Best BSN Programs in San Diego in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

The warm Pacific coastal city of San Diego is home to nearly 1.5 million people and some of the nation’s top research universities and nursing schools in San Diego. Residents have scenic beaches and renowned botanical parks just minutes from each other as well the Padres and the Chargers sports teams. San Diego offers a fulfilling lifestyle for everyone. Aspiring nursing professionals have many opportunities for education, employment, and advancement in the San Diego area. Graduates that have attended one of the BSN programs in San Diego earn an average of $89K per year. If you are looking for a rewarding and evolving career full of promise and opportunities for growth, nursing is the career for you. If you’re looking for great nursing schools in California, browse the schools that offer BSN programs in San Diego below to find a program that works for you.

Top BSN programs in San Diego in 2024

 1. San Diego State University

A public research university, San Diego State University offers a transformative experience for students. The SDSU School of Nursing is currently number one in serving Hispanic students. Students receive an evidence-based curriculum with experience in state of the art facilities and lab training. There are also opportunities for students to travel across the world as part of externships to better understand the health care needs of people everywhere. Graduates are among the leaders in healthcare across the state of California.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $7,084
• Graduation Rate: 66%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 25:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.3%

2. National University

Designed for adult learners, National University offers flexibility without sacrificing the quality of education. With on-campus and online options as well as unique one-month classes, students can earn their degrees faster than at a traditional university or college. With different paths to accommodate aspiring nursing students, more students finish and succeed with National University. Current RNs can also apply for an accelerated BSN program along with those who already have a bachelor’s degree but are seeking a career change to nursing by obtaining a BSN.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $13,016
• Graduation Rate: 15.3%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 89.6%

3. Point Loma Nazarene University

On the oceanfront of San Diego, Point Loma Nazarene University is a private liberal arts college with over a century of graduating alumni making a difference in the world. Point Loma’s mission to provide whole-person development is evident in the experiences students receive in the school of nursing. Students are taught and trained to have compassion, humble strength, and spiritual understanding of their role as a nursing professional. Students can enter the BSN program either from the beginning, as an LVN, or an RN. Advanced degrees are also available from Point Loma.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $33,500
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.7%

4. Azusa Pacific University

A private, evangelical Christian University, Azusa Pacific University has been educating the community for over a century. Azusa offers 8 SoCal locations as well as online options for students to earn their degrees without sacrificing the quality of education and mentoring from leaders in their field. APU’s nursing school is nationally ranked and continues to lead the way in providing compassionate healthcare providers in hospitals, clinics, schools and more. Whether you are a new student or seeking to advance your career in nursing, APU has a BSN path to fit your needs.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $36,120
• Graduation Rate: 67%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83%

5. San Diego City College

San Diego City College‘s faculty members are leaders in their field of practice and in the community. SDCC’s Nursing Education Program is one of the best ADN nursing programs in the state. Fully accredited by the ACEN, San Diego City College recognizes that nursing encompasses many aspects including but not limited to health promotion, health maintenance, and health care during illness or injury. Graduates are well educated and skilled to practice in a variety of health care settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices, clinics, and schools.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $1,144
• Graduation Rate: 89%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 24:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.46%

Methodology

The nursing shortage has lasted longer than previously thought and the need for well-educated and skilled nursing practitioners is greater than ever. As a result, the average salary continues to be very generous for those holding a BSN degree. Those who attend one of the BSN programs in San Diego will have opportunities to participate in internships and clinical experiences in local hospitals and clinics. Networking with local professionals through these experiences will increase graduates’ opportunities for immediate placement upon graduation.

BSN programs are ranked according to a matrix including cost, graduation rate, and NCLEX-RN pass rate. Find a program that fits your needs and apply today.

Please contact us if you want to include your college or university in our rankings.