masters entry nursing programs san diego

(Major Code: 12032)

In addition to meeting the requirements for classified graduate standing and the basic requirements for the master’s degree, as described in Requirements for Master’s Degrees   , the student must complete an officially approved 36-58 unit course of study. The program includes:

• Eleven units of core courses to include NURS 604   , NURS 608   , NURS 622   , and NURS 684   .
• A minimum of 18-45 units of graduate courses in the area of concentration or specialization.
• Zero to six units of electives.
• NURS 799A   , Thesis, OR Plan B Option, Comprehensive Examination, NURS 798    (see below).

Students in all concentrations may choose between Plan A, Thesis or Project, or Plan B, Comprehensive Examination or Comprehensive Evidence-based change project. The choice of Plan A or Plan B should be made early in the program. Students should consult with the concentration chair for current policies. Up to 12 semester units may be accepted in transfer from an accredited School of Nursing.

Advancement to Candidacy

All students must satisfy the general requirements for advancement to candidacy as described in Requirements for Master’s Degrees   . Students must satisfactorily complete at least 12 units of nursing courses listed on the official program of study with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and be recommended by the graduate adviser.

11 Best Nursing Schools in San Diego – 2024

5 REASONS WHY SAN DIEGO IS A GREAT PLACE TO PURSUE A DEGREE IN NURSING

What types of undergraduate programs are offered by nursing schools in san diego.

WHAT TYPES OF GRADUATE PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED BY NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO?

HOW LONG DO UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO TAKE?

• Southwestern College- Chula Vista offers an undergraduate associate nursing degree that can be completed in two years . • San Diego State University’s RN to BSN program can be completed in as few as 12-15 months . • Point Loma Nazarene University offers a traditional BSN program that takes four years to complete.

HOW LONG DO GRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO TAKE?

• United States University- Chula Vista’s MSN programs can be completed in 12 or 24 months, depending on your chosen specialty and whether you choose a traditional or accelerated study plan. • The University of San Diego’s Master's Entry program is a five-semester or 21-month program. • National University’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) can be completed in three years of full-time study.

HOW MUCH DO UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO COST?

• Tuition for the nursing programs at National University is calculated at a rate of $388 per unit of credit. The program requires 92 units of credit, making the average cost of the BSN program $35,696. • At Southwestern College , the Associate of Science degree in Nursing costs between $8,474 and $8,997. • The ADN program at Grossmont College costs approximately $5,800.00 . This tuition is based on the current tuition rate of $46 per unit and includes parking permits, health fees, immunizations, and hospital requirements.

HOW MUCH DO GRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO COST?

• Point Loma Nazarene University’s nursing programs cost $820 per unit. For example, the Master of Science in Nursing program at PLNU requires 37 to 50 units of credit to graduate, depending on your entry point and choice of concentration. With this rate, tuition for the MSN program ranges from $30,340 to $41,000 . • United States University offers three pathways for students who wish to pursue a graduate nursing degree. The MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner program costs $32,230 . The Healthcare Leadership and Nurse Educator specialty concentrations cost $12,350 each. These prices include student fees. • Tuition at the University of San Diego’s MSN program is approximately $68,880, an average of $1,640 per unit. The Ph.D. program costs $80,640.

WHO ACCREDITS NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO?

1. Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing (ACEN) : The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is the leading authority for nursing education accreditation. The ACEN provides accreditation for all levels of nursing education and supports transition-to-practice programs. 2. Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) : The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is recognized as a national accreditation agency by the United States Secretary of Education. The CCNE contributes to the improvement of public health and promotes the quality of baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs and nursing residencies and fellowships. 3. Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) : The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs accredits nurse anesthesia programs that offer master's and doctoral degrees. The COA offers the CRNA School Search, an online database with information about accredited nurse anesthesia programs in the United States. 4. Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) : The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education works to ensure midwifery programs provide a high-quality learning experience for nurses who wish to pursue careers as midwives. The ACME is recognized by the United States Department of Education as a national accrediting agency for nurse-midwifery and midwife education programs.

WHAT ARE THE BEST NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO (CALIFORNIA) FOR 2024?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology , the following are the best-accredited nursing schools in San Diego, California.)

