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RN Programs in San Francisco, California

Get your RN degree in San Francisco, California - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in San Francisco, California

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in San Francisco, California? This guide will take you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN is to finding the right RN program for you in this vibrant city. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, San Francisco offers a wealth of opportunities.

Why Become an RN in San Francisco?

San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and diverse neighborhoods like the Mission District and Nob Hill, is an excellent place to pursue a career as an RN. The city offers a competitive average salary for RNs, typically around $133,000 annually, which is higher than the national average. Additionally, the demand for healthcare professionals is expected to grow steadily, making it a promising career choice. For more details on the job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Registered Nurses.

For more about what San Francisco has to offer, you can check out the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. Typically, these include:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Being at least 18 years old
  • Passing entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
  • A background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in San Francisco are designed to provide a comprehensive education in nursing. You can expect to take courses in:

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Microbiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Nursing Ethics
  • Patient Care Techniques

In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll complete clinical training in local healthcare facilities to gain hands-on experience.

RN Training Programs in San Francisco, California

San Francisco offers several excellent RN programs. Here are three local options:

  1. City College of San Francisco
    • Address: 50 Frida Kahlo Way, San Francisco, CA 94112
    • Description: City College of San Francisco offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. The curriculum includes both classroom and clinical training. Tuition is affordable, making it a great option for many students.
    • Program Link: City College of San Francisco ADN Program
  2. University of San Francisco
    • Address: 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
    • Description: The University of San Francisco offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program focuses on holistic nursing care and includes extensive clinical rotations at various healthcare facilities.
    • Program Link: University of San Francisco BSN Program
  3. San Francisco State University
    • Address: 1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132
    • Description: San Francisco State University offers both BSN and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in nursing.
    • Program Link: San Francisco State University Nursing Programs

RN Employment Opportunities in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

  1. UCSF Medical Center
    • Description: UCSF Medical Center is one of the top hospitals in the country, known for its cutting-edge research and patient care.
    • Employment Opportunities: UCSF Medical Center Careers
  2. California Pacific Medical Center
  3. Saint Francis Memorial Hospital

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in California, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the state’s specific licensing requirements. The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) oversees licensure. For more information, visit the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in San Francisco can vary widely. Community colleges like City College of San Francisco offer more affordable options, while universities like the University of San Francisco may have higher tuition fees. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to help offset these costs. Be sure to check each school’s financial aid office for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in California without additional licensure. However, if you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement. More information can be found on the California Board of Registered Nursing website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in San Francisco is a rewarding choice with plenty of opportunities. Take the first step by researching local schools and contacting them through their program pages. Your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse begins now!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer San Francisco RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in San Francisco?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in California. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in California. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in California.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.

RN Schools Near You & Online Near San Francisco, California

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San Francisco State University

  • 1600 Holloway Avenue San Francisco, CA 94132
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, Accelerated MSN, BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (415) 338-1111

College of Marin

  • 835 College Avenue Kentfield, CA 94904
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (415) 457-8811

University of San Francisco

  • 2130 Fulton Street San Francisco, CA 94117
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, BSN to DNP, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, MSN, RN, RN to MSN
    (415) 422-5555

City College of San Francisco

  • 50 Phelan Avenue San Francisco, CA 94112
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LVN, Medical Assistant, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN
    (415) 239-3000

University of California – San Francisco

  • 55 Laguna Street San Francisco, CA 94102
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, DNP, MSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to MSN
    (415) 252-3016

Dominican University of California

  • 50 Acacia Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, LPN to BSN, RN
    1(415)457-4440

Contra Costa College

  • 2600 Mission Bell Drive San Pablo, CA 94806
    Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
    (510) 235-7800

Samuel Merritt College

  • 3100 Telegraph Ave Oakland, CA 94609
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, Accelerated MSN, BSN, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN, Nurse Anesthetist, Physician Assistant, RN
    (510) 869-6511

College of San Mateo

  • 1700 W. Hillsdale Boulevard San Mateo, CA 94402
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (650) 574-6161

Merritt College

  • 12500 Campus Drive Oakland, CA 94619
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, Radiography, RN
    (510) 531-4911

Chabot College

  • 25555 Hesperian Blvd. Hayward, CA 94545
    Programs: ADN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (510) 723-6600

California State University – East Bay

  • 25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard Hayward, CA 94542
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (510) 885-3000

Sonoma State University

  • 1801 East Cotati Ave. Rohnert Park, CA 94928
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (707) 664-2880

Napa Valley College

  • 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway Napa, CA 94558
    Programs: ADN, EMT Paramedic, LVN, RN
    (707) 253-3000

Solano Community College

  • 4000 Suisun Valley Rd Fairfield, CA 94534
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (707) 864-7000

Santa Rosa Junior College

Ohlone College

  • 43600 Mission Boulevard Fremont, CA
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (510) 659-6000

De Anza Community College

Los Medanos College

  • 2700 East Leland Road Pittsburg, CA 94565
    Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
    (925) 439-2181

San Jose State University

  • One Washington Square San Jose, CA 95192
    Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (408) 924-1000

Pacific Union College

  • One Angwin Avenue Angwin, CA 94508
    Programs: ADN, RN, RN to BSN
    (707) 965-6311

Evergreen Valley College

  • 3095 Yerba Buena Road San Jose, CA 95135
    Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
    (408) 274-7900

Cabrillo College

  • 6500 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003
    Programs: ADN, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, Radiography, RN
    (831) 479-6100

San Joaquin Delta College

  • 5151 Pacific Ave Stockton, CA 95207
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
    (209) 954-5151

Gavilan College

  • 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd. Gilroy, CA 95020
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
    (408) 848-4800

Sacramento City College

  • 3835 Freeport Boulevard Sacramento, CA 95822
    Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
    (916) 558-2111

California State University at Sacramento

  • 6000 J Street Sacramento, CA 95819
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, EMT Paramedic, LPN to BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (916) 278-6011

University of Phoenix – Modesto

  • 5330 Pirrone Road Salida, CA 95368
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (800) 266-2107

Western Career College

  • 8909 Folsom Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95826
    Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
    (877) 206-5543

Modesto Junior College

  • 435 College Avenue Modesto, CA 95350
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, RN
    (209) 575-6550

Monterey Peninsula College

  • 980 Fremont St Monterey, CA 93940
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (831) 646-4000

American River College

  • 4700 College Oak Drive Sacramento, CA 95841
    Programs: ADN, CNA, EMT Paramedic, RN
    (916) 484-8011

Hartnell College

  • 411 Central Avenue Salinas, CA 93901
    Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
    (831) 755-6700