Best Nursing Schools in Long Beach, CA 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Within the vibrant Los Angeles County, Long Beach, California boasts a robust healthcare ecosystem. This explains why nursing schools in Long Beach offer aspiring healthcare professionals a gateway to a rewarding and dynamic career. These institutions provide comprehensive programs that endow students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in nursing.

Providing quality nursing programs in Long Beach and nearby cities is the state’s response to California’s persistent shortage of registered nurses. The supply of RNs as of 2022 is 6.2% below demand, and the state is expecting to fill the demand by 2029 (Spetz et al., 2022). Some contributing factors include the aging nurses planning to quit within the next two years, school closures, and burnout due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the shortages of RNs in California underway, employers are doubling their efforts to retain nurses and further promote the benefits of pursuing a nursing career to new graduates. In line with this, Research.com explores the nursing schools in Long Beach and nearby cities to help students choose a program that aligns with their career goals.

Best Nursing Schools in Long Beach, CA Table of Contents

1. The State of Nursing in Long Beach
2. Why become a nurse in Long Beach?
3. Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Schools in Long Beach
4. List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Long Beach
5. Best Advanced Nursing Schools in Long Beach
6. Simulation Labs and Technology in Nursing Education in Long Beach
7. Flexible Learning Opportunities for Aspiring Nurses
8. How do nursing schools in Long Beach support student mental health and well-being?
9. How do nursing schools in Long Beach help students achieve career growth?
10. What are the nurse practitioner education requirements in Long Beach?
11. What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for nursing students in Long Beach?
12. How can non-nursing graduates transition into nursing careers in Long Beach?
13. How can flexible RN to BSN online programs boost career advancement for nurses?
14. What advantages do accelerated online BSN programs offer for Long Beach nursing careers?
15. What job placement and career support services do Long Beach nursing schools offer?
16. How can nurses access affordable online advanced practice education?

The State of Nursing in Long Beach

The state of nursing in Long Beach, CA is strong. One reason is that the city is home to several hospitals and healthcare facilities, which create a demand for nurses. This includes the Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, and the VA Long Beach Healthcare System.

Overall, California remains an attractive place to practice as a bedside nurse. This is due to the state’s mandate on minimum safe nurse-to-patient staffing ratios in acute-care hospitals. As such, full-time employment for RNs grew almost 8% faster than in other states (California Nurses Association, 2023).

Staffing constraints brought on by the pandemic are also seeing significant improvements. The average number of California hospitals reporting critical staffing shortages dropped from 20.7% in 2020 to 1.9% in 2023 (US Department of Health and Human Services, 2023).

The state is also making a conscious effort to promote diversity in the RN workforce. The Implicit Bias Requirement, which took effect in January 2023, requires nurses within two years of holding their license to complete an hour of continuing education in implicit bias course. However, nursing schools in Long Beach and California must continue investing in public community college nursing programs to attract socioeconomically diverse students.

Despite that, the city remains home to some of the best nursing schools in Long Beach. For instance, the California State University Long Beach’s School of Nursing boasts a 99.3% NCLEX-RN pass rate. This proves that aspiring nurses can access quality RN as well as cheap RN to BSN online programs in Long Beach.

Why become a nurse in Long Beach?

There are many compelling reasons aspiring nurses should consider working in Long Beach. For one, registered nurses in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area earn an average of $83,890 to $165,810 yearly (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). It is also one of the metropolitan areas with the highest employment of RNs.

Other than the abundant job opportunities and competitive salaries, there are other reasons to attend nursing schools in Long Beach and pursue a career in the city:

• Diverse Patient Population: Long Beach is known for its diverse and multicultural population. Thus, nurses can work with a wide range of patients from various backgrounds, allowing them to gain valuable experience and cultural competence.
• Quality Healthcare Institutions: Long Beach is home to reputable healthcare institutions like Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center. These facilities provide nurses with access to state-of-the-art resources and opportunities for professional development.
• Continuing Education Opportunities: California is committed to advancing healthcare, allowing students to pursue the highest degree in nursing. A Long Beach nursing school that offers master nursing online or doctoral degrees allow nurses to further their career.
• Strong Nursing Community: Many nursing organizations are located in Long Beach. This includes the Long Beach Nurses Association and the California Nurses Association, which provide support and advocacy for nurses in the area.

Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Schools in Long Beach

Aspiring nurses in Long Beach can consider enrolling in the city’s cheapest ADN online programs or other entry-level nursing degrees. To help students choose the nursing schools in Long Beach, our research team gathered valuable information to create this list of entry-level Long Beach nursing programs.

1. North-West College in Long Beach

The North-West College‘s Certificate in Vocational Nursing is a nine-month program where students learn how to provide direct patient care. Graduates of this program will be equipped with basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology of the human body, medical and surgical treatment of adult patients, and essential preparation and administration of medications. As such, vocational nurses are ready to work alongside physicians, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals in various settings.

• Program Length: Nine months
• Tracks/concentrations: Medical-surgical nursing, maternal health, child health
• Cost per credit: $353
• Required Credits to Graduate: 56
• Accreditation: California Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians

2. Los Angeles Harbor College

The Associate Degree in Nursing at Los Angeles Harbor College teaches students to be safe, competent, and caring practitioners. The program features theoretical instruction in the classroom and clinical experiences in healthcare settings, preparing them for an entry-level position. As such, graduates of this program can use evidence-based nursing practices to provide optimal patient care.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Nursing process and practice in the care of adults, women, children, and geriatric clients
• Cost per credit: $46 (California residents), $299 (Non-residents)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 101
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

3. University of California, Irvine

The Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing at the University of California, Irvine is one of the top-raking nursing schools in Long Beach and nearby cities. One reason is that their curriculum combines theory and research-based practice that focuses on human caring, clinical knowledge, and critical thinking. Moreover, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at UCI allows students to explore becoming a public health nurse, taking on leadership roles, or pursuing a specialized concentration.

• Program Length: Four years
• Tracks/concentrations: Foundations of nursing practice, human behavior and mental health care, maternity and women’s health care, critical and specialty health care, community-based health care
• Cost per credit: $266
• Required Credits to Graduate: 189
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. Los Angeles County College of Nursing & Allied Health

The Los Angeles County College of Nursing & Allied Health offers an Associate of Science in Nursing. This program prepares students for a nursing career, making them eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam. Moreover, they can have clinical experience at health services hospitals and comprehensive health centers.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Medical-surgical and gerontological nursing, psychiatric nursing, maternal-child nursing
• Cost per credit: $133
• Required Credits to Graduate: 73
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

5. Santa Monica College

The hybrid Associate of Science in Nursing program from Santa Monica College can be a student’s first step to becoming a registered nurse. Aside from earning an associate degree, they will be eligible for NCLEX-RN. Moreover, students are encouraged to pursue a bachelor’s degree at their partner universities.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Pharmacology, multicultural health and healing practices
• Cost per credit: $46 (California residents), $316 (Non-residents)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 68
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in Long Beach

Nurses with an entry-level degree may pursue a bridge program, such as an LPN to BSN online program, to take the next step in this career. Whatever entry-level degree they have, the following nursing schools in Long Beach offer bridge programs to advance their studies and careers.

1. California State University in Long Beach

The online RN-to-BSN program from California State University Long Beach caters to students with ADN who hold a California RN license. This is the university’s response to meeting the state’s workforce needs. The online program teaches students to improve patient and organizational outcomes and apply evidence-based practice.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Pathophysiology, healthcare assessment and delivery, holistic therapies
• Cost per credit: $600
• Required Credits to Graduate: 29
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. Concordia University

Students with at least 65 non-nursing college credits from an accredited school who want to transition to nursing can consider enrolling in Concordia University. Their hybrid accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is built on the foundation of a student’s prior coursework, enabling them to complete their BSN degree in 15 months. Students are also assigned to clinical sites in Southern California every semester, wherein they can complete the 765 clinical hours required to finish the ABSN program.

• Program Length: One to two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Health assessment, adult medical and surgical care
• Cost per credit: $930
• Required Credits to Graduate: 59
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

3. Rio Hondo College

Licensed vocational nurses who want to pursue a career as registered nurses can take the LVN-to-ADN program at Rio Hondo College. Students can expect to learn about physical assessment, nursing diagnosis, interventions, and evaluations — skills required to provide primary patient care. This associate degree program also exposes them to simulated clinical experience that they can leverage to enhance their performance in various healthcare settings.

