Step 1: Authorization for Out-of-State Students

State and federal laws require that colleges and universities obtain authorization to offer online degree programs in any state where their students reside. If you are an applicant from outside California, please click here to confirm we have authorization in your state.

International Students: We do not require a separate application or fee, and you should be prepared to meet all of the prerequisite and application requirements as outlined. If you need assistance with immigration (I-20 form, F-1 visa, SEVIS, etc.), our International Student Services (ISS) staff are available to help you. Visit the ISS website to learn more.

Step 2: Application Requirements

Whether you are applying to the Health Systems Leadership-Administrative Nurse Leader, Health Systems Leadership-Clinical Nurse Leader or Family Nurse Practitioner track, the next step in the admissions process is to ensure you are able to complete the requirements in time to apply for your preferred term of entry.

  • A Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from a nationally accredited program. Bachelor’s degrees in related fields will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 for Overall and last 60 semester or 90 quarter units
  • Completion of a Statistics course (min 3 semester units) with a grade of “C” or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
  • Registered Nurse (RN) active and unencumbered licensure in the state where your preceptored clinical hours will be completed
  • One-year (1800 hours) of experience as a Registered Nurse (RN) preferred
    • Students without one-year experience will be expected to work while completing the program, and must be employed as an RN before being accepted into the program and must continue working as an RN while completing graduate coursework.
  • Access to a computer meeting minimum technical standards
  • International applicants or any other applicants who are not U.S. citizens and who are living in the U.S. should be prepared to provide proof of legal U.S. residency at the time of interview.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – If Required
  • The TOEFL is required for all applicants submitting coursework from foreign schools
  • TOEFL scores are valid for two years
  • Internet-Based test (IBT) minimum score: 80
  • Computer Based test minimum score: 213
  • Exceptions:
    • The TOEFL exam will be waived for permanent and temporary residents of the United States who have completed six semester units of the communication requirement from a regionally accredited U.S. institution
    • You have a confirmed bachelor’s degree at the time of application from a regionally accredited U.S. institution
Proof of Legal U.S. Residency – If Required
  • International applicants, or any other applicants who are not U.S. citizens and who are living in the U.S., must provide proof of legal U.S. residency prior to matriculation.
Step 3: Preparing and Submitting your Application

The apply now page will provide you with step-by-step instructions as well as an application checklist. There are a number of supporting materials that make up your completed application and it is essential that you print and carefully follow the checklist to ensure that you properly submit these pieces by the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate through the application process, and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have additional questions.