---
title: AZCN Ontario Campus
url: "https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/"
type: campus-location
date_published: 2025-06-12
date_modified: 2026-05-08
schema:
  @type: WebPage
language: en-US
word_count: 5206
reading_time: 27 min
canonical: "https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/"
campus_state:
  - California
campus_type:
  - Arizona College of Nursing
---

# AZCN Ontario Campus

![Nursing School Nurse Courses Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Students-On-Campus-At-A-Nursing-Program-Near-Me.jpg.webp?w=1024)

![Arizona College hero bars graphic](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/hero-bars.svg)

# Ontario Nursing School

3-Year BSN Program: Become a Nurse Faster With No Prerequisite Coursework

Classes begin June 29th

![Icon for a Nursing Program Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/icon-shield-user.svg?w=1024)

[Campus Life](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/location/)

![How much do RNs make with a BSN degree](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/icon-faqs.svg?w=1024)

[Campus FAQ](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/faq/)

![How to Get a Nursing Degree from a Nursing Program Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/icon-hat.svg?w=1024)

[Admissions](https://arizonacollege.edu/admissions/)

## Why Our California Nursing School in Ontario Is Right for You

- **#3 Best Nursing School in California **by RegisteredNursing.org
- Earn your BSN in three years or less with qualified transfer credits!
- Flexible scheduling with gen ed night classes and a mixture of in-person,
  online, and blended nursing classes
- Your success is our priority: tutoring, open lab time, and academic support
- Small class sizes with personalized attention

![CCNE Accredited Nursing School](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/logo-ccne-accredited.png)

![Best Nursing Schools in California](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RN-badge-out.svg)

_The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ([www.aacnnursing.org](https://www.aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation))._
_Visit RegisteredNursing.org for more information on their ranking methodology for the [Best Nursing Schools in California](https://www.registerednursing.org/state/california/)._

![Nursing Program Faculty With Students In Nursing School Lab](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Nursing-Program-Faculty-With-Students-In-Nursing-School-Lab.webp)

## Your Nursing Education Dream⏎ Can Start Now

Our nursing program in Ontario, CA is designed with one goal: to prepare you for
a future career in the health sciences as a registered nurse (RN). We strive for
academic excellence through classroom teaching, hands-on simulations, and
training in real-world healthcare environments to give you the nursing skills
you need.

[Get Started Today ](https://arizonacollege.edu/request-more-information/)

![Nursing College Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/192x192-GraduateRobeHat.svg)

###  Graduate in Less Time With Eligible Transfer Credits

[Learn More ](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/#transfercredit)

![Nursing School Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/192x192-Template-Heart-Sim-thic-1.svg)

###  Get Hands-On Experience in Guided Labs

[Learn More ](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/#handson)

![Nursing Program Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/svg/192x192-Computer-Test.svg)

###  NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation From Day One

[Learn More ](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/#nclex)

##  Hear From Nursing Students in Our School

Nurses are my inspiration! They are the superheroes that I aspire to be. It was
the care that they provided to my terminally ill parents and support that they
gave to my family that opened my heart and made me want to do the same.

![Ontario Nursing School Student Marcelle Nguyen](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Ontario-Nursing-School-Student-Marcelle-Nguyen.webp?w=150&h=150&crop=1)

Marcelle Nguyen  Ontario BSN Program

The Arizona College of Nursing instructors believed in me and my nursing dreams.
They supported me to become the best version of myself. I have now graduated
with my BSN!

![BSN Program Nursing Degree Testimonial](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/BSN-Program-Testimonial-Melissa-Georges.webp?w=150&h=150&crop=1)

Melissa Georges  BSN Program

Arizona College prepared me so well for my NCLEX and what to expect in the
field. I really enjoyed my clinical rotations and had some great professors.

![Holly LaValley Tempe Student](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Holly-LaValley-Tempe-Student.webp?w=150&h=150&crop=1)

Holly Lavalley  BSN Program

As a first semester core nursing student at Arizona College of Nursing, I have
been blessed to have instructors who strive to develop our skills and encourages
us to regard education as an indispensable, lifelong journey.

