Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at California State University is a comprehensive and highly regarded program designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in the healthcare industry. This program provides students with a solid foundation in the core areas of nursing practice, including health assessment, nursing theory, pharmacology, community health, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and effective communication skills necessary for providing high-quality patient care across diverse settings.

Throughout the program, students engage in a combination of rigorous classroom instruction, laboratory work, and immersive clinical experiences. These clinical practicums are conducted in various healthcare environments such as hospitals, community clinics, and long-term care facilities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced nursing professionals. The program also encourages student participation in research projects and interprofessional collaborations to foster a holistic understanding of healthcare delivery systems.

California State University’s nursing program is committed to cultivating culturally competent nurses who are equipped to address the complex healthcare needs of diverse populations. Students learn to prioritize patient safety, ethical considerations, and compassionate care while adhering to the latest standards and practices in nursing. The program prepares graduates not only for successful licensure as registered nurses but also for advanced education and leadership roles in healthcare.

In addition to traditional coursework, students have access to cutting-edge simulation labs, online learning resources, and opportunities for community engagement. The university’s strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities ensure students are exposed to a variety of clinical experiences that enhance their practical skills. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam and pursue further specialization or graduate studies such as Nursing Master’s or Doctoral programs.

With a dedicated faculty team comprised of experienced clinicians and researchers, California State University’s Nursing Program fosters an environment of academic excellence, practical skill development, and professional readiness. By choosing this program, students commit to a fulfilling career dedicated to improving health outcomes and making a meaningful difference in their communities.

BIOL 210 Anatomy and Physiology I (4)

BIOL 211 Anatomy and Physiology II (4)

BIOL 217 Medical Microbiology (4)

CHEM 110 Chemistry of Life (4) (Or Organic, Inorganic, or General Chemistry with associated labs)

COMM 101 Public Speaking (3)

ENGL 105 Composition Rhetoric (3)

BIO 203 (Statistics)

Completion of Critical Thinking requirement

International Freshmen Checklist  

International Transfer Checklist 

Financial Affidavit for Undergraduate applicants 

Submit all application documents to the Center for International Affairs. 

*Transfer Students: We are currently accepting applications from all community colleges in the U.S.  Please make sure that you have at least 60 units and have completed “Oral communication”, “Written communication”, “Critical thinking” and “College level mathematics/quantitative reasoning” with “C” or better.  Please note that the Nursing programs are closed for international students.  

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The nursing program at California State University offers various financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Prospective students can explore federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The university encourages in-state residents to take advantage of state-sponsored grant programs and scholarships designed to reduce the financial burden of nursing education. Additionally, California State University provides institutional scholarships specifically for nursing students based on academic performance, financial need, and leadership qualities. Students may also explore external scholarship opportunities from professional nursing organizations, healthcare institutions, and community foundations that support nursing education. Work-study programs are available on campus, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income to offset educational expenses. The university’s financial aid office offers counseling and resources to help students understand their funding options, apply for aid, and plan their finances effectively. Payment plans are also available, enabling students to distribute tuition payments over the semester to make expenses more manageable. For military personnel and veterans, California State University provides assistance through the Yellow Ribbon Program and other veteran-specific benefits, which can significantly reduce educational costs. Graduates of the program should also consider loan forgiveness programs available for nurses practicing in underserved areas, which can further alleviate financial challenges associated with nursing education. Overall, the university strives to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent qualified students from pursuing a career in nursing by offering comprehensive support and multiple financing avenues.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at California State University is designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice in various healthcare settings. The program emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are equipped to provide high-quality patient care. Students engage in coursework covering anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, psychology, and nursing theory, alongside clinical practice hours in hospitals, clinics, and community health agencies. The program adheres to state and national accreditation standards, such as those set by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring rigorous academic and clinical training.

Throughout the program, students develop skills in patient assessment, care planning, medication administration, and health promotion. They are trained to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, communicate effectively with patients and families, and utilize evidence-based practices. The curriculum often includes advanced topics such as health informatics, leadership in healthcare, ethics, and policy, preparing graduates to assume roles beyond bedside care, including management or specialized nursing fields.

The program typically includes a combination of classroom learning, simulation labs, and supervised clinical experiences to provide a well-rounded education. Students may also participate in research projects or community outreach programs to reinforce their understanding of public health issues and preventive care. Upon completion of the BSN program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which is required to become licensed registered nurses in California and other states.

The university provides supportive services such as faculty mentorship, academic advising, and access to state-of-the-art facilities to foster student success. Many graduates pursue advanced education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs, advancing their careers in nursing practice, education, administration, or research. The program aims to produce competent, compassionate, and culturally sensitive nurses who can meet the evolving health needs of diverse populations in California and beyond.