Registered Nursing Program

Accreditation Information

Effective June 29, 2022, the Bakersfield College Registered Nursing Program located in Bakersfield, California is a candidate for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This candidacy status expires on June 2024.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

View the public information disclosed by ACEN regarding this candidate program.

The California Board of Registered Nursing accredits the BC Registered Nursing Program.  Bakersfield College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The ACCJC is one of the six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Currently in process of securing National Certification through Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Options

Important Information

Military Veterans

Military Challenge Advanced Placement Policy - Individuals with military health education and experience who have held Military Health Care Occupations may be eligible to obtain credit for Registered Nursing Program (RNP) courses.

Priority Placement for Veterans

Students will be admitted to the program based on their scholastic eligibility and placement on a nursing assessment test as per SB 1309.

If the program is receiving Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funding, in accordance with the Jobs for Veterans Act (JVA), priority will be given to applicants with proof of military, naval, or air service and discharge under conditions other than dishonorable; students must work with Admissions & Records to determine eligibility.

An eligible spouse/widow(er) or dependent will also be extended this priority status. This eligibility is determined by proof of valid Certificate of Eligibility (C.O.E.) along with the eligible DD-214 support.

Basic Life Support Certification

Prior to the beginning of the nursing program, and then throughout the program, students are required to show proof of a valid American Heart Association BLS card. This BLS card must be valid until the end of the 2-year RNP. It is your responsibility to provide a copy of the current BLS card to the nursing department and to carry a copy of this card while attending clinical in the healthcare facilities, preferably in your portfolio.

Students Transferring to CSUB

Students who plan to obtain their Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at Cal State University Bakersfield after completing the Bakersfield College RNP should consult the CSUB Nursing for current requirements.

Technology Resources

What is Registered Nursing?

Registered Nursing (RN) is a healthcare profession that involves providing patient care and support in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health care. RNs work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans, administer medications and treatments, monitor and assess patient progress, and educate patients and their families about health-related issues. RNs may also specialize in a particular area of nursing practice, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or oncology, among others. To become an RN, individuals must complete an accredited nursing education program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

Is Studying to be a Registered Nurse Right for Me?

A Registered Nursing Program can benefit individuals who have a strong desire to help others and are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. This program is ideal for those who are looking for a shorter and more affordable educational pathway to become a registered nurse, as associate degree programs generally take two years to complete. It is also a good fit for individuals who may not have the flexibility to commit to a full-time, four-year bachelor's degree program. Additionally, this program may be a good option for those who are looking to enter the nursing profession quickly and start gaining valuable work experience. Overall, the Registered Nursing Program can benefit individuals who are passionate about helping others, have a strong work ethic, and are looking for a rewarding career in healthcare.

There are several key traits and skills that can make someone a good fit for studying Registered Nursing. Here are a few:

• Empathy and compassion
• Strong communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Critical thinking skills
• Adaptability
• Physical stamina
• Problem-solving skills
• Emotional resilience

Overall, individuals who possess these traits and skills are likely to be successful in a Registered Nursing program and in the nursing profession.

Registered Nursing Programs

Registered Nursing Associate in Science

The study of nursing is the application of knowledge from the arts and sciences. The purpose of the Bakersfield College Associate Degree Program is to provide the foundation for students to become competent registered nurses. 

Registered Nursing Careers

There are several career paths that someone can pursue with a Registered Nursing associate degree. Here are a few examples:

1. Registered Nurse (RN): As an RN, individuals can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. RNs are responsible for providing patient care, administering medications and treatments, monitoring patient progress, and educating patients and their families about health-related issues.
2. Home Health Nurse: Home Health Nurses provide care to patients in their homes. This can include administering medications, providing wound care, and assisting with activities of daily living. Home Health Nurses work closely with patients and their families to develop care plans and ensure that patients are receiving the support they need.
3. Hospice Nurse: Hospice Nurses provide care to patients who are in the end stages of life. This can include managing pain and symptoms, providing emotional support, and helping patients and their families navigate the end-of-life process.
4. Public Health Nurse: Public Health Nurses work in community settings to promote health and prevent disease. This can include providing education and resources to individuals and families, conducting health screenings, and responding to public health crises.
5. School Nurse: School Nurses work in educational settings to provide healthcare services to students. This can include administering medications, providing first aid, and managing chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes.

Overall, there are many career opportunities available to individuals with a Registered Nursing associate degree. These careers offer the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and provide a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Beyond BC

Transfer to a University

Graduates with an Associate Degree from Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, options, and opportunities.

Transfer Pathways

Department and Pathway

Academic Department: Nursing

Career & Learning Pathway: Health Sciences (HS) Pathway

Courses

See the entire list of Registered Nursing (NURS) courses available at BC in the catalog.