• Program Length: One year
• Tracks/concentrations: Human anatomy, microbiology, medical-surgical nursing,
• Cost per credit: $46 (California residents), $342 (Non-residents)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 73
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges

4. Long Beach City College

The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Long Beach City College is designed to meet the community’s evolving healthcare needs. As such, students can expect to learn about the foundational concepts of nursing and how to care for patients with common acute and chronic conditions. Graduates of this program can pursue a career as a registered nurse in acute care hospitals.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Medical-surgical nursing, mental health care, microbiology, physiology
• Cost per credit: $46 (California residents), $269 (Non-residents)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 60
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

5. Angeles College

Graduates of accredited associated degrees in nursing who are employed as registered nurses can pursue higher education at Angeles College. Their cheap RN-to-BSN online program allows students to earn their bachelor’s degree in three years and develop the skills to become effective RN managers and administrators. In addition to taking courses in nursing assessment, clinical quality improvement, and leadership, students must also have 40 lab hours and 150 clinical hours to complete the program.

• Program Length: Three years
• Tracks/concentrations: Nursing assessment, clinical quality improvement, nursing leadership
• Cost per credit: $220
• Required Credits to Graduate: 92
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Best Advanced Nursing Schools in Long Beach

Enrolling in nursing schools in Long Beach that offer graduate nursing programs allows students to develop their expertise and have a specialization. Nurses who want to serve a particular patient demographic or take on a leadership role may consider the following universities.

1. California State University in Long Beach

Nurses who aim to be educators or care for children and older adults may take the BSN to DNP program at California State University Long Beach. This program facilitates advanced nursing practice, leadership, and teaching roles. They will learn about health policy and advocacy, evidence-based inquiry, and high-level competencies.

• Program Length: Three years
• Tracks/concentrations: Primary and acute adult-gerontology care, family practice, pediatric primary care, psychiatric mental health care
• Cost per credit: $612
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. University of California, Irvine

Students keen on nursing research may want to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science at the University of California, Irvine. The Ph.D. program prepares students to contribute to nursing’s growing body of knowledge. This includes combining translational science methods with traditional research models to address the healthcare needs of local, national, and global communities.

• Program Length: Three to five years
• Tracks/concentrations: Integrative health and wellness promotion, community health, health disparities and diversity
• Cost per credit: $1,081
• Required Credits to Graduate: 138
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

3. Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

The Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing program at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is designed for non-nursing baccalaureate degree holders keen to earn a graduate degree in nursing. In this program, just like a master nursing online option, allows students to learn how to provide patient care within a supportive environment and nursing research on community health issues. Students will also have a clinical immersion experience, allowing them to develop their skills in prioritization of care, interdisciplinary communication, and team management.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Medical-surgical nursing practice, psychiatric and mental health care, population health, leadership and management
• Cost per credit: $961
• Required Credits to Graduate: 81
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. University of San Francisco

Registered nurses who want to gain experience managing patient care plans should consider enrolling at the University of San Francisco. Students can complete the university’s online RN-to-MSN program in two years, wherein they can learn how to provide health education to healthcare providers and improve patient care and safety. What makes this program unique is the Writing Center access, which ensures students are supported.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Leadership and healthcare, medical-surgical nursing, evidence-based patient safety and improvement, financial resource management
• Cost per credit: $847
• Required Credits to Graduate: 68
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

5. University of the Pacific

The entry-level Master of Science in Nursing at the University of the Pacific promises students that they will excel in nursing. This accelerated nursing program teaches students to deliver safe, equitable, patient-centered care through state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on experience. As such, graduates have various choices, like becoming a teacher for aspiring nurses or shaping the community’s healthcare policies.

• Program Length: Two years
• Tracks/concentrations: Health assessment, nursing of adults and older adults, clinical improvement, public health and population-based nursing
• Cost per credit: $1,056
• Required Credits to Graduate: 90
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Simulation Labs and Technology in Nursing Education in Long Beach

Nursing schools in Long Beach, CA, are at the forefront of incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance student learning and clinical preparation. Long Beach City College and California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), for example, offer state-of-the-art simulation labs where students can practice high-pressure medical scenarios in a safe, controlled environment. These labs feature high-fidelity mannequins that mimic real-life physiological responses, providing nursing students with opportunities to refine their skills in everything from emergency care to routine patient assessments.

