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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

According to the San Diego Tourism Authority, San Diego ranks as California’s second-largest city and the eighth-largest in the United States. It is home to almost 1.3 million residents across its urban area (SDTA, 2023). Furthermore, California’s San Diego-Carlsbad metropolitan statistical area had a substantial workforce of 28,890 registered nurses (RN) as of May 2022 (BLS, 2023).

San Diego is also known for having accredited nursing degree programs. The nursing schools in San Diego present undergraduate options, including Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to Registered Nurse (RN), LPN or LVN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), and RN to BSN programs.

At Research.com, our team has comprehensively assessed the 2025 undergraduate programs offered by nursing schools in San Diego. This article will provide an overview of the top entry-level and graduate programs for individuals aspiring to pursue a nursing career in San Diego.

Best Nursing Schools in San Diego 2025 Table of Contents

The State of Nursing in San Diego
Why become a nurse in San Diego?
Cross-Border Nursing Opportunities in San Diego
2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in San Diego
2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in San Diego
2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in San Diego
What networking and career placement opportunities are available for nursing students in San Diego?
How can I decide between an RN and BSN program?
What are the career pathways available after earning a BSN in San Diego?
Flexible Learning Options for Aspiring Nurses in San Diego
Should I pursue an MSN to advance my career in San Diego?
What are the admission requirements for nursing programs in San Diego?
What are the benefits of ABSN online programs in San Diego?
Are 1 year FNP programs a viable option for advancing your nursing career?
Can online RN to BSN bridge programs accelerate your nursing career in San Diego?

The State of Nursing in San Diego

In the context of San Diego’s healthcare landscape, it is crucial to understand both the demand for healthcare professionals and the quality of education nursing schools in San Diego offer.

Hoffman (2023) highlighted the pressing demand for additional healthcare professionals in San Diego’s hospitals, specifically emphasizing the need for experienced nurses. Doug Levine, who serves as the Director of Talent Acquisition at UC San Diego Health, stated that the healthcare management industry has been grappling with staffing shortages, irrespective of the impact of COVID-19. But the pandemic has further intensified this issue.

Shifting our focus to the educational aspect, data from the California Board of Registered Nursing for 2022 provides insight into the performance of nursing schools in San Diego. This information reveals that three prominent institutions in the city achieved impressive NCLEX pass rates ranging from 90.67% to 98.41% (CBRN, 2023). These high pass rates testify to the strong educational foundation and rigorous training these institutions provide.

Why become a nurse in San Diego?

The reported average annual salary of $111,292 for RNs in San Diego is significant information for those considering a nursing career in the area. This figure is derived from a substantial sample size of 1,700 reported salaries, making it a reliable representation of the earning potential for RNs in the region.

This statistic is particularly noteworthy because it surpasses the national average by a substantial margin, coming in at 20% higher. This higher average salary indicates the relatively robust demand for healthcare professionals in the San Diego area, which is driven by factors such as the city’s population size, aging demographic, and the diverse healthcare needs of its residents.

If you are interested in pursuing cheap MSN programs down the road, it is important to note that the earning potential for RNs in San Diego can vary based on experience. With more years of experience in the field, an RN’s salary can reach as high as $131,463.

This underscores the significance of ongoing professional development facilitated by accredited online RN to BSN programs and similar routes. It also highlights their potential to result in significant income expansion throughout one’s nursing career in San Diego.

What Financial Aid Options Are Available for Nursing Students in San Diego?

Pursuing a nursing degree can be financially challenging, but numerous financial aid options are available to help students in San Diego manage tuition costs. Here are some of the most common forms of financial assistance:

Federal Financial Aid: Students can apply for federal grants and loans through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Programs like the Pell Grant and Direct Subsidized Loans are popular options.
State Grants and Scholarships: California offers various state-funded programs, including the Cal Grant, which assists eligible students with tuition costs based on financial need and academic performance.
Institutional Scholarships: Many nursing schools in San Diego have their own scholarship programs for students. These may be merit-based or need-based and can significantly reduce educational expenses.
Work-Study Programs: Federal work-study opportunities allow students to work part-time while attending school, helping them earn money for tuition and living expenses.
Private Scholarships: Numerous organizations offer scholarships specifically for nursing students. Websites like Fastweb or College Board can help students find relevant opportunities.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: Graduates who commit to working in underserved areas or in certain high-demand nursing roles may qualify for loan forgiveness programs, helping alleviate the burden of student debt.

