Best Nursing Schools in San Bernardino, CA 2025 – Accredited Nursing Degree Programs Online

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The city of San Bernardino in California has a population of 220,328 (U.S. Census, 2023). The seat of San Bernardino County, it is also considered the anchor city and the economic, political, and cultural hub of the Inland Empire region of Southern California. The Inland Empire, also known as the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario metropolitan statistical area, comprises San Bernardino County and Riverside County. San Bernardino County has a population of 2,193,656 while Riverside County’s population is estimated at 2,473,902 (U.S. Census, 2022). The city’s and the metropolitan area’s population size means a significant need for healthcare services.

California, however, is facing historic shortages of nurses and other health professionals, most of it resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. These shortages affect San Bernardino and the rest of Southern California. In fact, the Hospital Association of Southern California noted a 30% average nursing vacancy rate among local hospitals, up from a mere 6.4% during the pre-pandemic period (Hwang, K. 2023). Clearly, policymakers see new nurses from local nursing schools as a big help to fill these vacancies.

This nursing degree guide is created for those who are considering a nursing career in San Bernardino. Our team of experts at Research.com will give you a glimpse of what the nursing profession looks like in the city so you know what to expect. We also have a list of the best online nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA, to help you get started on your academic journey.

Best Nursing Schools in San Bernardino, CA 2025 Table of Contents

1. The State of Nursing in San Bernardino, CA
2. Why Become a Nurse in San Bernardino, CA
3. Local Community Health Needs in San Bernardino, CA
4. 2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in San Bernardino, CA
5. 2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in San Bernardino, CA
6. 2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in San Bernardino, CA
7. What are the clinical placement opportunities for nursing students in San Bernardino, CA?
8. How can nursing students in San Bernardino balance academics and clinical training effectively?
9. Exploring Flexible Nursing Education Options
10. How can I access cost-effective online FNP programs in San Bernardino?
11. What makes accelerated online DNP programs a strategic choice for nurses in San Bernardino?
12. What are the pathways to pursue a DNP after earning a BSN in San Bernardino?
13. What is the return on investment for nursing programs in San Bernardino?
14. What are the advantages of choosing a 2-semester LPN to RN program online in San Bernardino?
15. What Are the Key Considerations for an RN Bridge Program?
16. What Are the Benefits of Pursuing Specialized Nurse Practitioner Programs in San Bernardino?

The State of Nursing in San Bernardino, CA

There is a very high demand for nurses and other healthcare workers in San Bernardino and in the Riverside-San Bernardino metropolitan area, as with many parts of California. According to the California Health Care Foundation, more than 1,300,000 people in San Bernardino and Riverside counties are living in a Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Area. The shortage in San Bernardino alone prompted nurses to rally in 2022 and call for more staff, including traveling nurses, to fill in the gaps. Presently, the nurse-to-patient ratios are not meeting the level of care required by patients.

San Bernardino is home to several hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities that provide job opportunities for all kinds of nurses. There are also several nursing schools and training programs in San Bernardino and its surrounding region that offer nursing education at various levels. So whether you want to be a certified nurse assistant (CNA), a licensed practical or licensed vocational nurse (LPN/LVN), or a registered nurse (RN), there are programs available for you. If you are already an RN and ready to take on a bigger role, you can study to become a nurse practitioner (NP) or any other advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and pick from different concentrations and specialty career choices for nurses that are being offered.

The nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA, and in the state contribute to the pool of qualified nurses in the area. These schools and programs help ensure a steady supply of competent nursing professionals to meet the demand.

Graduates from California nursing schools have performed well in the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). In 2022, California’s average NCLEX pass rate was 83.7%, which was higher than the average national pass rate of $79.9.

Why Become a Nurse in San Bernardino, CA

There are good reasons why you should consider becoming a nurse in San Bernardino. On top of the list is the generally positive job outlook for nurses not just in the city but in the entire state. California’s healthcare industry has been undergoing sizable growth due to an aging population, increasing population growth, advances in medical technology, and other factors. These factors translate into a consistent demand for nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Another reason is San Bernardino’s diverse healthcare settings, which include hospitals, clinics, home healthcare agencies, and long-term care facilities. This diversity translates into a wide variety of nursing opportunities and nursing jobs in San Bernardino, California. It allows nurses to specialize in different areas of the healthcare industry. You can specialize in areas like pediatrics, critical care, gerontology, mental health, and women’s health, depending on your interests, your career goals, and the patients you want to work with.