1. San Diego State University

About The Nursing School:

Key highlights about this nursing school, undergraduate programs offered:.

Graduate Programs Offered:

2. University of San Diego

Certificate Programs Offered:

3. Point Loma Nazarene University

4. National University

5. California State University-San Marcos - San Marcos

6. United States University - Chula Vista

7. San Diego Community College

8. Southwestern College - Chula Vista

9. Grossmont College - El Cajon

10. Palomar College - San Marcos

11. MiraCosta College - Oceanside

WHAT ARE THE TOP ORGANIZATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS FOR NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

1. san diego black nurses association :, 2. aorn of san diego county :, 3. san diego national association of hispanic nurses :, important career information for undergraduate nurses in san deigo, california, how many undergraduate nurses are there in san diego.

WHERE DO UNDERGRADUATE NURSES WORK IN SAN DIEGO?

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL WORK SCHEDULE AND WORK HOURS FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

What is the job outlook for undergraduate nurses in san diego.

WHAT IS THE STARTING SALARY FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY BY LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO

UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN CALIFORNIA

UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN THE NATION

UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN SAN DIEGO

IMPORTANT CAREER INFORMATION FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DEIGO, CALIFORNIA

How many graduate nurses are there in san diego.

WHERE DO GRADUATE NURSES WORK IN SAN DIEGO?

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL WORK SCHEDULE AND WORK HOURS FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

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WHAT IS THE STARTING SALARY FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY BY LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN CALIFORNIA

GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN THE NATION

GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN SAN DIEGO

MY FINAL THOUGHTS – IS BECOMING A NURSE IN SAN DIEGO WORTH IT?

Frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. which is the best nursing school in san diego.

2. Which School Offers The Best ADN Program In San Diego?

3. which school offers the best bsn program in san diego, 4. which school offers the best msn program in san diego, 5. which school offers the best dnp program in san diego, 6. which is the highest paid nurse in san diego.

7. Which Is The Lowest Paid Nurse In San Diego?

8. How Much Does An Entry-Level Registered Nurse Make In San Diego?

9. How Much Does An Entry-Level Nurse Practitioner Make In San Diego?

10. On Average, How Much Does A Registered Nurse Make In San Diego?

11. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Practitioner Make In San Diego?

12. Which Nurse Has The Highest Job Outlook In San Diego?

13. Which Nurse Has The Lowest Job Outlook In San Diego?

14. Which Hospitals Hire The Most Number Of Nurses In San Diego?

15. Which Nursing Homes Hire The Most Number Of Nurses In San Diego?

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• Entry-Level Master’s in Nursing (ELM)

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Program at a Glance

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Application Deadline

• Spring Semester: September 15
• Summer Semester: January 15
• Fall Semester: May 15

Program Information

• Program Units: 106-129
• Cost per Unit: $860
• Base Cost: $91,160-$110,940*
• Inland Empire, Monrovia, San Diego

Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

Earn an Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing (ELM) Degree at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll graduate prepared to enter professional nursing and advanced practice roles. We’ll help you open doors in the medical field and graduate ready to pass the NCLEX licensure examination to become an RN, gain qualifications to apply to the State of California for certification as a clinical nurse specialist and/or nurse practitioner, and obtain eligibility for the Public Health Nursing Certificate. You’ll build first-hand experience during your clinical residency—equipped for success in your nursing career. This program is designed for students who hold baccalaureate or high degrees in other disciplines.

See Admission Requirements

Gain Hands-on Experience

• Provide hospital care for diverse groups, the underserved, the poor, and the homeless during clinicals.
• Receive personalized attention in a supportive Christian environment.
• Learn from faculty experienced in the nursing field. 
• Build the knowledge and experience needed to pass the NCLEX exam.

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Program Details

The Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing is an accelerated graduate nursing program designed for students who desire to enter the nursing profession and hold a baccalaureate or higher degree in other disciplines. During their first four semesters, admitted students complete all prelicensure courses (theoretical and clinical) in an accelerated format, as well as selected graduate nursing courses, followed by a clinical residency, in preparation for the RN licensure examination. Students then continue with courses and preparation leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the  Student Services Center  page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

Transfer Guideline

Which of my courses will count as ELM program prerequisites?