Cross-Border Nursing Opportunities in San Diego

San Diego’s unique location near the U.S.-Mexico border presents distinct opportunities and challenges for nursing professionals. Cross-border nursing is a growing area of interest, with healthcare providers increasingly requiring bilingual nurses and professionals trained in cultural competency. The ability to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients is a valuable skill, enhancing the quality of care for San Diego’s diverse population. This competency not only improves patient outcomes but also positions bilingual nurses among the highest paid nurses in the region, as their expertise is highly sought after.

Nurses in San Diego often work with patients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, requiring adaptability and an understanding of health disparities. Cross-border healthcare collaborations also create opportunities to address transnational health concerns like infectious diseases, chronic conditions, and access to care for underserved communities.

San Diego nursing programs are recognizing this need by incorporating cultural competence and bilingual training into their curricula. Additionally, nursing students may find opportunities for clinical placements in settings that serve cross-border populations, providing real-world experience in addressing unique health challenges.

2025 Top-Ranked Entry-Level Nursing Programs in San Diego

Here is a selection of top introductory nursing schools in San Diego:

National University BSN

In the BSN program at the National University, students will gain skills in meticulous patient observation and documentation for communication with physicians. They will also have the opportunity to operate and oversee cutting-edge medical equipment and participate in the execution of diagnostic tests, as well as the analysis of test results.

This program has received approval from the CBRN. Upon graduation, students are eligible to take the NCLEX examination, which is a prerequisite for obtaining a state license to practice as an RN.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Transcultural Nursing
Cost per Credit: $461
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Point Loma Nazarene University BSN

Obtaining a BSN from Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) enables students to meld their enthusiasm for healthcare with a desire for purposeful and spiritually significant work. PLNU’s School of Nursing holds a strong reputation within the San Diego community, making its graduates highly sought after.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing of Individuals; Nursing of Families; Nursing of Communities
Cost per Credit: $500
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: CCNE

San Diego City College ADN

San Diego City College‘s ADN program is designed to equip entry-level RNs with the skills to provide care along the entire health and illness spectrum and to function effectively within the nursing profession.

This curriculum places great importance on recognizing each student’s unique qualities and strives to create a positive and forward-thinking learning environment that promotes the growth of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The ultimate goal is to prepare graduate nurses to deliver care to diverse patient populations in various healthcare settings.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Generic Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: $161.29
Required Credits to Graduate: 62
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

San Diego State University BSN

The BSN program at San Diego State University (SDSU) educates and empowers undergraduate students in the pre-licensure stage to promote fair healthcare and well-being within the nursing field and among various communities.

The program fosters professional and personal development through research, enabling students to address evolving nursing roles and trends that influence healthcare and healthcare systems.

Program Length: Three years
Tracks/concentrations: Local and International Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: $500
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: CCNE

Southwestern College ADN

Upon finishing the ADN Program at Southwestern College, students will acquire the essential knowledge and skills required for the responsibilities and duties of an RN.

These nursing students will be able to showcase and advocate for elevated standards of nursing practice and deliver proficient and secure care in diverse healthcare settings. They will also demonstrate competence in effective communication with patients of varying backgrounds and ages.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Fundamentals of Nursing
Cost per Credit: $141.45
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: BRN

2025 List of Bridge Programs for Nursing in San Diego

For those who are interested in the best or cheapest RN to BSN program online or on campus, you will be glad to know that nursing schools in San Diego also provide programs for bridging and advancing one’s nursing education.

National University LVN to BSN

During the LVN to BSN program at National University, students will acquire the competencies necessary to consistently enhance the quality and safety of nursing care and enhance patient care in various environments.

After completing the program, they will be able to exercise nursing judgment in the management, prioritization, and delegation of patient care tasks. Furthermore, they will demonstrate a professional identity by applying established standards of practice within the ethical and legal framework of nursing.

Program Length: Two to three years
Tracks/concentrations: Pharmacology in Nursing; Medical-Surgical Nursing; Psychosocial Nursing
Estimated Cost per Credit: $461
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

Point Loma Nazarene University LVN to BSN

PLNU’s comprehensive LVN to BSN program delivers education that strikes a harmonious balance between emphasizing the human and spiritual dimensions of nursing. It also covers the essential physical and technical skills needed to effectively and compassionately care for patients.

Program Length: Two and a half years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing of Individuals; Nursing of Families; Nursing of Communities
Estimated Cost per Credit: $500
Required Credits to Graduate: 88 to 89
Accreditation: CCNE

San Diego State University RN to BSN

Before enrolling in the RN to BSN program at SDSU, students must initially fulfill all the prerequisites for graduating from an ADN or Diploma in Nursing program accredited by a regional body. The duration of the program may differ, but most RN to BSN students typically complete their BSN degree at SDSU in approximately fifteen months.

