The Top BSN Programs in San Diego, CA in 2026

San Diego is home to some of the best BSN programs in California and the nation. As a leader in healthcare and biotechnology, San Diego offers unparalleled opportunities for nursing students to gain clinical experience at world-class healthcare systems and research facilities.

As a Higher Education Reform Expert focused specifically on nursing programs, I have compiled this expert guide on the top BSN programs in San Diego based on curriculum quality, faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, career support services, and student outcomes.

Whether you are just starting your nursing education or looking to advance your nursing career, read on to discover the nursing programs that San Diego has to offer.

1. Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) has earned a reputation for excellence in nursing education for over 40 years. PLNU offers several paths to earning a BSN, including a traditional four-year BSN program, an RN to BSN program, and an accelerated BSN program for those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

Key Features

• Nationally accredited nursing curriculum incorporating simulation labs and clinical rotations at leading healthcare systems

• Distinguished faculty with extensive real-world experience who serve as mentors focused on student success

• Cutting-edge simulation center replicating clinical settings to develop critical thinking skills

• Supportive Christian environment emphasizing leadership, scholarship, faith and service

• 92-100% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates consistently over the past decade

Career Outcomes

PLNU BSN graduates have achieved an excellent 95-100% employment rate over the past five years. Graduates are well prepared to launch their nursing careers and pursue advanced nursing degrees. Many graduates secure RN positions at top hospitals and healthcare systems across San Diego before graduation.

Visit Point Loma Nazarene University‘s Nursing Website

2. University of San Diego

The Hahn School of Nursing at the University of San Diego (USD) is nationally ranked among the best nursing schools in California. USD offers several BSN pathways such as an honors program, accelerated program, and RN to BSN program.

Key Features

• Cutting-edge simulation labs with high-tech human patient simulators

• Renowned faculty driving innovation in nursing education and healthcare

• Extensive hands-on clinical training at various prestigious healthcare organizations

• Interprofessional education focused on developing teamwork and leadership abilities

• Supportive learning environment with small class sizes and peer mentoring

Career Outcomes

USD graduates consistently secure RN positions at elite healthcare systems and organizations soon after passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Over the past three years, 95-100% of BSN graduates obtained nursing positions or enrolled in graduate programs within 12 months of graduation.

Visit University of San Diego‘s Nursing Website

3. California State University, San Marcos

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is the only public university offering a BSN in San Diego County. The accelerated track allows students with a prior bachelor’s degree to complete their BSN in just 12 months.

Key Features

• Accelerated BSN track for those with a previous non-nursing bachelor’s degree

• Cutting-edge simulation technology and teaching methods

• Clinical rotations at diverse healthcare settings ranging from hospitals to community clinics

• Interdisciplinary education focused on evidence-based practice and collaborative care

• Pass rates on the NCLEX-RN licensing exam consistently over 90%

Career Outcomes

Over the past three years, 93-100% of CSUSM BSN graduates found employment within one year of graduation. CSUSM graduates secure RN positions at leading health systems and advance into graduate nursing programs locally and nationwide.

Visit Cal State San Marcos‘ Nursing Website

4. San Diego State University

With over 80 years of nursing education excellence, the Sally Hardin School of Nursing at San Diego State University (SDSU) is the oldest nursing program in San Diego. SDSU offers traditional and accelerated BSN programs, both taught at the university‘s state-of-the-art nursing building.

Key Features

• Renowned nationally accredited nursing school with over 80 years of educating top nursing talent

• High-fidelity simulation labs featuring advanced human patient simulators

• Clinical rotations at versatile sites including rural clinics, VA hospitals, and leading health systems

• Cutting-edge research opportunities in nursing practice, education, leadership, and global health

• Pass rates on the NCLEX-RN licensing exam between 93-99% over the past decade

Career Outcomes

The vast SDSU nursing alumni network opens doors to rewarding nursing career opportunities. Over 95% of pre-licensure BSN graduates over the past three years found employment as RNs within a year. Many graduates readily secure jobs at elite healthcare organizations or enroll in advance practice nursing programs.

Visit San Diego State University‘s Nursing Website

5. National University

National University offers flexible online and on-campus programs including an RN to BSN program, accelerated BSN program and regular BSN program. With multiple campus locations in San Diego, National University makes earning a BSN convenient.