![Nursing School Near Me Testimonial by Candy Itwaru](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Candy-Itwaru-Nursing-Degree-Testimonial.webp?w=150&h=150&crop=1)

Candy Itwaru  BSN Program

## What 󠀁_You_󠁿 Get from Arizona College of Nursing

### Convenient Scheduling for Nursing School in Ontario

Looking for convenient scheduling for nursing school in Southern California? Our
accredited three-year BSN program offers multiple start dates and evening gen ed
night classes, plus online nursing program courses designed for working adults
like you.

With convenient scheduling that includes blended learning and virtual classes,
you can earn your nursing degree without putting everything on hold. Discover
how our nursing program works with your busy schedule.

![Nursing School Faculty In Lab](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Nursing-School-Faculty-In-Lab.webp)

### A Welcome Community for Providing Care

When you join our Ontario nursing school, you become part of a community in the
nursing profession. Our student body includes aspiring nurse class students from
Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and surrounding communities.

You’ll find yourself supported by dedicated faculty, mentors, and classmates who
understand the challenges and rewards of pursuing a nursing degree in
California’s dynamic healthcare environment.

![Nursing School BSN Program Nursing Students](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AZCN-Nursing-School-BSN-Nursing-Students.webp)

### Learn Hands-On Skills

Our nurse classes focus on practical learning so you’re prepared for clinical
environments and a strong start in your nursing program career.

Southern California nursing school students build confidence through hands-on
training in
[realistic clinical environments](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/#clinical-partnerships)
and labs. You’ll develop the skills to think critically, evaluate patients, and
deliver patient care in fast-paced settings.

![AZCN Nursing Students in Healthcare Clinical Rotation](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AZCN-BSN-Nursing-School-Nursing-Program.webp)

### Support Resources and a Clear Admission Process

Among nursing schools in Ontario California, our nursing program keeps the
application process clear and focused on nursing school students. We’ll guide
you from your first inquiry to your final step so you can stay focused on your
goals as a future nursing student.

You’ll have access to personalized nursing program support and resources to help
you succeed through graduation. We can even help with
[NCLEX-RN exam prep](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/#nclex-exam-prep)
!

![Nursing Program Teacher With Student At BSN Nursing BSN Program](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Nursing-Program-Teacher-With-Student-At-BSN-Nursing-BSN-Program.webp)

### Nursing Salary Potential in California

Registered Nurses in the Riverside California area earn a median annual wage of
$130,160 per year. While new nursing program graduates typically start below the
median, earnings often grow steadily with experience. According to the Bureau of
Labor Statistics, salaries for RNs in Riverside range from $97,780 to $171,040
annually.

Updated May 2025. Source:
[O\*NET Online](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?zip=91761)

![Nursing degree student in nursing school near me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nursing-Student-BSA-Requirements.webp)

### Nursing Practice in Clinical Rotations

During your BSN program, you’ll gain experience in clinical rotations. Similar
to other nursing programs, you’ll partner with healthcare professionals that may
include nurse managers, registered nurses, and clinical nurse specialists.

These nursing school experiences strengthen your clinical skills and expertise.
Clinical rotations may provide insights into how nurse managers and RNs
collaborate in real medical environments.

![Student support at nursing school near me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Student-support-at-nursing-school-near-me.webp)

![Arizona College watermark graphic](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/images/azc-iconmark.svg)

## How Transfer Credits Work

As you consider nursing programs, at Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN), we
understand that you want to get the most out of your previous education
experience on your journey through nursing school. Students can progress through
our BSN program of study in three years or less with qualifying gen ed transfer
credits. Our academic advisors will work closely with you to review transcripts
and transfer as many credits as possible.

## AZCN Ontario Offers In-Person, Blended, and Online Nursing Courses

Move toward your nursing career with a program designed for both convenience and
real-world preparation.