Program Length: 12 to 15 months
Tracks/concentrations: Health Assessment and Health Promotion for RN to BS
Cost per Credit: $371.43
Required Credits to Graduate: 35
Accreditation: CCNE

United States University RN to BSN

The RN to BSN program at United States University is tailored for RNs with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. It aims to further develop the leadership and management abilities that were initially introduced in their previous nursing education.

Additionally, the program seeks to elevate nursing practice to a baccalaureate level, combining the art and science of nursing. A foundational aspect of this program is its grounding in the Caring Science Theory, which serves as the basis for teaching the theoretical and evidence-based aspects of nursing practice.

Program Length: 12 months
Tracks/concentrations: Caring Science
Cost per Credit: $335
Required Credits to Graduate: 35
Accreditation: CCNE

California State University ADN or RN to BSN

By obtaining an ADN from a California Community College and subsequently pursuing a BSN degree at a California State University (CSU), students can elevate their professional expertise and broaden their prospects for career advancement.

Program Length: 12 to 15 months
Tracks/concentrations: Public Health Clinical Nursing
Cost per Credit: $277.5
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: CCNE

Nursing School

Nursing Program

Cost per Credit

National University

LVN to BSN

$461

Point Loma Nazarene University

LVN to BSN

$500

San Diego State University

RN to BSN

$371.43

United States University

RN to BSN

$335

California State University

ADN or RN to BSN

$277.5

2025 Best Advanced Nursing Programs in San Diego

Below are some of the top-ranking nursing schools in San Diego offering graduate and post-graduate programs.

National University Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

The post-graduate PMHNP Certificate program is geared towards equipping advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care to individuals, groups, and various populations throughout their entire lifespan.

This certificate program is specifically tailored for nurses holding an MSN, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD), aiming to serve as advanced practitioners in the role of a PMHNP.

Program Length: Four weeks
Tracks/concentrations: Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
Cost per Credit: $1,139
Required Credits to Graduate: 24
Accreditation: CCNE

San Diego State University MSN

This program readies its graduates as forward-thinking and imaginative nurse leaders, poised to seize opportunities across a range of healthcare environments and equipped to reshape the future of healthcare delivery.

Program Length: Two to three years
Tracks/concentrations: Leadership in Healthcare Systems
Cost per Credit: $398.67 (in-state); $794.67 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 36
Accreditation: CCNE

United States University MSN

The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is tailored for registered nurses seeking to deliver evidence-based care to culturally diverse groups while utilizing cutting-edge technology for their education and practice. Within this program, students will gain proficiency in applying the most effective strategies for promoting and overseeing the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner
Cost per Credit: $560
Required Credits to Graduate: 48
Accreditation: CCNE

University of San Diego DNP

The University of San Diego DNP program represents the highest level of practical nursing education, aiming to enhance health outcomes and bridge the gap between research and its application in real-world practice. The program’s objectives encompass making meaningful contributions to advancements in health and healthcare through advanced clinical practice and leadership roles.

Program Length: Three to four years
Tracks/concentrations: Practice Career
Cost per Credit: $1,690
Required Credits to Graduate: 48
Accreditation: CCNE

Nursing School

Nursing Program

Duration

National University

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Four weeks

San Diego State University

MSN - Leadership in Healthcare Systems

Two to three years

United States University

MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

Two years

University of San Diego

DNP

Three to four years

What networking and career placement opportunities are available for nursing students in San Diego?

San Diego's thriving healthcare sector offers nursing students numerous opportunities to build professional networks and secure employment after graduation. Leveraging these opportunities can significantly enhance career prospects in the competitive nursing field. Here’s how nursing students in San Diego can tap into these resources:

1. Clinical Rotations at Leading Facilities. Many nursing programs in San Diego, such as those at San Diego State University and National University, partner with top healthcare facilities like UC San Diego Health and Sharp HealthCare for clinical placements. These rotations not only provide hands-on experience but also create opportunities to connect with potential employers.

2. Career Fairs and Workshops. Institutions like Point Loma Nazarene University frequently organize nursing career fairs, where students can meet recruiters from local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Workshops on resume building and interview skills further prepare students for the job market.

3. Mentorship Programs. Several nursing schools in San Diego offer mentorship programs, pairing students with experienced nurses in specialties like pediatrics, critical care, or mental health. Mentors provide guidance, share industry insights, and help students navigate their career paths.

4. Alumni Networks. Nursing schools like Southwestern College maintain strong alumni networks that connect graduates with current students. These networks serve as valuable resources for job referrals and professional advice.