Key Features

• Accelerated online and on-campus BSN program for students with a prior bachelor‘s degree

• Flexible RN to BSN program tailored for working nurses wishing to further their education

• Clinical rotations and hands-on skills labs offered at National University’s San Diego campuses

• Faculty comprised of practicing nurses and advanced practice nurses in the community

• NCLEX-RN first time pass rates over 85% consistently for past three years

Career Outcomes

Within six to twelve months after program completion, over 90% of National University BSN graduates find employment in nursing. Many graduates readily acquire RN positions at prestigious health centers, hospitals and clinics throughout San Diego.

Visit National University‘s Nursing Website

6. Azusa Pacific University – San Diego Regional Campus

Azusa Pacific University (APU) is a faith-based institution offering an accelerated bachelor’s to BSN program at its San Diego campus tailored for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

Key Features

• Accelerated program for earn a BSN degree in just 12 months

• Hands-on clinical rotations at various prestigious San Diego health facilities

• Interprofessional simulation training focused on evidence-based practice and leadership

• Supportive Christian environment emphasizing leadership, scholarship and service

• California Board of Registered Nursing approval with expected 2024 CCNE accreditation

Career Outcomes

Though an emerging program, APU has an excellent track record of nursing graduates securing RN positions at leading health systems, clinics and hospitals in California. APU nursing graduates further their education and careers serving in various nursing specialty roles.

Visit Azusa Pacific University‘s Nursing Website

7. Chamberlain University – San Diego Campus

Chamberlain University’s San Diego campus provides flexible degree options to earn a BSN. Program offerings include an online RN to BSN program, a 3-year BSN degree program and an accelerated post-baccalaureate BSN degree.

Key Features

• Renowned nationwide nursing school with excellent student outcomes

• Fall, spring and summer enrollment options into the accelerated BSN program

• Cutting-edge simulation training replicating real-world clinical environments

• Clinical rotations arranged at reputable healthcare organizations in San Diego

• Holistic admission approach focused on potential, resilience past grades or test scores

Career Outcomes

Within six months of graduation, over 90% of Chamberlain BSN graduates obtain RN licensure and secure nursing positions at leading healthcare providers across San Diego and nationwide. Graduates praise the extensive career support received.

Visit Chamberlain University‘s Website

8. Western University of Health Sciences – San Diego Campus

Western University of Health Sciences offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at its San Diego campus tailored for students with a prior bachelor’s degree seeking to transition into nursing.

Key Features

• Accelerated 15-month program for earn a BSN as a second degree

• Robust 650+ clinical rotation hours across a range of healthcare settings

• Interprofessional education focused on evidence-based practice and leadership

• Holistic and supportive learning climate led by experienced faculty

• State-of-the-art campus featuring simulation labs with advanced human simulators

Career Outcomes

Within six months of graduation, almost all ABSN graduates pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam on their first attempt. Graduates consistently secure RN positions soon after becoming licensed and launch their nursing careers at esteemed healthcare organizations across California.

Visit Western University‘s Nursing Website

9. Southwestern College

Southwestern Community College District (Southwestern College) based in Chula Vista offers an ADN to BSN program for licensed RNs looking to further their nursing education. An affordable tuition makes completing a BSN accessible.

Key Features

• Flexible online ADN to BSN program tailored for licensed RNs

• Accelerated course format allows completing the program part-time in just 12 months

• Supportive faculty focused on advancing nurses’ expertise and careers

• Seamless transfer for ADN nursing graduates from Southwestern College

• Total estimated tuition cost under $10,000 for California residents

Career Outcomes

Southwestern College ADN to BSN graduates enhance their clinical knowledge, critical thinking abilities and leadership skills to advance their careers. Many alumni move into leadership, advanced practice, academia and research roles at prestigious healthcare institutions regionally and nationwide.

Visit Southwestern College‘s Nursing Website

10. Brandman University – San Diego Campus

Brandman University offers an online RN to BSN program with evening and weekend courses taught by professors with real-world nursing expertise looking to make completing a BSN achievable for working nurses.

Key Features

• Flexible online and blended evening/weekend courses

• Assignments tailored to build upon students‘ nursing experience

• Supportive student advising focused on academic and career success

• Option to complete clinical hours at student’s workplace

• Competitively priced RN to BSN program under $25,000

Career Outcomes

Within 12 months after graduation, over 90% of Brandman RN to BSN graduates have career advancement such as charge nurse roles, training positions or graduate program enrollment. Alumni praise the networking and resume building support received.

Visit Brandman University‘s Nursing Website

As you can see, San Diego offers a wealth of exceptional BSN programs fitting diverse needs from leading nursing schools. I hope this guide detailing the key advantages of the top 10 nursing programs assists you in choosing the perfect fit to launch a rewarding nursing career. Please reach out with any questions!