Nurse Practitioner Schools

nurse-groups-head-shots-07

Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Costa Mesa, California

Get your Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Costa Mesa, California - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Costa Mesa, California

Considering a career as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Costa Mesa, California offers a rewarding pathway to advanced practice in healthcare. Nurse Practitioners are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who provide high-quality healthcare services, often specializing in areas such as family care, pediatrics, women’s health, and more. To embark on this career, prospective NPs must complete rigorous educational and certification requirements.

About Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa, located in the heart of Orange County, California, is known for its vibrant arts scene and proximity to beautiful beaches. With notable landmarks such as the South Coast Plaza and Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa offers a dynamic environment for both work and leisure. For more information, visit the official Costa Mesa website.

Nurse Practitioner Programs in Costa Mesa, California

While Costa Mesa itself does not host a wide variety of Nurse Practitioner programs, several esteemed institutions are located nearby:

  1. University of California, Irvine (UCI)
    • Location: Irvine, CA (approximately 10 miles from Costa Mesa)
    • Program: UCI offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with NP specialties including Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP).
    • UCI Nursing Programs
  2. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
    • Location: Long Beach, CA (approximately 20 miles from Costa Mesa)
    • Program: CSULB provides a comprehensive MSN program with NP options such as Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP).
    • CSULB Nursing Programs
  3. Azusa Pacific University
    • Location: Azusa, CA (approximately 40 miles from Costa Mesa)
    • Program: Azusa Pacific University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with NP tracks including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
    • Azusa Pacific Nursing Programs

Nurse Practitioner Employment Opportunities in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa and its surrounding areas are home to numerous healthcare facilities offering employment opportunities for NPs:

  1. Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian
    • Location: Newport Beach, CA (adjacent to Costa Mesa)
    • Description: Hoag is a leading healthcare provider known for its advanced medical facilities and comprehensive patient care.
    • Hoag Careers
  2. Orange Coast Medical Center
    • Location: Fountain Valley, CA (approximately 5 miles from Costa Mesa)
    • Description: Part of the MemorialCare Health System, this facility offers a wide range of specialties and employs a large number of healthcare professionals.
    • MemorialCare Careers
  3. Kaiser Permanente Orange County
    • Location: Irvine, CA (approximately 10 miles from Costa Mesa)
    • Description: Kaiser Permanente provides integrated healthcare services and is known for its focus on preventive care and chronic disease management.
    • Kaiser Permanente Careers

Prerequisites for Nurse Practitioner Programs

To enroll in an NP program, candidates typically need:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): An undergraduate degree in nursing.
  • RN Licensure: A valid and active Registered Nurse (RN) license.
  • Work Experience: Some programs require a minimum amount of clinical experience.
  • GPA Requirements: A competitive GPA, often 3.0 or higher.
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some programs may require GRE scores or an admissions interview.

Nurse Practitioner Certification Requirements in California

In California, NPs must meet specific certification requirements:

  • Master’s Degree: A graduate degree in nursing or a related clinical field from an accredited program.
  • National Certification: Certification from organizations like the ANCC or AANP.
  • Standardized Procedures: Authorization to perform specific standardized procedures as per the California Board of Registered Nursing guidelines.

For more detailed information, visit the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Licensure Requirements

To practice as an NP in California:

  • Active RN License: Must hold a valid RN license in California.
  • NP License: Meet the qualifications set by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Licensure Reciprocity

California does not have formal reciprocity agreements for NPs licensed in other states. Out-of-state NPs must apply for licensure through endorsement, meeting all California-specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Nurse Practitioner in Costa Mesa, California, opens doors to advanced practice and specialized healthcare roles. Begin your journey by exploring NP programs and contacting schools to learn more about their application processes. With dedication and the right education, you can achieve a fulfilling career as an NP.