5. Professional Nursing Associations. Joining organizations like the California Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA) or the American Nurses Association of California (ANAC) can open doors to exclusive events, leadership opportunities, and access to a broader professional community.

For nursing students considering programs with flexible entry requirements, our guide to the easiest nursing schools to get into highlights institutions that prioritize accessibility and support career readiness.

How can I decide between an RN and BSN program?

When evaluating your academic and career objectives, understanding the differences between RN and BSN programs is essential. RN pathways typically emphasize expedited entry into clinical practice with a focus on fundamental nursing skills, while BSN programs offer a more in‐depth curriculum that integrates clinical expertise, leadership training, and research competencies. Prospective students should consider aspects such as program duration, curriculum structure, and long-term career progression in San Diego's competitive healthcare market. For data-driven insights on these differences, please review the detailed comparison provided in RN vs BSN.

What are the career pathways available after earning a BSN in San Diego?

Graduating with a BSN in San Diego opens access to diverse career trajectories that extend well beyond direct patient care. Nurses can explore leadership and management roles in healthcare facilities, transition into specialized clinical fields, or contribute to academic and research initiatives. For those aiming to expand their clinical responsibilities and take on advanced practitioner roles, targeted bridge programs such as RN BSN to NP provide a streamlined route to becoming a nurse practitioner. Strategic professional development, including specialized certifications and continuous education, further enhances eligibility for roles in clinical leadership, policy development, and healthcare innovation, positioning graduates effectively in San Diego’s competitive healthcare landscape.

Flexible Learning Options for Aspiring Nurses in San Diego

While traditional nursing programs dominate the academic landscape in San Diego, flexible online alternatives are increasingly garnering attention. These options provide accessibility for working professionals and individuals with other commitments who wish to advance their nursing education without compromising their personal or professional obligations.

One notable option is pursuing online RN to BSN programs without clinicals, which eliminates the need for additional in-person clinical hours—an appealing feature for registered nurses who have already accrued substantial clinical experience in their careers. Programs of this nature streamline the educational process and focus on enhancing theoretical knowledge and leadership skills necessary for higher-level roles.

Moreover, these formats often include asynchronous coursework, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Courses typically cover advanced topics such as evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and community health, enabling graduates to contribute to a broader spectrum of care environments. As these programs are designed for licensed RNs, they facilitate a seamless transition to a BSN degree, which is increasingly becoming a requirement for employment at top healthcare facilities in San Diego.

This shift toward flexible learning reflects broader trends in the national nursing education landscape, wherein institutions are expanding their offerings to meet evolving student and workforce needs. Aspiring nurses in San Diego can benefit from these advancements, gaining access to high-quality education tailored to their unique circumstances.

Choosing the Best Nursing Schools in San Diego

The reported average annual salary for RNs in San Diego reflects the city’s robust healthcare industry. It underscores the potential for nurses to earn competitive salaries, especially as they gain more professional experience. This information can be valuable for aspiring nurses and those considering relocating to San Diego for their nursing careers.

When searching for nursing schools in San Diego or LPN to BSN programs online, it is advisable to prioritize those that hold accreditation from either CCNE or ACEN and have received approval from the CBRN.

Should I pursue an MSN to advance my career in San Diego?

Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can open avenues to enhanced clinical roles, leadership positions, and specialized practice areas in San Diego’s dynamic healthcare market. MSN programs offer advanced training in areas such as health policy, evidence-based practice, and advanced patient care management, aligning with the evolving needs of local employers. For nurses aiming to accelerate their career trajectory without compromising on quality or cost efficiency, it is worthwhile to examine options like the most affordable masters in nursing education programs. This targeted approach ensures that professional growth is both comprehensive and competitively positioned within the San Diego healthcare landscape.

What are the admission requirements for nursing programs in San Diego?

Admission criteria for nursing programs in San Diego vary by institution but generally require completion of prerequisite coursework in sciences and mathematics, such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Applicants typically must submit academic transcripts demonstrating a competitive GPA and may need to provide standardized test scores or successful completion of entrance exams. In addition, schools often require a background check, up-to-date immunizations, and proof of clinical or volunteer healthcare experience. Prospective students interested in advancing to roles such as nurse practitioners should review any additional certifications or experience requirements, which are sometimes met through programs like FNP online programs. A detailed review of each program’s criteria can help tailor one’s preparation and application strategy to meet specific standards.

What are the benefits of ABSN online programs in San Diego?