- **Flexible learning format** – Arizona College of Nursing – Ontario offers a
  mixture of in-person, blended, and online nursing classes to accommodate
  different learning styles and schedules
- **Online classes for non-clinical coursework** – Some non-clinical nursing
  courses are delivered fully online in asynchronous format, allowing you to
  learn on your own schedule
- **Clinical training** – Nursing courses with clinical components are conducted
  to ensure hands-on skill development
- **Blended general education courses** – General education requirements
  incorporate both night classes and virtual sessions for added flexibility

![Online nursing courses in California](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Students-Earning-a-BSN-Degree.webp)

![BSN degree students walking at a nursing school near me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/images/Nursing-Program-Students-in-Hallway-at-AZCN-768x544-1.webp)

## Nursing School Curriculum

From day one, our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program is built
to prepare you for a thriving career as a registered nurse (RN). Our curriculum
combines classroom teaching, hands-on labs, real-world clinical experience, and
extensive NCLEX-RN exam prep to get you ready for a successful nursing career.

##  Sample Classes in Our BSN Curriculum:

- Fundamentals of Biology
- Introduction to Psychology
- Human Anatomy/Physiology I
- College Mathematics
- First Year Composition (Writing) I

- Human Pathophysiology
- Human Nutrition
- Critical Thinking in Clinical Decision-Making
- Pharmacology I
- Evidence-Based Practice I
- Community Health Nursing + Practicum
- Maternal Health Theory and Application + Practicum
- Transition to the Nursing Profession
- Professional Seminar (NCLEX-RN Preparation)

##  Our California Campus is a Career-Focused Nursing School

We work hard to equip students with the nursing skills & hands-on experience
they need to succeed in their chosen field.

###  Nursing Career Services and Resources

98.25% of our Ontario graduates are employed in the field within 6 months of
passing the NCLEX-RN.\*\*\* In the final year of nursing school, our instructors
help with resume writing, interview preparation, and job-searching tips. Our
Career Services Team is committed to helping you launch your nursing career.

###  Small Nursing Classes With Personalized Attention

You’re more than just a face in the crowd when you join our nursing program in
Ontario, CA. With our small class sizes you can get one-on-one support from
experienced faculty, something larger nursing schools often can’t provide. As
you begin your nursing degree in California, we provide the hands-on training
and personalized support you need to succeed.

###  Guided Hands-On Simulations

Simulation labs provide a safe space for you to practice skills, problem-solve,
and take risks. Our Sim Labs are equipped with life-like mannequins, as
“patients” that can breathe and bleed. Your instructors will guide you through
basic and complex nursing scenarios, giving you time to practice the medical
skills you would use as a nurse.

###  BSN Curriculum

Our CCNE-accredited nursing degree program combines classroom and hands-on
learning. You’ll apply concepts from your foundational courses to real-world
scenarios, all while you are developing the professionalism and soft skills
demanded of today’s healthcare employers.

###  Accredited Nursing School

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN) at Arizona College of Nursing
– Ontario is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (
[https://www.aacnnursing.org](https://www.aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation)).
All Arizona College of Nursing campuses are also institutionally accredited by
the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (
[ABHES](https://www.abhes.org/)).

###  A Step Toward Your Future Nursing Career

When you’re ready to move toward your career in nursing, you shouldn’t have to
wait. At Arizona College of Nursing in Ontario, we offer a three-year BSN
program, convenient scheduling, a streamlined admissions process, and clinical
rotations across California. Our team is here to help you take the next step.

## Complete NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

Our nursing school in Ontario, California is designed to start preparing you for
the NCLEX-RN exam on day one. Instructors introduce students to NCLEX-RN-style
questions and clinical judgment throughout our curriculum to get them
comfortable. To learn more about testing format and study strategies, read our
blog post
[Mastering the NCLEX: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparation](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/mastering-the-nclex-a-comprehensive-guide-to-preparation/)
.

Here’s just a few of the ways we prepare you for the NCLEX-RN

- A class dedicated entirely to preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Virtual practice exams customized for each student
- Exam strategies & tips from instructors
- Customized assignments & study plans

[get Started ](https://arizonacollege.edu/request-more-information/)

![Nursing Degree Program Faculty and Students in lab](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Nursing-Degree-Program-Faculty-and-Students-in-Lab-2.webp)

![Nursing Program Students and Teacher in lab Coat](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nursing-program-Students-and-Teacher-in-lab-Coat.webp)

## Clinical Partnerships at Our Nursing School in California

In the final year of our practical nursing program, students spend most of their
time in clinical rotations, training in real-world healthcare environments.
Hands-on experience with patients and medical professionals is one of the most
powerful ways to learn. We make it a priority for our students. We’ve partnered
with healthcare providers in California to provide students with opportunities
for clinical experience and nursing research by working with nurse leaders.

