BSN Programs in California

Keywords: BSN Programs in California
Nursing programs are offered by numerous colleges and universities throughout the state of California. You can opt for BSN programs in California that meet the licensing needs of California as well as general nursing programs that are not specific to any state.

A basic Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN) takes around four years to complete and is a combination of nursing theory and clinical practice. It is often the first degree that many people looking to joining the nursing field enroll in. Some of the courses that will be taught are:

• Women’s and Family Health;
• Pathophysiology;
• Nursing Research and Statistics;
• Applied Pharmacology;
• Processes and clinical concepts  in Mental Health; and
• Older adult health.

The coursework provides rigorous training in professional nursing practices, leadership development and management skills. The program also prepares students for the National Council Licensing Examination.
Licensed registered nurses can also enroll in RN to BSN programs. These can be completed in twelve to fifteen months. These cater to the growing need of registered nurses looking to upgrade their career.
Licensed vocational nurses may also choose to enroll in a LVN to BSN program. Vocational nursing licensure is mandatory for admission to LVN to BSN programs in California. Prerequisites of this program also include courses in human anatomy, psychology, physiology and microbiology.
BSN programs are also offered online by accredited institutes for students in California, allowing professional nurses to pursue advanced education without having to give up their jobs. Financial aid is also available for most programs from both federal and private sources. These sources include the California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program, Cal Grant A, Cal Grant B, Cal Grant C and the State Nursing Assumption Program of Loans for Education.
The mean annual wages for nurses in California is currently $90,000. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in nursing related jobs is anticipated to grow by 26% from 2010 to 2020. This can be attributed to an aging population of baby boomers and technological advances that have made preventive care and medication available to the masses.