The prerequisites will generally fit the following guidelines:

• Human Anatomy and lab   (4 semester units): May also be titled “Intro to Anatomy”
• Human Physiology and lab   (4 semester units): May also be titled “Intro to Physiology.” You can also take “Human Anatomy and Physiology” but it must be   both   parts for a total of 8 semester units. Both parts must come from the same university/college.
• Organic Chemistry and lab   (3 semester units): The course description should explicity state that organic chemistry is covered, so many “General Chemistry” classes will   not   fulfill this requirement (and in fact are often prerequisites for organic and biochemistry classes).
• Biochemistry   (1 semester unit): You can take a full biochemistry class (generally worth 3 to 5 units), or you may combine this prerequisite course with the Organic Chemistry class. If combined, the Organic Chemistry class must be worth 4 semester units, and the course description needs to explicitly state that biochemistry is covered.
• Microbiology and lab   (4 semester units): Acceptable courses are usually titled “Microbiology,” “General Microbiology,” or “Intro to Microbiology.”
• Verbal Communication Skills   (3 semester units): Acceptable courses are usually titled “Public Communication,” “Speech 101,” or “Intro to Public Speaking.” The course description must explicitly state that students regularly practice public speaking in front of the class. Online courses will not cover this requirement, and many communication courses that do not involve frequent public speaking, such as “Interpersonal Communication” or “History of Mass Communication,” will not fulfill this requirement.
• Written Communication Skills   (3 semester units): Acceptable courses are usually titled “Freshman Writing Seminar” or “Intro to Composition.” A literature class will not fulfill this requirement. AP English scores from high school that were used as transfer units for your bachelor's degree may complete this requirement.
• General Psychology   (3 semester units): May also be titled “Intro to Psychology.” We are looking for a broad foundation in psychology, so specific courses like “Abnormal Psych” or “Psychology of Sexuality” will not fulfill this requirement. AP Psychology scores from high school that were used as transfer units for your bachelor's degree may complete this requirement.
• Human Growth and Development   (3 semester units): If your college does not offer a class titled “Human Growth and Development,” it is probably called “Lifespan.” “Developmental Psychology”   may   fulfill the requirement if the course description explicitly states that the entire lifespan is covered. Classes that focus on one piece of the lifespan, such as “Child Psychology” or “The Psychology of Aging” will not fulfill this requirement. “Sociology of Life” classes will not fulfill this requirement.
• Statistics   (3 semester units): We can accept a field-specific statistics class. AP Statistic scores from high school that were used as transfer units for your bachelor’s degree may complete this requirement.
• Research Methods   (3 semester units): This class will usually be found in the behavioral science department, such as “Research Methods in Psychology” or “Research Methods in Sociology.” The course description must explicitly state that the ethics of research are discussed and that the research methodologies are covered. Experimental methods or bench research courses do not fulfill this requirement.

After studying the list, if you have questions about your prerequisite courses and whether they will count toward your ELM, refer to our   Transfer Guidelines .

Remember, your application for the ELM program cannot be moved forward for admission consideration until you have completed all prerequisite courses.

Admission Requirements—Domestic Applicants

The   university graduate   and program admission requirements below must be met before an application is considered complete.

Students must first apply and be admitted to graduate status at the university before being considered for admission to the School of Nursing graduate programs, including ELM and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

• Graduate application for admission
• $45 nonrefundable application fee

An official transcript is one that Azusa Pacific University receives unopened in an envelope sealed by the former institution and that bears the official seal of the college or university. A cumulative minimum 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) grade-point average on the posted degree is required for regular admission status. Provisional admittance may be granted to individuals with a lower GPA if competency can be shown through multiple measures.