Additionally, CSULB has integrated virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) into their nursing programs, allowing students to explore complex anatomy and practice procedures in a digital, 3D space. This innovative approach is particularly beneficial in reinforcing concepts that can be difficult to visualize, like cardiovascular or respiratory systems.

For nurses looking to advance their careers, Long Beach nursing schools offer flexible pathways like BSN to FNP programs online. These programs allow students to work toward becoming Family Nurse Practitioners while benefiting from the practical experience and clinical training that local partnerships with healthcare facilities like Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and St. Mary Medical Center provide.

Incorporating such advanced technology ensures that nursing graduates in Long Beach are proficient in traditional patient care and well-prepared to handle the increasingly digital and tech-driven landscape of modern healthcare.

Flexible Learning Opportunities for Aspiring Nurses

Nursing schools in Long Beach understand the evolving needs of today’s students, especially those balancing work, family, and education. To accommodate these demands, many institutions offer flexible learning options such as online and hybrid programs. These formats allow students to manage their schedules effectively while pursuing quality education that aligns with their career goals.

Prospective nurses aiming to bypass the intense competition of traditional admissions may consider exploring pathways like the easiest MSN programs to get into. These programs are tailored to provide accessible entry points without compromising academic rigor or practical training. Flexible scheduling and reduced on-campus requirements for such programs enable aspiring registered nurses or nursing leaders to advance their education and careers confidently and efficiently.

For students pursuing flexibility and advancement, a well-rounded approach combining state-of-the-art technology, supportive faculty, and adaptable course structures contributes significantly to their success. This initiative ensures that students from diverse backgrounds, including working professionals and parents, have equal opportunities to thrive in the nursing field.

How do nursing schools in Long Beach support student mental health and well-being?

Nursing schools in Long Beach recognize the demands of rigorous academic programs and the mental strain that healthcare training can impose. As a result, many schools offer a variety of resources and programs aimed at supporting student mental health:

• On-Campus Counseling Services: Schools often provide access to counseling and mental health services, offering students a confidential space to address stress, anxiety, and academic challenges.
• Stress Management Workshops: Programs frequently include workshops on time management, coping with stress, and developing resilience, equipping students with techniques to balance studies and personal well-being.
• Peer Support Groups: Many institutions host peer-led support groups where students can connect, share experiences, and support one another, creating a sense of community and belonging.
• Mindfulness and Wellness Programs: Schools may offer wellness programs, such as yoga classes, mindfulness sessions, or guided meditation, helping students manage their mental health proactively.

How do nursing schools in Long Beach help students achieve career growth?

Nursing schools in Long Beach provide solutions to help students advance their careers by addressing key challenges in education and the workplace. For instance, they prioritize specialized certifications and advanced practice training, enabling nurses to take on roles in high-demand fields like gerontology, family practice, or leadership. Programs often integrate evidence-based practice, healthcare technology, and patient advocacy to prepare students for leadership roles in evolving healthcare systems.

To ensure practical readiness, schools collaborate with leading healthcare institutions like Long Beach Memorial Medical Center for clinical placements, offering students exposure to diverse specialties and patient populations. Additionally, mentorship programs and career workshops equip nurses with professional development tools such as resume building, networking strategies, and interview preparation. This holistic approach ensures graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands.

For those navigating barriers such as competitive admissions, exploring pathways like programs from the easiest nursing schools to get into can provide flexible solutions while maintaining a focus on long-term career growth. 

What are the nurse practitioner education requirements in Long Beach?

To advance beyond entry-level nursing, prospective nurse practitioners must meet clearly defined education benchmarks. Accredited programs emphasize rigorous academic coursework, extensive clinical rotations, and evidence-based practice integration to ensure graduates are fully prepared for advanced clinical roles. In Long Beach, aspiring nurse practitioners are encouraged to evaluate curricula that offer robust bridge pathways, such as ADN-to-MSN programs, which specifically address the nurse practitioner education requirements while aligning with state and national licensure standards. Additionally, prospective students should consider program-specific prerequisites, including standardized test scores and verified clinical experiences, which collectively fortify the transition from registered nurse to advanced practice provider.