Importantly, working as a nurse in San Bernardino is financially rewarding. You can take advantage of the competitive compensation for nursing professionals. To give you an idea, California not only has the highest employment level among RNs in the U.S., but it is also the top-paying state, paying RNs an annual average salary of $133,340 (BLS, 2023). This is way above the $89,010 national mean annual wage for RNs.

For a closer look at nurse salaries, you can check the figures for the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario metropolitan area. More specifically, RNs in the San Bernardino-Riverside MSA earn an annual average of $121,470, or $58.40 per hour (BLS, 2023).

Meanwhile, nurse practitioners in the San Bernardino-Riverside MSA get an average of $145,900 annually, or $70.15 per hour (BLS, 2023). Licensed practical or licensed vocational nurses earn an average annual wage of $64,880 or $31.19, and nursing assistants earn an average of $39,770 annually or $19.12.

Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Nurse in San Bernardino

How do I become a licensed RN in San Bernardino?

You can become a licensed RN in San Bernardino by completing an accredited RN associate degree program (ADN) or an accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program. You must then take and pass the NCLEX. Afterward, you can apply for a license and comply with the RN licensure requirements in California. You can check the California Board of Registered Nursing for its nursing application guidelines.

Are there free nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA?

Avail of financial aid for nursing students in California if you wish to pursue a nursing program without paying tuition and other fees. Many nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA, and in the county offer financial aid and scholarship programs to deserving students. So go ahead and apply for one.

Local Community Health Needs in San Bernardino, CA

San Bernardino faces significant health challenges that highlight the critical need for skilled nursing professionals. High rates of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease are prevalent, exacerbated by limited access to preventive care in underserved areas. Additionally, mental health issues have become increasingly common, with many residents lacking adequate resources or treatment options. The city also struggles with health disparities, particularly in low-income and minority communities, where access to healthcare remains a persistent barrier.

Nurses play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. For example, those trained through online acute care nurse practitioner programs can deliver advanced, patient-centered care for individuals with chronic or acute conditions, particularly in community clinics or underserved areas. Public health nurses can promote preventive measures through education on healthy living and early detection screenings. Furthermore, mental health nurses can help bridge the gap in behavioral healthcare by providing accessible counseling and support services.

2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in San Bernardino, CA

There are several schools in San Bernardino that offer entry-level nursing programs, particularly CNA, LPN, ADN, and BSN programs. However, there are no entry-level nursing programs online offered by nursing schools in the city. These programs are offered on campus and require in-person attendance for lectures and hands-on training.

Research.com widened its search to include nursing schools within the Riverside-San Bernardino metropolitan area, but online entry-level programs are also hard to come by.

You may, however, want to check out schools that offer hybrid entry-level programs:

Chaffey College: CNA

Chaffey College offers a nurse assistant program for those who want to become CNAs. The program is approved by the Department of Public Health, State of California (CDPH). It is designed to equip students with the information and skills they need to take the National Nursing Assistant Assessment Program state certification test. The program features lectures, group activities, practice on patient care skills, skills lab demonstrations, and progress assessments.

It is a part-time, 18-week program. While most classes are held at Chaffey’s Fontana or Chino campuses in San Bernardino County typically in the afternoon or evening and there are mandatory clinicals, the program does have an online component.

Baldy View Regional Occupational Program Commission: LVN

Baldy View in Ontario in San Bernardino County offers a vocational nursing program with a hybrid format that allows for distance and hands-on learning. The program prepares students to become licensed vocational nurses by teaching them the basic concepts of nutrition, pharmacology, anatomy, psychology, physiology, and medical-surgical nursing. Upon completion of the program’s required coursework, students will be prepared to take the NCLEX for licensure as a practical or vocational nurse.

American Career College: ADN

American Career College Ontario offers an associate degree in nursing program for those who want to become an RN in as little as 20 months. The school’s ADN program offers a convenient blend of online and in-person classes to give students some flexibility. There will, however, be hands-on training and clinical simulations to help students render healthcare services in various settings. Through the ADN program, students will learn how to run diagnostic tests, care for patients, manage treatment plans, and administer medicine. Upon completion, students will be ready to take the NCLEX.