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs offer a streamlined pathway for individuals holding non-nursing bachelor's degrees to transition rapidly into a professional nursing career. These programs feature an intensive curriculum that combines rigorous academic coursework with comprehensive clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for San Diego’s competitive healthcare sector. Moreover, the accelerated pace allows candidates to enter the workforce sooner while still gaining in-depth exposure to modern clinical practices and advanced healthcare technologies. For professionals seeking flexibility alongside quality education, ABSN online programs provide tailored options that align with both career aspirations and demanding schedules.

Are 1 year FNP programs a viable option for advancing your nursing career?

Short-duration FNP certificate programs offer an accelerated pathway to advanced practice, equipping registered nurses with focused, evidence-based coursework and clinical skills essential for family nurse practitioner roles. These intensive programs are designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling graduates to quickly transition into high-demand positions in San Diego’s competitive healthcare market. Candidates considering this streamlined route can evaluate options such as 1 year FNP programs, which emphasize rapid certification and hands-on training while addressing the evolving needs of the community.

Can online RN to BSN bridge programs accelerate your nursing career in San Diego?

Online RN to BSN bridge programs offer a streamlined, flexible pathway designed to meet the rigorous demands of working nurses while ensuring a high-quality academic experience. These programs combine innovative curricula with flexible scheduling options that allow professionals to balance work commitments with study requirements. Their design is rooted in accountability to regional accreditation standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet evolving clinical and leadership challenges in San Diego’s competitive healthcare environment. For a closer examination of accessible options, explore online RN to BSN bridge programs that are easy to get into to identify programs that align with your career advancement goals.

Key Insights

High Demand for Nurses: San Diego's healthcare system faces a significant demand for experienced nurses, exacerbated by the pandemic. This has led to a pressing need for additional healthcare professionals in the city's hospitals.
Strong Educational Performance: San Diego's nursing schools boast impressive NCLEX pass rates, ranging from 90.67% to 98.41%, indicating a high standard of education and rigorous training programs.
Competitive Salaries: The average annual salary for RNs in San Diego is $111,292, which is 20% higher than the national average. This higher earning potential makes the city an attractive destination for nursing professionals.
Variety of Programs: San Diego offers a wide range of nursing programs, including LPN/LVN to RN, LPN/LVN to BSN, ADN, and RN to BSN programs, catering to different career paths and educational backgrounds.
Accredited Programs: Many nursing programs in San Diego are accredited by reputable bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring high-quality education and training.

FAQ

What is the average salary for RNs in San Diego?

The average annual salary for registered nurses in San Diego is $111,292, which is significantly higher than the national average. This figure can increase with experience, potentially reaching as high as $131,463.

How do nursing schools in San Diego perform on the NCLEX exam?

Nursing schools in San Diego have impressive NCLEX pass rates, with some institutions achieving rates between 90.67% and 98.41%. These high pass rates reflect the quality of nursing education and training provided by these schools.

What entry-level nursing programs are available in San Diego?

San Diego offers various entry-level nursing programs, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs at San Diego City College and Southwestern College, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs at National University, Point Loma Nazarene University, and San Diego State University.

Are there bridge programs available for advancing nursing education in San Diego?

Yes, there are several bridge programs available in San Diego. These include LVN to BSN programs at National University and Point Loma Nazarene University, as well as RN to BSN programs at San Diego State University and United States University.

What advanced nursing programs are offered in San Diego?

Advanced nursing programs in San Diego include the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at San Diego State University and United States University, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at the University of San Diego, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate at National University.

Why should I consider becoming a nurse in San Diego?

San Diego offers competitive salaries, a high demand for nursing professionals, and a variety of accredited nursing programs. Additionally, the city's strong healthcare infrastructure and quality educational institutions make it an attractive place for nurses to advance their careers.

What accreditation should I look for in nursing programs in San Diego?

When choosing a nursing program in San Diego, look for accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Programs approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (CBRN) are also highly regarded.

How long does it take to complete a nursing program in San Diego?

The duration of nursing programs in San Diego varies. ADN programs typically take two years, BSN programs take three to four years, and bridge programs like LVN to BSN and RN to BSN can take 12 to 24 months. Advanced degrees such as MSN and DNP programs can take two to four years.

What support services are available for nursing students in San Diego?

Many nursing schools in San Diego offer support services such as tutoring, academic advising, and financial aid. These services help students succeed in their studies and prepare for the NCLEX exam.

Are there opportunities for career advancement in nursing in San Diego?

Yes, there are ample opportunities for career advancement in nursing in San Diego. Nurses can pursue advanced degrees and certifications to take on leadership roles, specialize in areas like mental health or family practice, and benefit from ongoing professional development.

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