorship.

3. California State University, Los Angeles

Cal State LA offers a respected and more affordable public university option. The BSN program includes diverse clinical placements across LA County hospitals, preparing graduates for urban and multicultural healthcare environments.

4. Pasadena City College

For students seeking affordability, Pasadena City College provides an excellent ADN pathway. Graduates can later complete an RN-to-BSN program to expand career options. The college maintains solid licensure pass rates and strong local hospital ties.

5. East Los Angeles College

East LA College offers both traditional ADN and LVN-to-RN pathways. It is known for accessible tuition, academic counseling, and preparation tailored to community healthcare needs.

ADN vs. BSN in Los Angeles: Which Path Is Right for You?

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

• Typically 2 to 3 years
• Offered primarily at community colleges
• Lower tuition cost
• Qualifies graduates to take NCLEX-RN

Ideal for students seeking a faster and more affordable entry into the workforce.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• 4-year traditional program
• Preferred by many Los Angeles hospitals
• Required for leadership and graduate study

In competitive hospital systems such as Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health, BSN-prepared nurses often receive hiring preference.

Bridge and Alternative Pathways

Los Angeles offers flexible routes for working healthcare professionals:

• LVN-to-RN Programs: Available at East LA College and other community colleges.
• RN-to-BSN Online Options: Designed for licensed RNs seeking advancement.
• Accelerated BSN Programs: For students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

Hybrid formats are increasingly available, combining online coursework with local clinical rotations.

Admission Requirements for LA RN Programs

Although each school varies, most require:

• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, microbiology, and physiology
• Minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.5
• TEAS exam scores
• Background check and immunization clearance

Application Timeline Strategy

Many Los Angeles programs admit once or twice per year. Begin prerequisites 1 to 2 years in advance and monitor school-specific deadlines carefully. Competitive schools may use point-based systems factoring GPA, test scores, and healthcare experience.

Clinical Rotations and Hospital Partnerships

One major advantage of studying in Los Angeles is proximity to leading healthcare employers. Top nursing schools partner with:

• UCLA Health
• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
• Kaiser Permanente
• Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
• LA County + USC Medical Center

Exposure to Level I trauma centers and diverse patient populations strengthens job readiness.

Tuition and Financial Aid in Los Angeles

Costs vary significantly:

• Community Colleges: Most affordable, often under a few thousand dollars in tuition for California residents.
• CSU System: Moderate public tuition.
• Private Universities: Higher tuition but may offer institutional scholarships.

Students should explore FAFSA eligibility, Cal Grants, hospital sponsorship programs, and workforce development scholarships.

Career Outlook for Registered Nurses in Los Angeles

California consistently ranks among the highest-paying states for registered nurses. In the Los Angeles metropolitan area, salaries are typically above the national average due to demand and cost of living.

RNs in Los Angeles work in:

• Acute care hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Public health agencies
• Home health services
• Specialty centers such as oncology and pediatrics

With ongoing demand driven by population growth and healthcare expansion, graduates of strong RN programs benefit from competitive employment opportunities.

How to Choose the Right RN Program for You

Before committing, ask the following:

• What is the program’s most recent NCLEX pass rate?
• Is it approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing?
• What are the total program costs, including fees and supplies?
• Where are clinical placements located?
• Do graduates secure employment within six months?

Attending information sessions and speaking with current students can provide valuable insights beyond published statistics.

Frequently Asked Questions about RN Programs in Los Angeles

Do you need a BSN to work as an RN in Los Angeles?

You do not need a BSN to become an RN in Los Angeles. An ADN from an accredited program also qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN. Many major LA hospitals, however, prefer or strongly favor BSN-prepared nurses for hiring and advancement.

How long does it take to become an RN in Los Angeles?

If you choose an ADN at a community college, you can usually finish in about 2 to 3 years, including prerequisites. A traditional BSN at a university typically takes 4 years. Accelerated BSN programs for students with a prior degree often take 12 to 18 months once admitted.

What are the basic admission requirements for LA RN programs?

Most RN programs in Los Angeles require science prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, a minimum GPA (often 2.5–3.5), TEAS exam scores, and proof of immunizations and background clearance. Some schools also consider healthcare experience or use a point-based system.

Are ADN programs in Los Angeles cheaper than BSN programs?

Yes. ADN programs at community colleges in Los Angeles usually have the lowest tuition, often just a few thousand dollars for California residents. BSN programs at CSU campuses have moderate public tuition, while private universities cost more but may offer scholarships and grants.

Can you bridge from LVN or ADN to a BSN in Los Angeles?

Yes. Several LA-area schools offer LVN-to-RN pathways and RN-to-BSN programs, including online and hybrid options. You can start with an ADN or LVN route at a community college, pass the NCLEX-RN, and then complete an RN-to-BSN program while you work.