Become a Practice-ready Nurse and Leader in Long Beach

Nursing schools in Long Beach and nearby cities are valuable gateways to a fulfilling career in healthcare. Aspiring nurses are presented with a wealth of educational opportunities, each tailored to meet the diverse needs of future healthcare professionals. These institutions offer comprehensive curricula and the necessary support and resources to ensure graduates have a fulfilling and rewarding career.

Before embarking on their nursing journey, prospective students should carefully review nursing school prerequisites. These requirements are essential benchmarks for admission into nursing programs. Ensuring these prerequisites are met and thoroughly prepared for will lay a strong foundation for success throughout nursing education.

What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for nursing students in Long Beach?

Financial support is a critical factor in reducing the overall cost of nursing education. Local institutions and affiliated healthcare organizations offer a range of opportunities—from need-based and merit scholarships to work-study programs and tuition reimbursement plans. Prospective students are encouraged to engage with financial aid offices to explore federal aid packages, community-based grants, and specialized funds available through regional foundations. Additionally, streamlined online pathways, such as rn to msn online programs, often include financial counseling services and flexible payment plans designed to enhance accessibility and manage costs effectively.

How can non-nursing graduates transition into nursing careers in Long Beach?

Non-nursing graduates seeking a career change can take advantage of accelerated programs designed to bridge academic gaps and facilitate a smooth transition into healthcare. Many local institutions have established pathways that emphasize foundational healthcare theory, clinical skills development, and leadership training to ensure that students from diverse academic backgrounds are well-prepared for the rigor of nursing education. These programs often provide intensive coursework combined with clinical placements in reputable local healthcare facilities, reinforcing practical competencies and professional growth. Interested candidates are encouraged to explore options such as direct entry MSN programs for non-nurses online to access tailored solutions that accelerate their entry into the nursing profession while meeting the demands of Long Beach’s dynamic healthcare ecosystem.

How can flexible RN to BSN online programs boost career advancement for nurses?

Nurses aiming to elevate their clinical expertise and leadership capabilities can benefit from streamlined educational pathways that align with industry needs. Enrolling in flexible RN to BSN online programs offers a targeted approach to upgrade credentials without disrupting work-life balance. These programs emphasize practical application and contemporary healthcare trends, which directly facilitate expanded clinical roles and improved patient care in Long Beach’s dynamic healthcare settings.

What advantages do accelerated online BSN programs offer for Long Beach nursing careers?

Accelerated online BSN programs present a streamlined option for motivated individuals seeking to enter the nursing workforce rapidly while maintaining high academic and clinical standards. These programs are designed to integrate rigorous coursework with practical training through modern simulation labs and well-established clinical partnerships available in Long Beach. With an emphasis on flexibility, they cater to students balancing professional or personal commitments without compromising the depth of learning. For more detailed comparisons on curriculum, graduation rates, and career outcomes, prospective students can review accelerated online BSN programs to guide their decision-making process.

What job placement and career support services do Long Beach nursing schools offer?

Long Beach nursing programs deliver tailored career support through dedicated job placement services, industry networking events, resume workshops, and career fairs that facilitate direct engagement with leading healthcare employers. Institutional partnerships with local hospitals and health systems enhance students' exposure to real-world employment opportunities, while active alumni networks and mentorship initiatives provide ongoing guidance and industry insights. For those seeking advanced degree options to further propel their careers, consider exploring accelerated DNP nursing programs online, which integrate career development with flexible advanced education.

How can nurses access affordable online advanced practice education?