American Career College’s ADN program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Smith Chason College: LVN, ADN

Smith Chason College‘s Ontario campus offers a licensed vocational nursing diploma program that prepares students to become LVNs by teaching them how to provide direct patient care and perform certain clinical and administrative tasks. As with other nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA, the college’s LVN program adopts a hybrid format and consists of five course levels that combine lecture hours, skill hours, and clinical hours. All lecture classes will be held online while skills and simulation labs will be done in person at the student’s assigned clinical site. The program also includes NCLEX preparation at every level.

Smith Chason’s NCLEX pass rate for its LVN graduates in the Ontario campus is 64%. The Los Angeles campus, meanwhile, has a pass rate of 76%.

The college also offers a hybrid ADN program on its LA campus. LA is only about an hour away from San Bernardino.

North-West College: LVN

North-West College offers LVN and LPN programs that teach students how to provide individual- and family-centered nursing care and help assess a patient’s basic needs. Its vocational program is offered in NWC’s Riverside campus. You can also enroll in its online training program.

This program is approved by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). It exceeds the BVNPT’s 1,530-clock-hour requirement. The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

NWC-Riverside’s LVN program has an average NCLEX pass rate of 78%.

2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in San Bernardino, CA

Our team looked into the top nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA that offer online bridge nursing programs. These include RN to BSN, RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), LPN to ADN, and even CNA to LPN programs online. We’ve also looked into nursing schools within the Riverside-San Bernardino metropolitan area.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for cheap RN to BSN program or other nursing programs online, consider the quality of the program and the faculty expertise. By doing so, you can ensure to receive a valuable education without exceeding your budget.

Loma Linda University: RN to BSN

Loma Linda University offers an online RN to BSN track designed for registered nurses with an ADN who want to earn their bachelor’s degree and take advantage of better job opportunities. This program prepares RNs for bigger roles in acute and community settings.

This RN to BSN program offers flexibility and has full-time working nurses in mind. Students can choose to study part-time or full-time with the benefit and convenience of online format. They can take up to 20 units of prerequisite courses online. The program can be completed in 2.5 years.

LLU’s RN to BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Loma Linda is in San Bernardino County.

California Baptist University: RN to BSN

California Baptist University in Riverside offers an RN to BSN program that is fully online. Clinical practicum experiences will be completed at local partner agencies and facilities. The program, accredited by the CCNE, is designed for licensed RNs to earn their bachelor’s degree in 12 to 16 months, depending on their transferable units.

CBU is the first four-year accredited university in Riverside County to be approved for an RN to BSN program.

Stanbridge University: RN to BSN

Stanbridge University‘s CCNE-accredited RN to BSN is a flexible, 100% online program that allows students to advance their education and further their careers without putting their lives on hold. This program is built on quality instruction, advanced physical assessment, evidence-based practice, and healthcare informatics.

Stanbridge has campuses in Riverside, Irvine, and Alhambra.

2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in San Bernardino, CA

If you are looking for advanced online nursing programs in San Bernardino, CA, such as MSN, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD in Nursing), and Post-Master’s Certification, we’ve checked the many schools in the area.

These are the two schools offering online advanced nursing degrees in San Bernardino, CA, and in the Riverside-San Bernardino region:

California State University, San Bernardino: MSN

California State University, San Bernardino offers a Master’s of Science in Nursing program with a hybrid online format. Most course lessons are delivered online, with a few in-person sessions. The face-to-face classes are scheduled either at CSUSB’s San Bernardino or Palm Desert campus. Students compete in a series of core courses and select from one of three available specializations or concentrations:

• Advanced Community/Public Health Nursing
• Population Health for Clinical Nurse Leaders
• Nurse Educator

If you study full-time, you can complete your MSN in two to two-and-a-half academic years.

CSUSB’s MSN program is accredited by the CCNE.