Transcripts should show completion of prerequisite courses (in expected semester units):

• Sciences: human anatomy and lab (4 units), human physiology and lab (4 units), biochemistry (1 unit), organic chemistry and lab (3 units), general microbiology and lab (4 units) (Biochemistry and organic chemistry may be combined in one 4-unit class.)
• Nonsciences: communication skills—verbal (3 units) and written (3 units), general psychology (3 units), human growth and development (lifespan) (3 units), statistics (3 units), and a research methods course in any behavioral science field (3 units)
• Successfully complete prerequisite requirements   including General Microbiology with lab (4 units); Human Anatomy with lab (4 units); Human Physiology with lab (4 units); and General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry for the Health Sciences (4 units) with no lower than an overall 3.0   (B)   grade-point average.
• If you have questions regarding specific prerequisite courses, please refer to the   Frequently Asked Questions tab below .

Any applicant submitting international (non-U.S.) transcripts must submit both an official, comprehensive transcript evaluation report from one of APU’s approved agencies (list is available from Graduate and Professional Admissions) and a copy of the international transcripts themselves (translated into English, if necessary).

• Two recommendations , from professional or academic (work or school) sources, submitted through the online application
• Why you are applying to the Azusa Pacific University ELM program.
• Your motivations for pursuing nursing at this time in your life, including relevant background experiences and why you are choosing nursing over other healthcare professions.
• Any professional or volunteer experiences you have related to nursing.
• Brief background information which would help someone get to know you as a unique person.
• Brief discussion of professional goals.
• Résumé or statement of experience
• For applicants who are U.S. permanent residents, submit a photocopy of your green card . If you have applied for a green card but have not yet received it, you will need to apply through APU’s International Center. Please see “Admission Requirements—International Applicants” below.

Send official transcripts to:

Application deadlines.

Note that all deadlines refer to the date   Graduate and Professional Admissions   receives your   complete   application package. This is   not   a postmark deadline.

Admitted students will be required to submit a $500 nonrefundable admissions deposit within a week to hold their spot in the cohort.

Admission Requirements—International Applicants

Azusa Pacific University is authorized under federal law by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services and the U.S. Department of State to enroll nonimmigrant, alien undergraduate and graduate students. APU issues and administers both the I-20 and DS 2019 (F-1 and J-1 status documents respectively).

To apply for a graduate program at APU, the following requirements must be fulfilled in addition to meeting the domestic applicant and   program-specific admission requirements   specified above.

International applicants must also:

• Demonstrate proficiency in English   through a placement test with the   Academic Success Center , or through a TOEFL/IELTS score that meets program-specific requirements. Refer to APU’s   English proficiency requirements   to learn more. Request that official test scores be sent to APU. All other forms of proof indicated in the English proficiency requirements must be submitted directly to International Services.
• Provide a   Graduate Affidavit of Financial Support (PDF)   and a bank statement   from within the last six months proving financial ability to pay for education costs through personal, family, or sponsor resources.
• Submit a copy of a valid passport   showing biographical data, including your name, country of citizenship, date of birth, and other legal information.
• Get foreign transcripts evaluated.   International credentials (transcripts, certificates, diplomas, and degrees) must be evaluated by a foreign transcript evaluation agency. View our policy and a list of approved   Foreign Transcript Evaluation Agencies .

What to Expect

After all admission materials have been received by the   Student Services Center , the faculty or department chair reviews the applicant’s file. The applicant is notified in writing of the admission decision.

Many financial aid options are available to make your   entry level nursing   degree affordable.

Delivering high quality graduate programs takes a comprehensive support system. Your investment in an advanced degree includes those services and personnel that partner with you in pursuit of higher education. Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees associated with the benefits and services included in your degree program.

School of Nursing Fees

Nursing courses may require additional fees. View a complete list of   university fees .

All stated financial information is subject to change. Contact   Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020 for more information.

Several types of   financial aid   are available to graduate students. The resources range from federal loans and state grants to, for some graduate programs, fellowships and scholarships. For details about financial aid available for your program, please contact the   Student Services Center   at   (626) 815-2020 .

Military Benefits

Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for   financial assistance   covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.

Program-Specific Aid

For more details on these scholarships and funding opportunities, as well as other possible resources, please contact the   School of Nursing   at   (626) 815-5386 .

