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RN Programs in Santa Monica, California

Get your RN degree in Santa Monica, California - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Santa Monica, California

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Santa Monica, California? This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant coastal city. From understanding the prerequisites to exploring local RN programs and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Santa Monica?

Santa Monica, known for its iconic pier and beautiful beaches, offers a wonderful environment for both living and working. As an RN in Santa Monica, you can enjoy a high quality of life while making a meaningful impact on your community. The average salary for an RN in California is around $120,560 per year, and the job growth for RNs is projected to be robust, with a 6% increase expected from 2021 to 2031 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about Santa Monica, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you need to meet several prerequisites:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require this basic educational qualification.
  • Minimum Age: You typically need to be at least 18 years old.
  • Entrance Exams: Some schools require entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
  • Background Checks: A clean background check is often necessary for admission to RN programs.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally include a mix of coursework and clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

  • Core Nursing Courses: Anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology.
  • Specialized Nursing Courses: Pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health nursing, and medical-surgical nursing.
  • Clinical Training: Hands-on training in healthcare settings to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

RN Training Programs in Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica is home to several reputable institutions offering RN programs. Here are three local schools where you can start your journey:

  1. Santa Monica College
    • Address: 1900 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
    • Program Description: Santa Monica College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program known for its comprehensive curriculum and strong clinical partnerships.
    • Program Page: Santa Monica College RN Program
  2. Mount Saint Mary’s University, Doheny Campus
    • Address: 10 Chester Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90007 (approximately 10 miles from Santa Monica)
    • Program Description: This university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with a focus on fostering critical thinking and leadership skills.
    • Program Page: Mount Saint Mary’s University RN Program
  3. West Coast University, Los Angeles
    • Address: 12215 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606 (approximately 15 miles from Santa Monica)
    • Program Description: West Coast University offers both ADN and BSN programs with advanced simulation labs and extensive clinical rotations.
    • Program Page: West Coast University RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Santa Monica

Santa Monica has a variety of healthcare facilities where RNs can find rewarding employment. Here are some major employers:

  1. Providence Saint John’s Health Center
  2. UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica
    • Address: 1250 16th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404
    • Description: Part of the renowned UCLA Health system, this medical center provides comprehensive healthcare services.
    • Employment Opportunities: UCLA Medical Center Careers
  3. Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center and Orthopaedic Hospital
    • Address: 1225 15th St, Santa Monica, CA 90404
    • Description: Specializes in orthopedic care and is affiliated with the UCLA Health System.
    • Employment Opportunities: Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in California, you need to meet both state-specific and national certification requirements:

  • NCLEX-RN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
  • California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN): Apply for licensure through the California BRN.
  • Continuing Education: Complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain your license.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Santa Monica can vary widely. Here’s a general idea:

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): $6,000 to $20,000
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): $40,000 to $100,000

Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine your eligibility.

Licensure Reciprocity

California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in California without obtaining additional licensure. However, if you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to meet California’s specific requirements, which you can find on the California BRN website.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Santa Monica, California, is a rewarding and attainable goal. With the right preparation and determination, you can join the ranks of healthcare professionals making a difference in the community. Contact a local school today to get started on your journey to becoming an RN!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica?

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 Santa Monica, California

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Santa Monica College

  • 1900 Pico Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90405
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (310) 434-4000

Mount St Mary’s College

  • 12001 Chalon Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90049
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, ADN, BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (310) 954-4000

University of California, Los Angeles

  • 405 Hilgard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90095
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, LPN to BSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN
    (310) 825-4321

Los Angeles Valley College

  • 5800 Fulton Avenue Valley Glen, CA 91401
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (818) 947-2600

Los Angeles Southwest College

  • 1600 West Imperial Highway Los Angeles, CA 90047
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (323) 241-5321

Los Angeles Pierce College

Los Angeles City College

  • 855 N. Vermont Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90029
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Radiography, RN
    (323) 953-4000

Los Angeles Trade Technical College

  • 400 West Washington Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
    (213) 763-7000

El Camino College

  • 16007 Crenshaw Boulevard Torrance, CA 90506
    Programs: ADN, Radiography, RN
    (310) 532-3670

West Coast University

  • 12215 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606
    Programs: ADN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (818) 299-5500