Visit Our 
[BSN Program Curriculum](https://www.arizonacollege.edu/accredited-bsn-program/curriculum/)
 Page For More Details.

[Get In Touch ](https://arizonacollege.edu/request-more-information/)

## Arizona College of Nursing – Ontario Campus Events

Our Ontario campus is located by the Ontario International Airport at 3401 N
Centre Lake Dr, in Ontario, California. Upcoming events here include:

![Students at desk on BSN program start date](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Students-at-desk-on-BSN-program-start-date.webp?w=1024)

### Next Start Date

**Date: June 29th**
New classes for the BSN program at AZCN start approximately every 8 weeks. You
can begin your nursing degree without waiting for a traditional semester
schedule.

![Students leaving nursing school for holiday closure](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Students-leaving-nursing-school-for-holiday-closure.webp?w=1024)

### Memorial Day

**Date: May 25th
Our nursing school will be closed for Memorial Day on May 25th.

![Students at commencement on AZCN graduation date](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Students-at-commencement-on-AZCN-graduation-date.webp?w=1024)

### Fall Commencement

**Beginning the week of December 14th **
Graduation commencement ceremonies are held twice a year; in the spring and
fall. Help us celebrate the achievements of our BSN degree graduates!

## Finally, a nursing school near me in Southern California!

We strive to be one of the best nursing schools in California, helping students
achieve their nursing career dreams. Our nursing degree program proudly serves
the entire Ontario area, including Riverside, San Bernadino, Fontana, and Rancho
Cucamonga. Our college campus is conveniently located less than 30 minutes from
Riverside and San Bernadino.

909-935-2744

3401 N Centre Lake Dr, Suite 430
Ontario, CA

M-Fri 9-6, Sat & Sun Closed

Additional hours available upon request.

![Arizona College watermark graphic](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/images/azc-iconmark.svg)

## Our Nursing Program in Ontario

At Arizona College of Nursing, we know nursing students. You dream of becoming a
nurse, but your life is already extremely busy, so you ask yourself how you can
make getting a nursing degree happen.

![BSN Programs in California for RN Salary](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/BSN-Programs-in-California-for-RN-Salary.webp?w=963)

We have tailored our courses to match your busy life. During the first four
semesters of general education classes, they are held in the evenings and each
course is completed in just eight weeks. New sessions start six times per year,
so you are not restricted to starting school in just Fall or Spring. Start when
the timing is right for you.

Our nursing campus is located in Ontario, California — right off the I-10, east
of Los Angeles County and northeast of Orange County. We’re just 15 minutes from
Chino, 15 minutes from Pomona, and 25 minutes from Riverside.

Stop by our nursing school to learn more about our three-year BSN degree
program. Visit our Ontario 
[Campus Life](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/location/) page
for more information on our nursing program and student life in the Ontario
area.

[Campus Life ](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/location/)

_Initial Approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing_

## Learn How Our California Nursing School Faculty and Leadership Bring Practice to the Classroom

Our faculty and leadership have real-world nursing experience and want to help
equip you for a successful career. With mentorship and hands-on guidance in
in-person labs and simulations, you can apply what you’re learning to advanced
nursing practice scenarios.

---

### Meet Our Ontario Nursing School Leadership

![California Nursing School Dean Julie Jordan](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/California-Nursing-School-Dean-Julie-Jordan.webp?w=682)

Julie Jordan

Dean of Nursing

> Throughout my career, I found that I was naturally drawn to teaching whether
> it was precepting new graduates, supporting struggling students, or helping
> colleagues grow in confidence and competence. I realized that my greatest
> impact was not just on the care I provided directly, but on the nurses I
> helped develop. Education allows me to multiply that impact.
> I truly believe nursing is more than a profession, it is a calling. For me,
> stepping into nursing education was a natural extension of that calling. It
> allows me to combine clinical expertise, leadership, and mentorship to ensure
> that future nurses are not only clinically prepared, but compassionate,
> ethical, and resilient. After three decades in healthcare, I feel a deep
> responsibility to pass on the knowledge, standards, and values that have
> guided my career.