Nurse Faculty Loan Program

The Nurse Faculty Loan Program is a government loan program set up to increase the number of qualified nursing faculty by providing loans to students in advanced nursing education programs. Students must be pursuing a MSN or doctoral nursing degree. The NFLP loans will be forgiven—up to 85 percent of the amount received—over a consecutive four-year period if the student commits to serve as full-time faculty at a school of nursing following graduation. Faculty at private universities, state schools, and community colleges are eligible. Students receiving these loans must also complete the nursing education courses prior to graduation.

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Program Requirements

At the beginning of clinical coursework, including health assessment labs, the student is required to provide documentation concerning CPR certification, malpractice insurance, TB screening, and immunizations appropriate to the clinical setting.

The student’s health status must permit him/her to safely undertake and complete clinical experience required for the   entry level nursing   degree.

As a fully prepared health professional, the student is expected to take responsibility for self-evaluation of her/his own health status, including an assessment of the safety and appropriateness of practice in the clinical context, both for the student and the patient. An individual faculty member may require documentation of the student’s health status.

In light of recent statements from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and contracted facilities, the School of Nursing now requires that all undergraduate and graduate students undergo a background check prior to their involvement at clinical sites. The cost of the background check is the responsibility of the student.

Note: International students are required to pay the additional fee based upon the actual costs of background checks for their country.

All students are expected to read, understand, and adhere to the policies and requirements articulated in the Second Degree and MSN Handbook.

How long is a term?

Fall and spring terms are 16 weeks. Summer terms are 12 weeks.

How many evenings per week do I attend classes?

Lecture classes and clinicals vary and may be offered Monday through Saturday, days and evenings.

Are scholarships available?

Several types of   financial aid   are available to students, including scholarships. However, most nursing students fund their education through federal loans.

How often is this program offered?

Students may start the program three times a year (September, January, and May) at the main campus in Azusa, and the   Inland Empire or San Diego Regional Campuses .

Whom do I contact if I have more questions?

For general graduate or professional admissions questions, contact the   Student Services Center (SSC)   comprised of   Graduate and Professional Admissions , the   Graduate and Professional Registrar , and   Graduate and Professional Student Financial Services . The main phone number is (626) 815-2020.

For questions regarding the ELM program, contact your regional campus program manager.

If you have questions, we’re here to help! Connect with a representative who can walk you through the program details and application process.

Contact Your Admissions Representative

School of Nursing

(626) 815-5386

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (voicemail messages left will be addressed on the next business day)

Student Services Center

Contact (626) 812-3016  or [email protected] , and visit  apu.edu/ssc  for details on the admissions process, financial aid, and class registration.

International Services

International students should contact +1-626-812-3055 or  [email protected] , and visit  apu.edu/international/ .

• Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). 
• The baccalaureate degree in nursing, master’s degree in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice at Azusa Pacific University are accredited by the  Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education . 
• The traditional baccalaureate nursing program, upper-division transfer (2+2/LVN to BSN) programs, entry-level master’s program, and the nurse practitioner program are approved by the  California Board of Registered Nursing .

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California Entry-Level Master’s in Nursing Programs

Written by Jessica White

Community Mental Health Worker & Case Manager

If you have a bachelor’s degree and are interested in the medical field, an entry-level master’s degree in nursing may be for you. This degree program is a great way to become involved in the nursing profession at an advanced level after graduation. Having a master’s degree may lead to higher income and the chance to take on leadership roles within an organization, which can allow you to make a big difference for both organizations and patients.

Those who enroll in an entry-level MSN program will qualify to take the NCLEX licensing exam to become a registered nurse (RN). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual income for RN’s in the US is $77,600. O*Net Online reports that RN’s in California make a median annual wage of $81,220, with a projected job growth of 4-7%. This degree may lead to roles in management or leadership as well, which may result in an even higher income.

Registered nurses perform a number of duties, including:

• Observing, assessing, and recording patients
• Perform diagnostic tests
• Operate medical equipment
• Administer treatment such as medication
• Provide information on care post-treatment
• Educate patients on health

Choosing what school to attend can be an important decision. An accredited university can make a big difference, both for the quality of education you receive and the job opportunities you have in the long run. Employers typically prefer to hire individuals who received their degree from an accredited institution. Accrediting organizations are responsible for assessing universities and other educational institutions for quality within their programs. By attending an accredited institution, you are more likely to receive an education that prepares you for your career and your future career. The two main accrediting origanizations for nursing students in the US are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The CCNE works to accredit bachelor’s and graduate-level nursing programs, and the ACEN accredits nursing programs at all levels.

