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Comparison of CA University Systems

Cal States (CSUs)

Main Facts:

  • Extremely competitive 

    • Extremely limited capacity​

    • Need strong GPA & TEAS score

  • Local area preference

  • Cheaper than UCs & Privates

  • Some schools take Spring applicants

Which campuses offer Nursing?

There are 20 campuses:

CSU Dominguez Hills, Chico, San Marcos, Los Angeles, Fullerton, Long Beach, Fresno, Stanislaus, San Bernardino, San Diego, Sacramento, San Jose, Sonoma, Northridge, East Bay, San Francisco, Bakersfield, and Channel Island

How to apply:

Through CSU Apply, but some campuses require using NursingCAS to apply for their BSN program!

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University of California (UCs)

Main Facts:

  • Very research-oriented

  • Hardest to get into

  • UCLA is a 3-year program

  • Longer application

  • Have a more holistic approach

  • Applications for Fall only

What campuses offer nursing?

Only two UC campuses that offer nursing for undergrads: UCLA & UCI

Postgrad: UCSF & UCD 

 

How to apply:

Through UC apply, but UCLA also has a supplemental application due in January

Community Colleges

Main Facts: 

  • Cheapest option

  • Smaller class sizes

  • Easier access and multiple entry points

  • More programs

Which campuses offer nursing?

There are a lot! See these link to see programs & details! 

https://www.rn.ca.gov/education/rnprograms.shtml

https://icangotocollege.com/college-courses/02239-nursing

Privates

Main Facts:

  • Rolling admissions

  • More open seats

  • Tend to be easier in acceptance

  • Have accelerated options

  • Expensive tuition (can be $40k–$70k/year)

What campuses offer nursing?

Samuel Merritt, University of San Francisco, Azusa Pacific, Dominican, Mount Saint Mary’s (there are more campuses, look in the links below!)

How to apply:

Each school has a different application, so make sure to do your research!

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