Nurses aspiring to elevate their clinical roles can explore specialized online tracks that streamline the path to advanced practice. Programs such as affordable family nurse practitioner programs online offer a cost-effective and flexible solution for obtaining critical credentials. These online options are designed to integrate rigorous coursework with practical leadership and patient care management, allowing nurses to pursue advanced roles while accommodating their existing work and personal commitments.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Nurses: Long Beach faces a persistent shortage of registered nurses, with the supply of RNs as of 2022 being 6.2% below demand. The state expects to fill this demand by 2029, emphasizing the need for more nursing professionals.
• Competitive Salaries: Registered nurses in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area earn between $83,890 and $165,810 annually, making it one of the highest-paying regions for nurses.
• Diverse Patient Population: Long Beach’s multicultural population provides nurses with opportunities to gain valuable experience and cultural competence by working with patients from various backgrounds.
• Quality Healthcare Institutions: Long Beach is home to reputable healthcare facilities like Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center, offering nurses access to state-of-the-art resources and professional development.
• Educational Opportunities: Long Beach offers a range of nursing programs, from entry-level to advanced degrees, allowing nurses to pursue continuous education and specialization.
• Supportive Nursing Community: Local organizations, such as the Long Beach Nurses Association and the California Nurses Association, provide support and advocacy for nurses in the area.
• Efforts to Address Staffing Issues: Staffing constraints brought on by the pandemic are seeing improvements, with a significant drop in hospitals reporting critical staffing shortages from 2020 to 2023.

FAQ

Is becoming a nurse in Long Beach a good career choice?

Yes, becoming a nurse in Long Beach is a good career choice due to the high demand for nurses, competitive salaries, diverse patient population, and the presence of reputable healthcare institutions offering excellent professional development opportunities.

What are the best entry-level nursing programs in Long Beach?

Some of the best entry-level nursing programs in Long Beach include the Certificate in Vocational Nursing at North-West College, the Associate Degree in Nursing at Los Angeles Harbor College, and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of California, Irvine.

What are the benefits of working as a nurse in Long Beach?

Benefits of working as a nurse in Long Beach include competitive salaries, abundant job opportunities, diverse clinical experiences, access to quality healthcare institutions, and a supportive nursing community.

What are the bridge programs available for nurses in Long Beach?

Bridge programs available in Long Beach include the online RN-to-BSN program at California State University Long Beach, the accelerated BSN program at Concordia University, and the LVN-to-ADN program at Rio Hondo College.

What advanced nursing programs are offered in Long Beach?

Advanced nursing programs offered in Long Beach include the BSN to DNP program at California State University Long Beach, the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science at the University of California, Irvine, and the Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

What are the key factors contributing to the nursing shortage in California?

Key factors contributing to the nursing shortage in California include the aging nursing workforce, school closures, and burnout due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

How are employers in Long Beach addressing the nursing shortage?

Employers in Long Beach are addressing the nursing shortage by doubling their efforts to retain nurses, promoting the benefits of pursuing a nursing career to new graduates, and supporting continuous education and professional development.

What are the typical salaries for nurses in Long Beach?

Registered nurses in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area earn between $83,890 and $165,810 annually, depending on factors such as experience, specialization, and location within Long Beach.

What is the significance of the Implicit Bias Requirement for nurses in California?

The Implicit Bias Requirement, which took effect in January 2023, mandates that nurses complete an hour of continuing education in implicit bias within two years of holding their license. This aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in the nursing workforce.

What should prospective nursing students in Long Beach consider before enrolling in a program?

Prospective nursing students in Long Beach should consider program accreditation, curriculum, cost, clinical training opportunities, and the school's reputation. They should also ensure they meet the nursing school prerequisites to strengthen their foundation for success in nursing education.

What community engagement and outreach opportunities do Long Beach nursing schools offer to students?

Long Beach nursing schools offer numerous community engagement and outreach opportunities, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings while making a positive impact. These schools often partner with local hospitals, clinics, and nonprofit organizations to provide healthcare services to underserved populations. Students may participate in health fairs, vaccination drives, and wellness programs targeting the city's diverse communities. Additionally, some programs offer service-learning courses that integrate community service with academic learning. These experiences not only enhance clinical skills but also foster a deep understanding of public health challenges, preparing students to be compassionate and culturally competent healthcare providers.

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Registered Nurses. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm#st
• California Board of Registered Nursing (2023). Monthly Statistics. Retrieved from https://rn.ca.gov/consumers/stats.shtml
• California Nurses Association (2022). Protecting and Retaining California’s Nursing Workforce. Retrieved from https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/research
• Spetz et al. (2022). “Forecasts of Registered Nurse Workforce in California," University of California San Francisco. Retrieved from https://www.rn.ca.gov/forms/reports.shtml#rnsurvey
• US Department of Health and Human Services (2023). Critical Staffing Shortage in California. Retrieved from https://healthdata.gov/Hospital/Critical-Staffing-Shortage-by-day-/yu7x-wxqv