Los Angeles County College of Nursing & Allied Health

  • 1237 North Mission Road Los Angeles, CA 90033
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (323) 226-4911

Glendale Community College

  • 1500 North Verdugo Road Glendale, CA 91208
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (818) 240-1000

California State University

  • 5151 State University Drive Los Angeles, CA 90032
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (323) 343-3000

Compton Community College

  • 1111 East Artesia Boulevard Compton, CA 90221
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
    (310) 900-1600

East Los Angeles College

  • 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez Monterey Park, CA 91754
    Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, RN
    (323) 265-8650

Los Angeles Harbor College

  • 1111 Figueroa Place Wilmington, CA 90744
    Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
    (310) 233-4000

Pasadena City College

  • 1570 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91106
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (626) 585-7123

American University of Health Sciences

  • 1600 East Hill Street, Building #1 Signal Hill, CA 90755
    Programs: BSN, RN
    (562) 988-2278

Long Beach City College

  • 4901 East Carson Street Long Beach, CA 90808
    Programs: ADN, LVN, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Phlebotomy, Radiography, RN
    (562) 938-4560

Cerritos College

  • 11110 Alondra Blvd. Norwalk, CA 90650
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (562) 860-2451

Rio Hondo College

California State University at Long Beach

  • 1250 Bellflower Boulevard Long Beach, CA 90840
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, LPN to BSN, MSN, Nursing Administration, Public Health Nursing, Radiation Therapy, RN, RN to BSN
    (562) 985-4111

College of the Canyons

Moorpark College

  • 7075 Campus Road Moorpark, CA 93021
    Programs: ADN, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Radiography, RN
    (805) 378-1400

Biola University

  • 13800 Biola Ave. La Mirada, CA 90639
    Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    1(562)903-6000

Cypress College

  • 9200 Valley View Street Cypress, CA 90630
    Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, Radiography, RN
    (714) 484-7000

Golden West College

Azusa Pacific University

  • 901 E. Alosta Ave Azusa, CA 91702
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, LPN to BSN, MSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (626) 969-3434

Mt. San Antonio College

  • 1100 N. Grand Avenue Walnut, CA 91789
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Radiography, RN
    (909) 594-5611

Santa Ana College

  • 1530 W 17th St. Santa Ana, CA 92706
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (714) 564-6000

Western University of Health Sciences

  • 309 E Second St. Pomona, CA 91766
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, MSN, Physician Assistant, RN, RN to MSN
    (909) 623-6116

University of California – Irvine

  • Campus Dr. and West Peltason Dr. Irvine, CA 92697
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN
    (949) 824-5011

Ventura College

  • 4667 Telegraph Road Ventura, CA 93003
    Programs: ADN, CNA, EMT Paramedic, RN
    (805) 654-6400

Antelope Valley Medical College

  • 44201 10th St West Lancaster, CA 93534
    Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
    (661) 726-1911

Chaffey College

  • 5885 Haven Avenue Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, Radiography, RN
    (909) 652-6399

Saddleback College

California Baptist University

  • 8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (877) 228-3615

Riverside Community College

  • 4800 Magnolia Ave. Riverside, CA 92506
    Programs: ADN, LVN, Physician Assistant, RN
    (951) 222-8000

San Bernardino Valley College

  • 701 South Mount Vernon Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92410
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (909) 384-4400

California State University

  • 5500 University Parkway San Bernardino, CA 92407
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (909) 537-5000

Loma Linda University

  • 11370 Anderson Street Loma Linda, CA 92354
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, ADN, BSN, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, Health Information Management-Bachelor's, LPN to BSN, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Nursing PhD, Phlebotomy, Physician Assistant, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (909) 558-2850

Santa Barbara City College

  • 721 Cliff Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93109
    Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, LVN, Radiography, RN
    (805) 965-0581

Victor Valley College

  • 18422 Bear Valley Road Victorville, CA 92395
    Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
    (760) 245-4271

Mt San Jacinto College

  • 28237 La Piedra Rd Menifee, CA 92584
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
    (951) 672-6752

Palomar College

  • 1140 West Mission Road San Marcos, CA 92069
    Programs: ADN, RN
    1(760)744-1150

California State University at San Marcos

  • 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road San Marcos, CA 92096
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (760) 750-4000

California State University at Bakersfield

  • 9001 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, RN, RN to BSN
    (661) 654-2782