> What sets Arizona College of Nursing apart from other California nursing
> programs is our unwavering commitment to student success without compromising
> academic rigor. We hold ourselves and our students to high standards while
> providing structured support, early intervention, and consistent faculty
> engagement. Our educators are accessible, invested, and focused on outcomes,
> not just course completion, but true competency and readiness for practice.
> We are also very intentional about our clinical partnerships and oversight of
> the student experience. Our placements are carefully aligned with program
> outcomes to ensure graduates are prepared to practice safely and confidently
> in California’s complex healthcare environment. Our focus is not simply on
> enrollment or graduation, it is on producing competent, ethical, and
> practice-ready nurses who will positively impact the communities they serve.

> At the Arizona College of Nursing, Ontario campus, nursing students have
> access to comprehensive academic and clinical support. We provide tutoring,
> academic coaching, a structured NCLEX-RN preparation program, skills labs,
> simulation experiences, and early intervention strategies to ensure students
> receive timely assistance and remain on track for success.
> In addition, students benefit from structured clinical preparation, accessible
> faculty mentorship, advising, and wellness resources that support both
> professional and personal growth. Our focus is to create a supportive
> environment where students feel confident, prepared, and equipped to meet the
> demands of nursing practice.

## Ranked #3 Best Nursing School in California

Arizona College of Nursing – Ontario has been ranked the 
**#3 best nursing school in **California by 
[Registerednursing.org](https://www.registerednursing.org/state/california/) in
their 2026 Best Nursing Schools in California rankings. This recognition places
us alongside top nursing colleges.

The Best Nursing Schools in California rankings on RegisteredNursing.org focus
exclusively on NCLEX pass rates, offering an objective assessment of program
quality, citing student success. Our graduates demonstrate they’re prepared to
excel as registered nurses from day one.

![Best Nursing Schools in Utah](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/RN-badge-out.svg?w=1024)

![Nursing school BSN program student earning a nursing degree](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Nursing-school-BSN-program-lpn-student.webp)

## LVN Advanced Standings (CA Only)

Arizona College of Nursing provides an LVN advanced standing option in the
program. Eligible applicants may apply for LVN advanced standing given they meet
the following criteria: Maintenance of an active unencumbered LVN/LPN license
from a jurisdiction recognized by the National Council of state board of nursing
and all other admission requirements of the program. This option allows students
the opportunity to earn proficiency credits for up to eight credit hours in the
program.

## Nursing Transfer Credit 󠀁_(CA Only)_󠁿

Students are eligible to obtain credit for previous education or for other
acquired knowledge in the field of nursing through equivalence, challenge
examinations, or other methods of evaluation.

![Nursing Degree School Icon](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/azc-iconmark.svg)

## Featured Blog Posts

[ ![Personal Loss Sparks Nursing Mission for Patient Safety](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/California-Nursing-School-Scholarship-Denia-Alonzo.webp?w=963) ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/personal-loss-sparks-nursing-mission-for-patient-safety/)

[ Nursing School ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/category/nursing-school/)

###  󠀁[Personal Loss Sparks Nursing Mission for Patient Safety](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/personal-loss-sparks-nursing-mission-for-patient-safety/)󠁿

By AZCN Team

[ ![How Long is a Nursing Program?](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/How-Long-is-Nursing-Program-Blog.webp?w=1024) ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/how-long-is-a-nursing-program/)

[ Nursing School ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/category/nursing-school/)

###  󠀁[How Long is a Nursing Program?](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/how-long-is-a-nursing-program/)󠁿

By AZCN Team

[ ![5 Tips to Help Healthcare Professionals Stay Healthy at Work ](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Healthcare-Program-Near-Me.webp?w=1024) ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/5-tips-to-help-healthcare-professionals-stay-healthy-at-work/)

[ Health & Wellness ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/category/health-wellness/)

