List of accredited nursing schools in Ontario, California

California’s Inland Empire is home to an impressive 23,610 registered nurses (RNs). The area, which consists of cities such as Ontario, Riverside, and San Bernardino, is also home to 6,140 licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and 8,160 certified nursing assistants (CNAs). While opportunities for nurses are plentiful in Ontario, the field is still very competitive. To ensure that their nurses have the skills needed to provide exceptional patient care, Ontario-based hospitals and healthcare providers require a degree or certificate, clinical experience, and the appropriate state or national licensure.

RNs perform a variety of challenging duties from administering treatments and medications to educating patients and the public about medical conditions. These professionals typically hold an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), or master of science in nursing (MSN). All must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN national licensure exam. Employers are demonstrating an increasing preference for BSN- or MSN-educated RNs.

LVNs care for the sick, injured, convalescent, or disabled under the supervision of RNs, surgeons, and physicians. They must complete an accredited, state-approved certificate or associate’s degree program and successfully pass the NCLEX-PN national licensure exam. CNAs provide hands-on care and perform routine tasks under the supervision of nursing and medical staff. CNAs must complete an accredited training program and obtain state certification.

Graduates of these programs will have the skills needed to seek lucrative positions with top Ontario hospitals and medical centers, including Kindred Hospital and Kaiser Permanente Ontario Medical Center. Inland Empire-based RNs average $87,160 in earnings per year, LVNs earn $45,570 in annual salary, and CNAs bring home an average of $26,130 per year.

The following is a list of Ontario’s top universities, colleges, and vocational schools for nursing. These schools offer a variety of educational programs for all areas of this exciting field.