Entry-Level Master’s (ELM) Nursing Programs in California
Feeling stuck with a degree that no longer lights you up? You’re not alone — and more importantly, you’re not out of options. California’s booming healthcare scene is calling, and Westcliff University’s Entry-Level Master’s (ELM) Nursing Program offers the fast track to a career that actually fuels your passion.
Created for go-getters from non-nursing backgrounds, an ELM program transforms your existing degree into a launchpad for a stable, rewarding future. From advanced clinical training to leadership development, this accelerated pathway equips you with everything you need — including eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam. Don’t have nursing experience? This program is designed with that in mind.
Whether you see yourself mastering patient care, stepping into one of California’s most in-demand roles, or simply exploring new career possibilities, Westcliff prepares you to not just join the field but make waves in it.
And there’s no better place to dive in than California. With demand for skilled nurses soaring, care centers across the state are eager for qualified professionals ready to lead. Graduates of accredited ELM programs don’t just fill gaps, they unlock doors. From bedside care to specialized practice to leadership opportunities, earning your ELM degree here means you’re stepping into a job market that’s ready and waiting.
Connect with a program advisor and take the first step toward a bold new future.
Westcliff University Entry-Level Master’s (ELM) Nursing Program: Built for Bold Moves
If you’re looking for a program that combines flexibility, practical experience, and strong academic foundations, Westcliff University’s Entry-Level Master’s (ELM) in Nursing might just be your best next move.
This program is designed to get you career-ready in just 20 months, blending classroom learning with immersive, hands-on training from the start. Expect a tight-knit learning environment, experienced instructors who know the field inside and out, and clinical rotations that put your skills to work in real health care settings.
Quick Facts
- Program Length: 20 months (5 semesters)
- Location: Corona, California
- Format: In-person, with evening and weekend clinicals
- Credits: 65
Admission Checklist
Getting in starts with:
- A bachelor’s degree in any field
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Completion of key science and general education prerequisites (think chemistry, anatomy, statistics, and more)
- TEAS score of 65% or higher
- CPR certification and a background check
It all starts with who’s teaching you. Forget dry lectures. Westcliff’s faculty bring 15+ years of clinical experience right into the classroom. Plus, with simulation labs and early clinical placements, you’ll move from learning about nursing to doing it faster than you think.
Beyond the Classroom
Westcliff knows it takes more than textbooks to build a career:
- Career support starts day one with resume prep, job search strategies, and interview coaching.
- NCLEX preparation is woven directly into your courses via ATI Engage — no last-minute cramming here.
- Clinical partnerships with healthcare providers across Inland Empire, Orange, and LA County ensure you gain meaningful, varied experience.
- Need help getting in the door? TEAS prep resources are available to help you meet admissions requirements with confidence.
Tuition and Financial Support
- Tuition: $1,200 per credit (approx. $78,000 total)
- Financial Aid: Scholarships and payment plans available
Program Start & Accreditation
- First Cohort: Targeted for September 2025
- Accreditation: WSCUC accredited, California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) approved
Your Perfect Match: How to Choose the Right ELM Program
By now, you’ve seen that California is brimming with incredible ELM programs, but which one is right for you? This isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It’s about finding the program that fits your lifestyle, your ambitions, and yes, your budget.
Consider Your Career Goals
Are you dreaming of bedside care or aiming for leadership roles? Some programs, like Westcliff’s, infuse advanced leadership and population health into the curriculum. Others may emphasize research or public health. Think about your end game — and work backward.
Location, Location, Location
California is big. From Northern California’s tech-driven health hubs to SoCal’s expansive medical networks, where you study can shape where you start your career. Factor in commute times, housing, and — let’s be honest — weather.
Clinical Experience
Look for programs that get you into scrubs fast. Early and diverse clinical rotations (like those offered by Westcliff and others) are key to developing confidence and marketable skills.
Cost & Financial Support
Let’s talk numbers. Some programs offer lower tuition but fewer financial aid opportunities. Others, like Westcliff, offer scholarships and payment plans to make tuition more accessible.
Flexibility & Format
Will you be balancing work or family? Hybrid or evening options can make or break your experience. Westcliff offers in-person learning with flexible clinical scheduling — a huge plus for busy students.
Pro Tip
Connect with admissions. Attend info sessions. Chat with current students. The best way to know if a program fits? Hear from the people living it.
Choosing an ELM program isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about finding your fit and forging your future. Take your time, do the research, and trust your gut.
Turn “Someday” Into Day One: Connect with an Advisor
You’ve explored the options. You’ve compared the paths. Now comes the exciting part — making the leap.
Whether you’re ready to leave behind your current career or simply searching for something more meaningful, Entry-Level Master’s (ELM) Nursing Programs in California offer a fast track to a brighter, more purpose-driven future. From advanced clinical skills to leadership training, these programs are built for people who want to make a difference and want to start now.
And when it comes to making that leap, Westcliff University stands out. With expert faculty, built-in TEAS and NCLEX prep, meaningful clinical partnerships, and a supportive learning environment, Westcliff’s ELM program is more than a degree. It’s your launchpad into California’s dynamic, in-demand healthcare workforce.
Your career pivot starts here — and we’re ready when you are. Connect with a program advisor today!