If you are interested in becoming a nurse in Modesto, California, you’re in luck. The city of more than 200,000 residents offers some of the highest nursing salaries in the United States. Modesto’s 3,670 registered nurses (RNs) earn an average annual salary of $104,180 per year. The city’s 600 licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) average $54,770 per year, while its 740 nursing assistants (CNAs) average $25,120 per year.

While opportunities are plentiful in the city, it still takes education, experience, and a license to obtain a position at a top Modesto hospital or healthcare provider. The city’s major employers include Memorial Medical Center, Stanislaus Surgical Hospital, and Kaiser Permanente Modesto Medical Center. To become an RN, you will need an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), or a master of science in nursing (MSN). A license is required as well, and many employers prefer a BSN or MSN degree. LVNs must complete an accredited, state-approved certificate or associate’s degree program and obtain a license, while CNAs must complete an accredited training program and obtain state certification.

These programs will fully prepare you to meet the everyday demands of being a nurse. For example, on a typical day, an RN will perform diagnostic tests, administer medication, establish care plans, and provide emotional care to families. LVNs do everything from measuring and recording vital signs to teaching family members how to care for patients. CNAs check vital signs and help patients with cleaning, bathing, and eating; in some cases, they administer medication.

To find the right program for you, take a look at our list below of accredited nursing schools in Modesto. These schools offer top-tier nursing programs in all areas of this rewarding field.

Modesto nursing schools by NCLEX score

California State University, Stanislaus
One University Circle | Turlock, California 95382
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing: 97.3% NCLEX pass rate (2011-12 through 2020-21)
  • Accelerated Second Degree BSN
  • LVN-to-BSN Bridge Program
  • LVN-to-RN 30-Unit Option
  • Master of Science in Nursing
  • RN-to-BSN Degree Completion
  • RN-to-MSN Degree Completion
Modesto Junior College
435 College Avenue | Modesto, California 95350
  • Associate Degree in Nursing: 91.3% NCLEX pass rate (2011-12 through 2020-21)
  • LVN-to-RN 30-Unit Option
Gurnick Academy - Modesto
4712 Stoddard Road, Suite 200 | Modesto, California 95356
  • Certificate in Vocational Nursing: 79.3% NCLEX pass rate (2012 through 2021)
Institute of Technology - Modesto
5601 Stoddard Road | Modesto, California 95356
  • Certificate in Vocational Nursing: 76.8% NCLEX pass rate (2016 through 2021)
Advanced College - Salida
5258 Pirrone Court | Salida, California 95368
  • Certificate in Vocational Nursing: 43.2% NCLEX pass rate (2020 through 2021)
School Program NCLEX score Time period
California State University, Stanislaus Bachelor of Science in Nursing 97.3% 2011-12 to 2020-21
Accelerated Second Degree BSN
LVN-to-BSN Bridge Program
LVN-to-RN 30-Unit Option
Master of Science in Nursing
RN-to-BSN Degree Completion
RN-to-MSN Degree Completion
Modesto Junior College Associate Degree in Nursing 91.3% 2011-12 to 2020-21
LVN-to-RN 30-Unit Option
Gurnick Academy - Modesto Certificate in Vocational Nursing 79.3% 2012 to 2021
Institute of Technology - Modesto Certificate in Vocational Nursing 76.8% 2016 to 2021
Advanced College - Salida Certificate in Vocational Nursing 43.2% 2020 to 2021
Category: 
California