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ScrubScope
State guide

Best online nursing programs in California

Last reviewed May 22, 20262 sourcesHow we rank

Reviewed May 22, 2026 by the ScrubScope editorial team.

California is not a Nurse Licensure Compact member, so a state-issued RN license is required to practice here. The accredited online schools below are open to California residents; confirm licensure and clinical-placement eligibility with the state board before enrolling. ScrubScope ranks by fit, not commission, and does not make admissions decisions.

Licensing snapshot

California at a glance

Nurse Licensure Compact
Not a member
Board of nursing
Official board site
Reported RN salary figureBLS OEWS, May 2025
$150,280

Not a Nurse Licensure Compact member; an active California-issued RN license is required to practice in-state.

Salary source: BLS OEWS, May 2025

Cost picture

What you'll pay in California

Published tuition for an accredited online program rarely matches what you finally pay: residency-tier pricing, employer tuition assistance, and graduate aid all move the real figure. We list each school's published range on its review, and the shortlist below carries the sourced figures for California-eligible programs. Verify current in-state status and fees with the school before deciding on cost.

RN annual mean wage in California
$150,280
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Where to study

Accredited online nursing schools

Online coursework is largely location-agnostic — the schools below accept California residents alongside students nationwide. The licensing caveat above still applies: graduates sit the NCLEX-RN and seek licensure in California, not the school's home state. Each links to a full school review.

Before you enroll

In-state vs out-of-state online study

Accredited online programs are largely location-agnostic for coursework, but clinical placements, licensure by endorsement, and tuition tiers can differ by residency. Verify the current rules with the California board of nursing and the school before you commit.

Common questions

No. California is not a Nurse Licensure Compact member. Not a Nurse Licensure Compact member; an active California-issued RN license is required to practice in-state.
Yes. The accredited online schools listed above admit California residents. Confirm licensure and clinical-placement rules with the state board first.
Keep exploring

Schools to compare next

Walden University reviewCCNE · Fully onlineCapella University reviewCCNE · Fully onlineWestern Governors University reviewCCNE · Fully onlineAll states
References

Sources

  1. California Board of Nursing. California Board of Nursing. https://www.rn.ca.gov/
  2. Nurse Licensure Compact member states. National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2025. https://www.ncsbn.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm