California State University Long Beach Nursing Program Review (2026): Programs, Requirements & Outcomes
California State University Long Beach in Long Beach: BSN, RN-to-BSN, and DNP. First-time NCLEX-RN was ~100% (5-yr). 2026 admissions, nursing programs.
Contents
Quick Facts
Key Takeaway
CSULB’s School of Nursing has been ranked No. 1 in California and among the top programs nationally. With strong NCLEX-RN outcomes (for latest pass rates consult the California BRN report), a rigorous selection process (Casper + Communication Exercise), and a BSN-DNP pathway, it appeals to students who want a high-outcome, competitive program in the greater Los Angeles healthcare market.
Overview & Why Students Choose CSULB
Located in Long Beach, part of the greater Los Angeles metro and one of the nation’s largest healthcare markets, California State University Long Beach gives nursing students access to diverse clinical settings, major medical centers, and strong employment demand for RNs and advanced practice nurses.
Whether you are a pre-licensure student aiming for a BSN, an ADN/RN seeking an online RN-to-BSN, or a bachelor’s-prepared nurse pursuing a BSN-DNP, CSULB’s School of Nursing offers CCNE-accredited pathways with strong NCLEX-RN outcomes; for the latest pass rates consult the California BRN report.
For the latest NCLEX pass rates and cohort-specific data, consult the official California Board of Registered Nursing report.
Five reasons students choose CSULB
📈 NCLEX & Rankings
Strong first-time NCLEX-RN outcomes; for latest rates see California BRN report. School of Nursing ranked No. 1 in California and among the top nationally.
🏥 Greater LA Clinical Access
Long Beach and Los Angeles offer a vast healthcare ecosystem for clinical hours and post-graduation employment.
🎓 BSN, RN-to-BSN & BSN-DNP
Traditional BSN (5 semesters), online RN-to-BSN, Step-Up Bridge for ADN students, and a three-year BSN-DNP pathway.
💵 Public Value
CSU tuition and fees make CSULB one of the more affordable four-year nursing options in Southern California.
📋 Rigorous Selection
Casper situational judgment test and Communication Exercise help select candidates aligned with program values.
Nursing Programs Offered
CSULB’s School of Nursing offers pre-licensure BSN, RN-to-BSN, and BSN-to-DNP pathways. All programs are CCNE-accredited.
Traditional BSN (Pre-Licensure)
Designed for students with no prior nursing experience. After completing prerequisites, students complete 5 semesters of full-time nursing coursework (Fall and Spring, or year-round). Leads to NCLEX-RN eligibility.
RN to BSN
For licensed RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing. Fully online; competitive option for working nurses in California. Application periods: Fall (Aug 1–Sep 30), Spring (Oct 1–Apr 1).
Step-Up Bridge Program
Pathway for ADN students to progress toward the BSN. Details and eligibility are available from the School of Nursing.
BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Three-year BSN-DNP program. Application opens August 1 and closes January 15 for fall start. Prepares graduates for the highest level of clinical practice.
Prerequisite and curriculum details are in the University Catalog. The School of Nursing does not offer transcript review or advising for prospective students; contact them for program and application questions only.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate
CSULB’s School of Nursing reports strong program outcomes; the school has reported strong first-time NCLEX-RN performance. For the latest pass rates and cohort-specific data, consult the California Board of Registered Nursing report. Nurse practitioner certification pass rates are also reported as outstanding.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN First-Time Pass Rate | For the latest pass rates consult the California BRN report. |
| Job Placement / Alumni Employers | Not publicly disclosed |
| Source | CSULB School of Nursing; California BRN |
This is a high-level snapshot from the school’s published messaging. An official state average from the same California Board of Registered Nursing report was not used in this guide. For the most current NCLEX statistics and comparisons, confirm with the California Board of Registered Nursing and the CSULB School of Nursing.
International Students & Internationally Educated Nurses
CSULB admits international students, and California licenses internationally educated nurses; the exact steps, documents, and test scores vary by country, visa type, and whether you are seeking a student visa or RN licensure. Use the points below as a checklist to guide your conversations with CSULB and the California Board of Registered Nursing—never as a replacement for their official instructions.
- English-language proficiency: Whether CSULB requires TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or another exam, and the minimum scores for undergraduate vs. graduate nursing programs.
- Transcript / credential evaluation: Whether foreign secondary or nursing education must be evaluated by WES, CGFNS, or another service and how CSULB wants those reports submitted.
- California Board of Registered Nursing: For internationally educated nurses pursuing RN licensure, confirm NCLEX eligibility, any CGFNS or credential evaluation requirements, and document translation with the Board.