Loma Linda University: MSN, PhD in Nursing, DNP

Loma Linda University offers these online graduate nursing programs:

• MSN (Nurse Educator: Obstetrics and Pediatrics)
• MSN (Nursing Administration)
• DNP (Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)
• DPN (Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)
• DNP (Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
• DNP (Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
• DNP (Clinical Nurse Specialist: Adult-Gerontology)
• DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
• DNP (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner)
• DNP (Nurse Leadership)
• DNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
• MS to DNP
• PhD in Nursing (BSN to PhD)
• PhD in Nursing (MSN to PhD)

These are actually more hybrid programs that require a few days on campus each quarter. Students are also expected to complete face-to-face clinical courses and obtain clinical experience.

MSN programs can be completed in two to three years while DNP programs can be completed in three to five years.

These advanced education programs are accredited by the CCNE.

What are the clinical placement opportunities for nursing students in San Bernardino, CA?

Nursing students in San Bernardino, CA, have access to a variety of clinical placement opportunities across a wide range of healthcare settings. These placements are essential for students to gain hands-on experience, enhance their clinical skills, and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Some of the notable clinical placement opportunities available include:

• Local Hospitals: San Bernardino is home to several large hospitals, including Dignity Health - Community Hospital of San Bernardino and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. These institutions provide opportunities for nursing students to work in high-demand areas such as emergency care, critical care, and surgical nursing.
• Specialized Clinics: Students can gain experience in specialty fields like pediatrics, mental health, or women’s health through placements at local specialized clinics. Clinics like San Bernardino County Department of Public Health Clinics provide focused training in areas such as family planning, immunizations, and disease prevention.
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Nursing students interested in geriatric care can benefit from clinical placements in long-term care settings such as Shandin Hills Rehabilitation Center and other skilled nursing facilities. These placements help students understand the unique needs of elderly patients and those requiring long-term rehabilitation.
• Community Health Centers: Sac Health System and similar centers offer students experience in community nursing, where they work with underserved populations, learning to address social determinants of health and manage chronic diseases in outpatient settings.
• School-Based Health Programs: Some nursing schools collaborate with local school districts to place students in school health programs. These placements provide exposure to pediatric care and preventive healthcare initiatives for children and adolescents.

How can nursing students in San Bernardino balance academics and clinical training effectively?

Nursing programs in San Bernardino, CA, demand a rigorous combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on clinical training. Balancing these components can be challenging for students, especially those juggling other responsibilities like work or family. Here are practical strategies to help nursing students thrive:

1. Prioritize Time Management. Creating a detailed schedule that incorporates class hours, study sessions, and clinical shifts is essential. Tools like digital planners or apps can help students allocate time for both academic and practical learning efficiently.

2. Leverage Academic Resources. Many nursing schools in San Bernardino, such as Loma Linda University and California Baptist University, offer academic support like tutoring, study groups, and faculty office hours. Using these resources can help students grasp challenging concepts and prepare for clinical tasks.

3. Maximize Clinical Learning Opportunities. During clinical placements at renowned local facilities such as Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, students should actively engage with mentors, ask questions, and practice essential skills. This hands-on approach helps reinforce theoretical knowledge.

4. Embrace Flexibility with Hybrid Programs. Hybrid programs, such as the RN to BSN offerings at California Baptist University, allow students to complete coursework online, providing flexibility to manage clinical training and other commitments.

For more guidance on accessible nursing programs, visit our guide to the easiest nursing schools to get into, where you'll find tips for choosing programs that fit your lifestyle and career aspirations.

Exploring Flexible Nursing Education Options

Prospective nursing students in San Bernardino, CA, often seek programs that offer the flexibility to accommodate their varied schedules and commitments. Online and hybrid nursing programs are increasingly popular, as they provide the convenience of remote learning coupled with the critical hands-on training required in the field.

For example, individuals aiming to fast-track their nursing education may find value in programs designed for accelerated learning. Notably, 1 year nurse practitioner programs are an excellent option for registered nurses who wish to expedite their path toward becoming advanced practice nurses. These programs allow professionals to enhance their expertise and qualifications without compromising their current job or personal responsibilities.

By choosing flexible formats and leveraging online platforms, students can tailor their education to suit their goals and circumstances, making nursing a more accessible and achievable profession for many.

Land Your Dream Career Through Nursing Schools in San Bernardino, CA

There are many benefits to pursuing any of the entry-level and advanced RN programs in San Bernardino, California. The cheapest BSN to MSN online and other nursing programs are also easily accessible. For one, nursing is a high-demand field in the state, so you will likely be able to find a job quickly after graduation from nursing schools in San Bernardino California. The state is known as one of the top-paying states for nursing professionals, so you can earn a high salary once you join the workforce.

