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RN Programs in San Mateo, California

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

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in San Mateo, California

If you’re considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in San Mateo, California, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started on this rewarding career path. But first, let’s clarify what an RN does. A Registered Nurse is a healthcare professional responsible for providing patient care, educating patients about health conditions, and offering emotional support to patients and their families.

Why Become an RN in San Mateo?

San Mateo, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, boasts a vibrant community and a thriving healthcare sector. With its scenic neighborhoods like Hillsdale and Baywood-Aragon, it’s a fantastic place to live and work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an RN in California is around $120,560 per year, and the job market is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029. You can learn more about the city on its official website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in San Mateo, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, a minimum age of 18, and completion of certain courses such as biology and chemistry. Additionally, you may need to pass entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and undergo a background check.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You’ll take courses in subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Clinical training is an essential part of the curriculum, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced professionals.

RN Training Programs in San Mateo, California

Here are some local schools offering RN programs:

  1. College of San Mateo
    • Location: 1700 W Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94402
    • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
    • Description: The College of San Mateo offers a comprehensive ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
    • Website: College of San Mateo Nursing Program
  2. Samuel Merritt University – San Mateo Learning Center
    • Location: 1700 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94402
    • Program: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
    • Description: This accelerated program is designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to transition into nursing. It offers a fast-paced curriculum with extensive clinical placements.
    • Website: Samuel Merritt University ABSN Program
  3. Skyline College
    • Location: 3300 College Dr, San Bruno, CA 94066 (10 miles from San Mateo)
    • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
    • Description: Skyline College provides an ADN program with a strong focus on practical skills and clinical experience. The program is known for its supportive faculty and modern facilities.
    • Website: Skyline College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in San Mateo

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

  1. Mills-Peninsula Medical Center
    • Location: 1501 Trousdale Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010 (near the Burlingame neighborhood)
    • Description: Part of the Sutter Health network, Mills-Peninsula Medical Center offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services.
    • Website: Mills-Peninsula Medical Center Careers
  2. San Mateo Medical Center
    • Location: 222 W 39th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403 (near the Beresford neighborhood)
    • Description: This county-run hospital provides comprehensive medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services.
    • Website: San Mateo Medical Center Careers
  3. Kaiser Permanente Redwood City Medical Center
    • Location: 1100 Veterans Blvd, Redwood City, CA 94063 (about 12 miles from San Mateo)
    • Description: A major healthcare provider in the region, Kaiser Permanente offers a broad range of medical services and specialties.
    • Website: Kaiser Permanente Careers

RN Certification Requirements

In California, RNs must obtain a license from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). You’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet all state requirements, which include completing an accredited nursing program and submitting to a background check. For more information, visit the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in San Mateo can vary widely. For example, tuition at the College of San Mateo is approximately $46 per unit for California residents, while private institutions like Samuel Merritt University may charge significantly higher tuition. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific details.

Licensure Reciprocity

California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in California without obtaining additional licensure. However, RNs from non-compact states will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the California BRN. More details can be found on the California BRN website.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in San Mateo, California, is an attainable and rewarding goal. With a variety of local RN programs, supportive employment opportunities, and a welcoming community, there’s no better time to start your journey. Contact a school today to take the first step towards your new career!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer San Mateo 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 Mateo?

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 Mateo, California

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College of San Mateo

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

Chabot College

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

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

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

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

California State University – East Bay

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

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

Merritt College

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

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

Ohlone College

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

De Anza Community College

Contra Costa College

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

College of Marin

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

San Jose State University

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

Dominican University of California

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

Evergreen Valley College

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

Los Medanos College

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

Cabrillo College

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

Solano Community College

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

Napa Valley College

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

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

Gavilan College

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

San Joaquin Delta College

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

Santa Rosa Junior College

University of Phoenix – Modesto

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

Pacific Union College

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

Hartnell College

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

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

California State University

  • 1 University Circle Turlock, CA 95382
    Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (209) 667-3122

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

Western Career College

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

American River College

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