###  󠀁[5 Tips to Help Healthcare Professionals Stay Healthy at Work ](https://arizonacollege.edu/blog/5-tips-to-help-healthcare-professionals-stay-healthy-at-work/)󠁿

By AZCN Team

## FAQ at our Ontario Campus

Browse below to learn about nursing concepts or click on the following link to
view the most frequently asked questions at our Ontario 
[nursing school](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/faq/). To
find a nursing school near you, visit our 
[Campus Locations](https://arizonacollege.edu/campus-locations/) page.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Arizona College of Nursing –
Ontario is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (
[https://www.aacnnursing.org](https://www.aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation)).
All Arizona College of Nursing campuses are also institutionally accredited by
the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (
[ABHES](https://www.abhes.org/)).

Understanding the differences between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) school
and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) school is crucial to planning your
nursing career path. This because the education requirements between RNs and
LPNs vary significantly. An LPN program typically takes about one to two years
to complete. It is intended to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles to
perform basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurse (RNs) and
physicians.

Registered Nurses in the Riverside-San Bernadino-Ontario area of California have
a median nursing salary of $130,160 per year.

As you will be newly entering the workforce, it’s important to know that you
will likely not start at the median rate but would likely increase your earnings
with experience. View our
[California nursing market outlook](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-california/)
for more details.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that Registered Nurses in California range
from a low rate of $100,120 per year, to the highest-paid Nurses earning as much
as $208,880 per year for their nursing salary.

Updated 05/2025. Source:
[https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?zip=91761](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?zip=91761)

In CA, you may take the NCLEX-RN Exam every 45 days. Please keep in mind you
must again pay Pearson and the California Board.

Source:
[https://www.nursinglicensure.org/state/nursing-license-california/](https://www.nursinglicensure.org/state/nursing-license-california/)

A nursing assistant provides basic patient care and support, such as helping
with daily activities and monitoring vital signs, under the supervision of a
registered nurse (RN). An RN, on the other hand, typically has more advanced
training and responsibilities, including developing and implementing patient
care plans, administering medications, and performing complex medical
procedures. RNs also oversee and coordinate care provided by nursing assistants
and other healthcare staff.

Earning a BSN degree can open doors to more advanced roles and opportunities in
the nursing field as an RN. Our BSN program in California is designed to provide
the comprehensive education and clinical experience to help advance your career.

Applying to our three-year BSN program starts with a few straightforward
requirements: a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher from high school or college and
a qualifying score on the HESI A2 assessment. Depending on your HESI A2 score, a
GPA waiver may be available.

Our admissions team can walk you through transcript submission and what to
expect with entrance testing, while our finance team can provide guidance on 
financial aid for those who qualify. We’ve built the process to move quickly, so
you know where you stand. You can read more about our admissions requirements on
our [Admissions page](https://arizonacollege.edu/admissions/).

Arizona College of Nursing has built a full support system to help you at every
step of the program. Our student support resources include a student success
coach, tutoring sessions, peer mentoring, faculty office hours, NCLEX-RN exam
prep class, and more.

Contact our admissions team to learn more about how we support you throughout
your nursing education. We’re committed to helping you pursue your goal of
becoming an RN.

Learn more about 
[why Arizona College of Nursing is right for you](https://arizonacollege.edu/accredited-bsn-program/why-azcn/)
.

Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN) – Ontario is not a 100% online nursing program
in California. However, most of our campuses offer some online nursing courses.
The AZCN curriculum includes a mixture of in-person, online, and blended
classes. At the majority of our campuses, many non-clinical courses are offered
asynchronously and delivered fully online, while nursing courses with a clinical
component are held in person.

Our general education courses also incorporate a blended learning experience,
including night and virtual classes, providing flexibility for our students.
Contact our admissions team to learn more about our online nursing course
formats at AZCN Ontario and how you can earn a BSN degree in just three years.

After completing your BSN degree and fulfilling California’s licensing
requirements, many nursing career paths may become available to you in the
Ontario area.

The following roles represent potential career directions for those who have
completed BSN education, passed the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtained proper state
licensure. These roles span hospitals, community settings, specialized units,
and leadership positions.