Below is an overview of universities in California that offer an entry-level master’s degree in nursing.

University of California – Los Angeles

The entry master of science in nursing at UCLA prepares students for various careers such as working in public health, becoming a clinical nurse leader, or working as a registered nurse. The program takes two years to complete, which includes summers. After completing the program, students Will be prepared to take the National Council Licensing Examination and will qualify to become a registered nurse. Some students will also be able to receive a public health nursing certification, if desired. The entry-level MSN program at UCLA is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

University of California – Irvine

The Sue and Bill Gross School of Nursing at UC Irvine has an entry level masters degree in nursing that takes two years of full-time study to complete. This accelerated program helps students learn the foundation of nursing practice so that they can become registered nurses. Students will be able to apply their knowledge to simulations and will build leadership skills. There is a Community and Population Health concentration as well. The program is 84 units total. UC Irvine’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

University of San Diego

The Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science at USD offers a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) It’s available for anyone with an undergraduate degree in something other than nursing period This program is hands-on, and students participate in a variety of simulations in the simulation center on campus. The program is 21 months total, and in that time, students will complete 71 units. This includes in classroom courses, labs, and a practicum. University of San Diego’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Western University of Health Sciences

Western University’s MSN entry program is intended for students who have an undergraduate in another subject besides nursing to earn their masters degree in two years. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to earn a registered nurse license. This program is completed generally in six semesters of full-time study. Courses are offered on campus. Courses and practicum well prepare students to take the NCLEX licensing exam. This program follows the standards of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses ( AACN ). Western University’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

California Baptist University

At CBU, the entry Masters of science in nursing is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who want to become registered nurses. Once students have completed the required prerequisite courses , they can then apply for this program. Pantry level nursing program consists of 102 to 108 units, and takes 10 or 11 semesters to complete. There are three concentrations to choose from within the program: Nurse Educator, Nursing Informatics, and Nursing Organizational Leadership. California Baptist University’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Azusa Pacific University

The ELM program at APU prepares students to take their clinical exam to become a nurse specialist or nurse practitioner. The program is 108 to 120 units. Students typically complete this in four semesters in addition to a clinical residency. It is required that students take this program full-time. The program is accredited by the CCNE , BRN , and WSCUC . Azusa Pacific University is a faith-based, Christian University. The entry-level MSN degree program at Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Board of Registered Nursing.

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

The university’s entry level Master of science and nursing includes courses that teach knowledge to help students become licensed as a registered nurse. They can also apply for a Public Health nurse certificate as well after graduating. This program is 81 credits and takes two years to complete. In the program, students will receive hands-on experience through a variety of learning activities. Students will take part in courses That will teach theory, proper research, and more. You’re the end of the program, students will take part in a clinical experience where they will apply their knowledge. The entry-level MSN program at Charles R. Drew University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University educates students in evidence-based nursing so they can earn a master’s degree through the entry level nursing program. This program offers a concentration in Population Health. In order to enroll in this program, a student should have earned a 3.3 GPA in their bachelorette program. Along with the other admission requirements , a student should also have volunteer or work experience within a health care setting no. Students will complete approximately 113 units within this program. Loma Linda University’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

University of California – Davis

The entry-level MSN degree program allows students who have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline receive a registered nursing license at a faster rate. This highly rated program educates students on contemporary nursing practices so they can handle real-world, modern situations. This program is unique because students begin working with patients within their first quarter alongside their classroom courses. To graduate, students must complete 92 units. UC Davis’s entry-level MSN degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

University of San Francisco

USF’s entry-level master’s of nursing program equips students with a number of skills needed to become a registered nurse, including patient safety and advocacy, care coordination, health promotion, data analysis, and more. The program is 68 units and takes two years of full-time enrollment to complete. Students will also take part in 1000+ internship hours. There are multiple pre-requisites a student must complete, such as in psychology, statistics, microbiology, physiology, anatomy, and English. University of San Francisco’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