- Immigration & visa: Which programs are approved for F-1 or other visa types, required financial documentation, and how clinical placements align with your immigration status.
Policies for international students and foreign‑educated nurses change frequently. Before you rely on any single blog, video, or forum post, cross‑check everything with CSULB’s International Admissions and the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Admissions: A Realistic Look
CSULB’s BSN program is highly competitive. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Applicants must apply via Cal State Apply (degree objective: Nursing BS), the CSULB supplemental application (for transfers), and the School of Nursing BSN application. Casper (situational judgment test) is required; selected applicants are invited to a mandatory Communication Exercise.
- Minimum cumulative GPA 3.25; prerequisite GPA 3.0 or better (B or higher in all prerequisite courses)
- Four natural science prerequisites: Microbiology, Chemistry, Human Physiology, Human Anatomy (with labs)
- Four general education prerequisites: Critical Thinking, Written Communication, Oral Communication, Statistics
- Casper (Acuity Insights) by program deadline; Communication Exercise for top-ranked applicants
- Prerequisites must be completed before the application period (no in-progress prerequisites after deadline)
Application timeline (BSN)
| Entry Term | Cal State Apply | SON BSN App | Notification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Oct 1 – Dec 1 | Oct 1 – Feb 1 | Late April |
| Spring | Aug 1 – Aug 31 | Aug 1 – Sep 21 | Late November |
Admissions competitiveness snapshot
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate (BSN) | ~13% (77 admitted from 594 applicants, Fall 2024) |
| Minimum Cumulative GPA | 3.25 |
| Prerequisite GPA | 3.0+ (B or better) |
| Casper Required | Yes (by SON application deadline) |
| Communication Exercise | Yes (mandatory for ~120 invited applicants) |
Applications are scored and ranked; only the highest-ranked are invited to the Communication Exercise. Complete Casper on an approved date well before the deadline. Ensure your Cal State Apply degree objective is “Nursing BS” (not “Nursing BS – RN”) for the pre-licensure BSN.
Advice by applicant type
🎓 High school / first-time applicant
Complete prerequisites with a 3.0+ GPA in those courses and 3.25 cumulative. Take Casper on a date that allows results to reach CSULB by the SON deadline. Prepare for the Communication Exercise if invited.
🔄 Second bachelor’s / transfer
Same BSN requirements apply. Submit Cal State Apply, CSULB supplemental (if transfer), and SON BSN application. Second bachelor’s applicants should confirm eligibility with CSULB Admissions.
🩺 RN seeking BSN or DNP
Use the RN-to-BSN or BSN-DNP application paths, not the pre-licensure BSN. RN-to-BSN deadlines: Fall (Aug 1–Sep 30), Spring (Oct 1–Apr 1). DNP: Aug 1–Jan 15 for fall start.
Tuition & Cost of Attendance
CSULB is part of the California State University system. Below are key cost figures for 2025–2026 (full-time undergraduate).
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| CA Resident Tuition & Mandatory Fees (Full-Time, 7+ units/semester) | $4,171/semester (~$8,342/year) |
| Non-Resident Tuition | See CSULB Tuition & Fees page |
| Graduate/Post-Bac (Full-Time) | ~$4,978/semester |
| Housing, Books, Transportation | Not publicly disclosed here; see Cost of Attendance |
| Source | CSULB Tuition and Fees |
Fees are subject to change. For a current breakdown including housing, books, and transportation, use the official CSULB Cost of Attendance and Tuition and Fees pages.
Complete the FAFSA. CSULB offers need-based and merit aid. The NURSE Corps Scholarship Program may be available to qualifying nursing students. See CSULB Financial Aid.
Student Outcomes & Career Prospects
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN First-Time Pass Rate | For the latest pass rates consult the California BRN report. |
| NP Certification Pass Rates | Reported as outstanding by school |
| Job Placement / Alumni Employers | Not available in the provided inputs/sources |
For employer and placement details, see the CSULB School of Nursing and career services.
Is CSULB the Right Fit for You?
Choosing a nursing school depends on your budget, location, and career goals. Here’s an honest look at who tends to thrive at CSULB and who might look elsewhere.
✅ Good fit for students who…
- Want a top-ranked, CCNE-accredited public program in Southern California
- Can meet a 3.25+ GPA and are prepared for Casper and the Communication Exercise
- Prefer greater LA/Long Beach for clinicals and job market
- Are RNs seeking an online RN-to-BSN or a BSN-DNP pathway
- Value strong NCLEX and certification outcomes
⚠️ May not be ideal for students who…
- Need a less competitive admission process or lower GPA thresholds
- Prefer a standalone MSN (CSULB offers BSN-DNP, not a separate MSN)
- Want a fully online pre-licensure BSN
- Are outside California and prefer in-state tuition elsewhere
Local Healthcare Ecosystem
Long Beach and the greater Los Angeles region form one of the largest healthcare markets in the United States. Students have access to major health systems, county and safety-net hospitals, and specialty centers, with strong demand for RNs and advanced practice nurses across the region.
Clinical placement sites and employer names are not fully listed in the sources reviewed for this guide. The Greater LA area offers diverse settings for clinical hours and employment. Confirm current placement partners with the CSULB School of Nursing.
Student Experience & Campus Life
CSULB’s School of Nursing is part of the College of Health and Human Services. The campus is in Long Beach with access to the greater Los Angeles area for clinical rotations and employment. The school highlights White Coat and Willow ceremonies and community impact initiatives.
Student organizations and support resources are available through the university. For simulation labs, student clubs, and current student life details, see the School of Nursing and Student Life pages.
Resources & Next Steps
Contact & location
- Campus location
- Long Beach, CA
- Address
- 1250 Bellflower Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90840, US
- Telephone
- (562) 985-4111
- Contact email
- nursing@csulb.edu
- Website
- www.csulb.edu
Official links
Your “Next 7 Days” checklist
- Visit the official CSULB School of Nursing and download the BSN Information Sheet and any program brochures.
- Review the prerequisite list in the BSN Program page and the University Catalog; compare to your transcripts.
- Register for Casper (takecasper.com / Acuity Insights) and choose a test date so results reach CSULB by the SON application deadline (Feb 1 fall / Sep 21 spring).
- Draft questions for the School of Nursing (nursing@csulb.edu). Note: they do not offer transcript review or advising for prospective students.
- Reach out to current CSULB nursing students or alumni on LinkedIn to ask about clinical experiences and satisfaction.
- Prepare for the Communication Exercise (written and oral) if you are a top-ranked BSN applicant.
- Check Cal State Apply and SON BSN deadlines for your target term and set reminders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is California State University Long Beach a good school for nursing?
CSULB’s School of Nursing reports strong NCLEX-RN outcomes and has been ranked No. 1 in California and among the top nationally. The program is highly selective and offers BSN, RN-to-BSN, and BSN-DNP pathways.
What GPA do you need for CSULB’s nursing program?
BSN applicants need a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 and a prerequisite GPA of 3.0 or better (B or higher in all prerequisite courses).
Does CSULB require the TEAS exam for nursing?
No. CSULB’s BSN program requires the Casper situational judgment test (Acuity Insights), not the TEAS. Casper must be completed by the School of Nursing application deadline.
How competitive is admission to CSULB’s nursing program?
Admission is highly competitive. For Fall 2024, 77 students were admitted from 594 BSN applicants. Selection is based on prerequisite GPAs, Casper scores, and a mandatory Communication Exercise for top-ranked applicants.
Does CSULB offer an accelerated BSN?
CSULB offers a traditional BSN (5 semesters of nursing after prerequisites), an online RN-to-BSN, and a BSN-DNP program. A Step-Up Bridge exists for ADN students. A standalone accelerated BSN (ABSN) is not listed.
What are the clinical placement sites for CSULB nursing students?
Clinical placement sites are not fully listed in the provided sources. Long Beach and greater Los Angeles offer many hospitals and health systems. Confirm current sites with the CSULB School of Nursing.
What is the NCLEX pass rate for CSULB?
For the latest NCLEX pass rates and cohort-specific data, consult the California Board of Registered Nursing report.
References
- CSULB School of Nursing — programs and outcomescsulb.edu/college-of-health-human-services/school-of-nursing
- CSULB BSN Program — admissions and prerequisitescsulb.edu/…/bsn-program
- CSULB Tuition and Fees (2025–2026)csulb.edu/registration-and-records/tuition-and-fees
- CSULB Cost of Attendancecsulb.edu/financial-aid-and-scholarships/cost-of-attendance
- California Board of Registered Nursing — licensure and NCLEXrn.ca.gov
- All other data as provided in inputs. Data marked “Not publicly disclosed” is unavailable in the sources reviewed.
Editorial Standards & Review
About the author: Sid Balal, RGN, writes evidence-based nursing education guides for NurseOnShift.
Review: This page was reviewed by Araceli Collado, RN, for accuracy, clarity, and alignment with publicly available institutional and government data.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general reference and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional, admissions, or financial advice and does not guarantee admission, eligibility, or any particular outcome. Requirements, deadlines, tuition, and policies change; always verify with the institution and relevant boards before making decisions.
Published: Mar 15, 2026 · Last reviewed: Mar 15, 2026 · Medical Review Process · Editorial Policy