Another great thing about being a nurse in San Bernardino is the opportunities to advance your career. For example, you can move up the hierarchical ladder and become an NP by pursuing a nurse practitioner degree online while you continue working. You can also choose to become a nurse educator, nurse midwife, or a nurse anesthetist, among many other options.

How can I access cost-effective online FNP programs in San Bernardino?

In San Bernardino, selecting an affordable online Family Nurse Practitioner program involves assessing tuition, scholarship opportunities, and clinical placement support. Prospective students must prioritize programs with robust accreditation and transparent fee structures to ensure financial sustainability without compromising educational quality. Leverage reputable resources such as the most affordable FNP programs guide for detailed insights on balancing cost-effectiveness with advanced clinical training.

What makes accelerated online DNP programs a strategic choice for nurses in San Bernardino?

Accelerated online DNP programs offer a streamlined pathway for experienced BSN-prepared nurses to advance their clinical leadership and practice expertise while maintaining work-life balance. These programs feature innovative digital platforms, simulation-based learning, and rigorous clinical integration that align with San Bernardino’s high healthcare demands. By leveraging flexible scheduling and condensed curricula, nurses can continue practicing and contributing to local care settings as they pursue advanced credentials. For professionals eyeing efficient career advancement, accelerated online DNP programs provide a competitive edge in both academic rigor and practical application.

What are the pathways to pursue a DNP after earning a BSN in San Bernardino?

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs offer an advanced route for BSN graduates aiming for leadership and specialized clinical roles. In San Bernardino, candidates can assess accredited accelerated pathways that require a BSN as a foundation, ensure compliance with specific clinical hour requirements, and meet stringent application prerequisites. Evaluating program outcomes and accreditation status is essential to align with current healthcare standards. For cost-effective options, review the cheapest BSN to DNP programs available online. An informed transition from a BSN to a DNP degree can enhance professional expertise, drive career advancement, and promote improved patient care through evidence-based practice.

What is the return on investment for nursing programs in San Bernardino?

Evaluating the return on investment for nursing education involves examining tuition expenses, program duration, clinical training scope, and subsequent salary potential. Accelerated tracks can reduce the time required to transition into higher-paying roles, thereby shortening the period before recouping educational costs. In this context, options like RN to BSN online 6 months offer an expedited pathway that aligns with rigorous academic standards while aiming for a quicker entry into competitive nursing positions. By comparing cost-per-credit rates, available financial aid, and regional salary benchmarks, prospective nurses can strategically select programs that enhance both career advancement and long-term financial outcomes.

What are the advantages of choosing a 2-semester LPN to RN program online in San Bernardino?

This accelerated bridge pathway provides LPNs with a streamlined transition to registered nursing by compressing coursework into a focused 2-semester format. The 2-semester LPN to RN program online leverages flexible online instruction combined with targeted clinical placements in local healthcare facilities, ensuring compliance with California licensure requirements while cultivating practical competencies. Participants benefit from contemporary simulation labs, experienced mentorship, and an expedited route to gain competitive employment in San Bernardino’s high-demand healthcare sector.

What Are the Key Considerations for an RN Bridge Program?

When evaluating an RN bridge program, prospective students should assess accreditation standards, curriculum depth, and long-term career outcomes. It is essential to verify that the program aligns with state licensure requirements and leverages partnerships with local healthcare facilities to offer robust clinical placements. Consider factors such as faculty expertise, student-to-clinician ratios, and evidence-based teaching methods that ensure high NCLEX pass rates and competitive career advancement. Additionally, examine program flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and how the curriculum prepares graduates for advanced roles. For a comprehensive review of quality bridging options, visit the RN bridge program.

What Are the Benefits of Pursuing Specialized Nurse Practitioner Programs in San Bernardino?