San Francisco State University

SFSU’s entry-level MSN takes six semesters (or three years) to complete. After the completion of four semesters, students are able to take the NCLEX registered nursing clinical exam to earn an RN license. Once the program is completed, students will have earned a bachelor’s of science in nursing as well as a master’s. The program is 95 units. There are several specializations to choose from, including:

• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nursing Administration
• Public/Community Health

The SFSU’s entry-level MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Samuel Merritt University

SMU’s entry-level MSN program prepares students to earn their nursing degree in one of two specializations: Family Nurse Practitioner and Case Management. Students can attend this university at either their Oakland or Sacramento location. The program is 39 months (10 semesters) long for a total of 109 semester units, and students are required to enroll full-time, at least for the first four semesters. The entry-level MSN program at Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

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College of Nursing

Faculty profile: julie vignato.

Growing up in a household where education and healthcare were always present, it was almost a given that  Julie Vignato would be drawn to both nursing and teaching. With a mother who was an English teacher and a grandmother who worked as a nurse, her path into these fields seemed only natural.

After graduating from high school, Vignato attended the University of Rochester in New York to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. During this time, she received a Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship, which took her to a naval medical center in Portsmouth, Virginia. Then, she was stationed in Puerto Rico and Italy, caring for patients from the "cradle to the grave."  

"It's unique to not specialize in nursing," Vignato says. "I could have a laboring patient and then take care of a child with an asthma exacerbation, and then, an older gentleman with a prostate issue," Vignato further explains.  

"So, I'd walk into all these different rooms and cross specialties, but I loved it."  

After her experience in the military, she faced a career crossroads. "I had young children at the time, and I was thinking nurse practitioner or research," she explains. "But I went the research route because I wanted to spend some more time with my young children."    

Vignato received her PhD from the University of San Diego College of Nursing, and after completing her degree she worked in higher education in southern California.   

Her family's move to Iowa came unexpectedly, driven by her husband's job opportunity. Despite having no connections to the area, she embraced the new environment and became a post-   doctoral fellow and lecturer at the University of Iowa College of Nursing.  

Today, Vignato is an assistant professor at the college with a body of research that focuses on perinatal mental health and pain during pregnancy. She also enjoys sharing her love of nursing research with her undergraduate students.   

"It takes somebody who likes to ask questions, who can critically think outside the box and challenge the status quo," Vignato advises. "And then it's going to take just a little bit of effort and perseverance to push through," she continues, "but once you do, it's so incredibly rewarding."  

This year, Vignato is focusing on addressing maternal health disparities through the Community Doulas of Johnson County, a doula outreach program managed through the UI College of Nursing, Johnson County Public Health, and University of Iowa Health Care. 

According to the  American Pregnancy Association , a doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to expectant mothers during pregnancy, labor, and the post-birth period. Their goal is to ensure a safe, memorable, and empowering birthing experience.  

Vignato explains that the program has trained ten Black and Latinx women from low-income, underserved communities in Johnson County—a population often overlooked.   

She emphasizes the significance of addressing health disparities, noting that "the Black maternal mortality rate has been six times higher than that of white women, and for Latinas, it's two times higher."   

Vignato hopes the program will significantly impact the community by preventing adverse outcomes for mothers and babies who might not otherwise receive this level of support. "If you can prevent bad outcomes for mom and baby in 50 women that normally would not have this kind of support, you may be able to prevent chronic conditions for both that may occur later in life," she says.  

The program also encourages doulas to obtain business licenses and aims to gather data to support future legislation for Medicaid reimbursement of doula services in Iowa. "It's already happened in eight states and the District of Columbia," Vignato adds, mentioning ongoing efforts at both the state and national levels to expand this initiative.  

In the long term, Vignato envisions the program expanding to other areas in the state with large, underserved populations, provided they can secure additional funding. She is passionate about empowering these communities to care for their moms and babies, praising the doulas' quiet confidence and dedication to their hard work.   

"It is incredible. You need to come and meet our doulas and just see how great and wonderful they are at supporting others," she says.