---

### Hospital-Based Roles in California

Registered Nurse (RN) – The foundation of nursing practice, working in various
healthcare settings.

Emergency Room Nurse – Providing urgent care in fast-paced emergency department
settings.

ICU Nurse / Critical Care Nurse – Caring for patients with life-threatening
conditions requiring intensive monitoring.

Labor and Delivery Nurse – Supporting mothers and newborns through the
childbirth process.

OR Nurse / Perioperative Nurse – Assisting in surgical procedures and providing
pre/post-operative care.

---

### Specialized Care Roles in California

Pediatric Nurse – Focusing on the healthcare needs of children and adolescents.

Hospice Nurse/Palliative Care Nurse – Providing compassionate end-of-life and
comfort care.

Home Health Nurse – Delivering care to patients in their homes, often following
hospital discharge.

Forensic Nurse – Working at the intersection of healthcare and the legal system.

---

### Nurse Manager & Administration Roles in California

Charge Nurse – Overseeing nursing operations for a unit during a specific shift.

Nurse Manager – Supervising nursing staff and handling administrative
responsibilities.
[Learn more about becoming a Nurse Manager](https://www.nursingcolleges.com/careers/nurse-manager)
.

Utilization Review Nurse – Evaluating the necessity and efficiency of healthcare
services.

---

### Community & Public Health Roles in California

Public Health Nurse – Addressing community health needs through education and
preventative care.

School Nurse – Providing healthcare services in educational settings.

Occupational Health Nurse – Focusing on workplace health and safety.

---

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), registered nurses held about
3.3 million jobs in 2023, with the largest percentage (58%) working in
hospitals. Other significant employment settings include ambulatory healthcare
services (19%), government agencies (6%), nursing and residential care
facilities (5%), and educational services (3%). Data last updated April 18,
2025. Source:
[https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm#tab-3](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm#tab-3)

Important Note: A BSN degree itself does not qualify individuals to work as
registered nurses. Additional steps including passing the NCLEX-RN examination
and obtaining state licensure are required before pursuing these career
opportunities.

The NCLEX-RN is for registered nurse licensure after you complete a BSN or ADN
nursing program, while the NCLEX-PN is for practical/vocational nurse licensure
after completing an LPN or LVN program. Both exams are developed by the National
Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and are required for nursing
licensure in the United States. For RNs in California, licensure allows for
greater autonomy, higher-level clinical responsibilities, and more opportunities
for career advancement compared to LPN licensure. Licensed practical nurses
typically work under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians.

The NCLEX exam is the licensing examination that you must pass to become a
registered nurse and practice legally. Passing this exam demonstrates that
you’ve met the minimum competency standards required for entry-level nursing
practice. The NCLEX exam is a standardized test used across all states to ensure
consistent nursing practice standards. Successfully completing it allows you to
apply for your nursing license and begin your professional nursing career in
California.

Arizona College of Nursing – Ontario
(909) 935-2744 
[info@arizonacollege.edu](https://arizonacollege.edu/ontario-nursing-school/info@arizonacollege.edu)
3401 N Centre Lake Drive, Ontario, CA 91761

## Accreditations

![CCNE Accredited Nursing School](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/logo-ccne-accredited.png)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of
Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (
[www.aacnnursing.org](https://www.aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation)).

![ABHES Accredited Nursing School](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/logo-abhes.png)

All Arizona College campuses are institutionally accredited by the 
[Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)](https://www.abhes.org/)
, a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.

_California NCLEX Pass Rate Data: [https://www.rn.ca.gov/](https://www.rn.ca.gov/education/passrates.shtml) _
_California BRN reports NCLEX pass rates July 1, 2024–June 30,2025; Internal
rate is for 2025; January–December.\*\*National NCLEX Pass Rates: 
[https://www.ncsbn.org/exams/exam-statistics-and-publications/nclex-pass-rates.page](https://www.ncsbn.org/exams/exam-statistics-and-publications/nclex-pass-rates.page)
\*\*\*Job placement rate is for the 2024 calendar year as reported in the 
[School Performance Fact Sheet](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/School-Performance-Fact-Sheet-Ontario-2023-2024.pdf)
 filed with the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE)