Intro
Discover the top 5 nursing schools in Sacramento, offering high-quality education and training for aspiring nurses. Learn about the best programs, degree options, and accreditation standards. Find the perfect fit for your nursing career with our comprehensive guide to Sacramentos top nursing schools, including ADN, BSN, and MSN programs.
The city of Sacramento, California, is a hub for healthcare and medical education, with numerous top-notch nursing schools that offer a range of programs for aspiring nurses. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right nursing school that meets your needs and career goals. In this article, we will explore the top 5 nursing schools in Sacramento, highlighting their programs, admission requirements, and what sets them apart from the rest.
Why Choose a Nursing School in Sacramento?

Sacramento offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living, with a growing demand for healthcare professionals. The city is home to several major hospitals and medical centers, including Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, and UC Davis Medical Center, providing students with ample opportunities for clinical experience and job placement after graduation.
Top 5 Nursing Schools in Sacramento
1. University of California, Davis School of Nursing
Programs Offered
The UC Davis School of Nursing offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Admission Requirements
* GPA: 3.0 or higher * Prerequisite courses: anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology * TEAS or HESI exam scores * Personal statement and letters of recommendation2. Sacramento State University School of Nursing
Programs Offered
The Sacramento State University School of Nursing offers:- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Certificate programs in nurse education and nurse leadership
Admission Requirements
* GPA: 3.0 or higher * Prerequisite courses: anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology * TEAS or HESI exam scores * Personal statement and letters of recommendation3. Western Governors University College of Health Professions
Programs Offered
The Western Governors University College of Health Professions offers:- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Admission Requirements
* GPA: 2.5 or higher * Prerequisite courses: anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology * TEAS or HESI exam scores * Personal statement and letters of recommendation4. Samuel Merritt University School of Nursing
Programs Offered
The Samuel Merritt University School of Nursing offers:- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Admission Requirements
* GPA: 3.0 or higher * Prerequisite courses: anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology * TEAS or HESI exam scores * Personal statement and letters of recommendation5. Sierra College Nursing Program
Programs Offered
The Sierra College Nursing Program offers:- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program
Admission Requirements
* GPA: 2.5 or higher * Prerequisite courses: anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology * TEAS or HESI exam scores * Personal statement and letters of recommendationWhat to Consider When Choosing a Nursing School

When selecting a nursing school, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Look for schools accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
- Program offerings: Choose a school that offers the program you're interested in, whether it's a BSN, MSN, or DNP.
- Clinical experience: Consider schools with strong clinical partnerships and opportunities for hands-on experience.
- Faculty expertise: Look for schools with experienced faculty who are experts in their field.
- NCLEX-RN pass rates: Check the school's NCLEX-RN pass rates to ensure students are well-prepared for the licensing exam.
Conclusion

Choosing the right nursing school in Sacramento can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as accreditation, program offerings, and clinical experience, you can make an informed decision that sets you up for success in your nursing career. Remember to research each school thoroughly and reach out to admissions counselors to get a better sense of which program is the best fit for you.
Call to Action
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences with nursing schools in Sacramento. Have you attended one of the schools listed above? Share your story in the comments below! If you're considering a nursing program, ask us any questions you may have, and we'll do our best to provide guidance and support.What is the average cost of tuition for nursing schools in Sacramento?
+The average cost of tuition for nursing schools in Sacramento varies depending on the school and program. However, here are some approximate tuition costs for the schools listed above:
- UC Davis School of Nursing: $14,000 - $20,000 per year
- Sacramento State University School of Nursing: $10,000 - $15,000 per year
- Western Governors University College of Health Professions: $6,000 - $10,000 per year
- Samuel Merritt University School of Nursing: $20,000 - $30,000 per year
- Sierra College Nursing Program: $5,000 - $10,000 per year
What is the average NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Sacramento?
+The average NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Sacramento varies depending on the school and program. However, here are some approximate NCLEX-RN pass rates for the schools listed above:
- UC Davis School of Nursing: 90% - 95%
- Sacramento State University School of Nursing: 85% - 90%
- Western Governors University College of Health Professions: 80% - 85%
- Samuel Merritt University School of Nursing: 90% - 95%
- Sierra College Nursing Program: 80% - 85%
How long does it take to complete a nursing program in Sacramento?
+The length of time it takes to complete a nursing program in Sacramento varies depending on the school and program. However, here are some approximate program lengths for the schools listed above:
- UC Davis School of Nursing: 2 - 4 years
- Sacramento State University School of Nursing: 2 - 4 years
- Western Governors University College of Health Professions: 2 - 3 years
- Samuel Merritt University School of Nursing: 2 - 4 years
- Sierra College Nursing Program: 2 - 3 years