Specialized nurse practitioner tracks enable nurses to tailor their expertise to high-demand areas that address unique community health challenges, such as mental health and behavioral care. In San Bernardino, these focused programs provide advanced clinical training with specialized curricula, simulation-based learning, and structured clinical partnerships that enhance real-world practice. They also offer improved career mobility and increased earning potential by equipping practitioners with niche skills. For added insight into opportunities in this field, consider exploring affordable psych NP programs online.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Nurses: San Bernardino and the larger Inland Empire region face significant shortages in nursing staff, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The nursing vacancy rate in local hospitals is approximately 30%.
• Nursing Job Market: San Bernardino offers a diverse range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, home healthcare agencies, and long-term care facilities, creating numerous opportunities for specialization and career advancement.
• Competitive Salaries: California is the top-paying state for nurses, with RNs in the San Bernardino-Riverside-Ontario area earning an average annual salary of $121,470. Nurse practitioners in the area earn an average of $145,900 annually.
• Strong NCLEX Performance: Graduates from California nursing schools have a higher-than-average NCLEX pass rate of 83.7%, compared to the national average of 79.9%.
• Educational Opportunities: San Bernardino offers a variety of entry-level, bridge, and advanced nursing programs. Several local institutions provide flexible online or hybrid formats, allowing working professionals to further their education while maintaining their jobs.

FAQ

How do I become a licensed RN in San Bernardino?

To become a licensed RN in San Bernardino, you need to complete an accredited RN associate degree (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. After completing your education, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Are there free nursing schools in San Bernardino, CA?

While there are no completely free nursing schools, many institutions in San Bernardino offer financial aid and scholarship programs to help cover tuition and other fees. It is advisable to apply for these financial assistance programs to reduce the cost of your nursing education.

What are the best entry-level nursing programs in San Bernardino?

Some of the top entry-level nursing programs in San Bernardino include Chaffey College's CNA program, Baldy View Regional Occupational Program Commission's LVN program, American Career College Ontario's ADN program, Smith Chason College's LVN program, and North-West College's LVN program.

What bridge programs are available for nurses in San Bernardino?

Notable bridge programs in San Bernardino include Loma Linda University's RN to BSN program, California Baptist University's RN to BSN program, and Stanbridge University's RN to BSN program. These programs offer flexible, often fully online formats to accommodate working nurses.

What advanced nursing programs are offered in San Bernardino?

Advanced nursing programs in San Bernardino include California State University, San Bernardino's MSN program and Loma Linda University's extensive range of MSN, DNP, and PhD in Nursing programs. These programs are designed to prepare nurses for leadership roles and advanced practice positions.

What is the job outlook for nurses in San Bernardino?

The job outlook for nurses in San Bernardino is positive, driven by an aging population, advances in medical technology, and population growth. There is a consistent demand for nurses, making it a stable and rewarding career choice.

What are the salary expectations for nurses in San Bernardino?

Registered nurses in the San Bernardino-Riverside-Ontario metropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $121,470, while nurse practitioners earn an average of $145,900 annually. Licensed practical or vocational nurses earn an average annual wage of $64,880, and nursing assistants earn about $39,770 annually.

Can I complete nursing programs online in San Bernardino?

Yes, many nursing schools in San Bernardino offer online or hybrid programs. For example, Loma Linda University and California Baptist University offer fully online RN to BSN programs, while other schools offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training.

What financial aid options are available for nursing students in San Bernardino?

Nursing students in San Bernardino can apply for various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Many institutions offer specific financial aid programs for nursing students to help reduce the cost of tuition and other expenses.

What career advancement opportunities are available for nurses in San Bernardino?

Nurses in San Bernardino have numerous opportunities for career advancement. They can pursue advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, nurse midwives, or nurse anesthetists. Further education through MSN, DNP, or PhD programs can help nurses move into leadership positions and specialized fields within healthcare.

References:

• United States Census Bureau. (2022). QuickFacts | San Bernardino County, California; San Bernardino City, California. U.S. Census.
• United States Census Bureau. (2022). QuickFacts | Riverside County, California. U.S. Census.
• Hospital Association of Southern California. (2019). Southern California’s Health Care Workforce: Challenges, Approaches and Solutions. HASC.
• Hwang, K. (2023, July 31). California needs thousands of nurses, but leaders can’t agree on how to fill jobs. CalMatters.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 29-1141 Registered Nurses. BLS.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 29-1171 Nurse Practitioners. BLS.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 29-2061 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses. BLS.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2022 | 31-1131 Nursing Assistants. BLS.