School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University
General Information of School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University
Overview
The School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University (APU) combines faith‑based values with rigorous professional preparation in nursing. Located in the Los Angeles foothills in Azusa, California, the school emphasizes compassionate care, servant‑leadership, and excellence in healthcare practice rooted in Christian traditions. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that integrates clinical experiences, simulation labs, community health outreach and global opportunities. APU’s nursing programs are nationally recognized, with the School of Nursing ranked in the top five percent of nursing education programs in the country in recent years.
Through traditional BSN pathways, accelerated and RN‑to‑BSN options, graduate degrees and certificate programs, the school meets the needs of new students and practicing nurses alike. The institution’s mission fosters professional integrity, cultural competence and a commitment to improving health outcomes for diverse populations. The nursing school environment values small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and a community of learners dedicated to service and scholarship. Its strategic location in Southern California offers access to a wide variety of clinical settings—from urban hospitals to community clinics—enriching student preparation for the dynamic, complex healthcare environment of the 21st century.
Contact Information
Address: 901 E. Alosta Avenue, Azusa, CA 91702, United States
Phone Number: (626)‑969‑3435
Email Address: nursing@apu.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | Azusa Pacific University established 1899; School of Nursing operates as part of the university’s professional programs |
| Motto / Mission | “God First” and preparing learners to serve with professional competence and moral character |
| Type | Private, Christian university (School of Nursing is an academic unit within APU) |
| Accreditation | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
| Campus Setting | Suburban foothills near Los Angeles, California |
| Student‑Faculty Ratio (universitywide) | Approx. 10 : 1 |
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Rankings
| Ranking Organization | National Rank / Position | Other / Global Rank |
|---|---|---|
| College Factual – nursing education programs (2024) | Top 5 % of nursing programs in the nation | – |
| Money magazine – ROI for nursing and education graduate schools | Recognized among schools with high value | – |
| U.S. News (undergraduate nursing category) | Nationally recognized, regional ranking strong | – |
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Academics
Faculties / Departments
Within the School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University, academic structure includes several divisions and departments to serve undergraduate and graduate nursing education:
- Division of Undergraduate Nursing (Traditional BSN, RN‑to‑BSN, Transfer BSN)
- Division of Graduate Nursing (MSN, Entry‑Level Master’s, Post‑Master’s)
- Department of Advanced Practice Nursing (Nurse Practitioner tracks, Clinical Nurse Specialist)
- Department of Nursing Leadership, Education & Administration
- Department of Doctoral Studies in Nursing (PhD, DNP)
Courses and Programs / Majors
Azusa Pacific University’s School of Nursing offers a breadth of nursing pathways across levels of preparation:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional entry for first‑time undergraduates
- BSN – Accelerated or second‑degree for those holding a prior bachelor’s in another field
- RN to BSN completion program for licensed registered nurses
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult‑Gerontology, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Informatics, Administration, Education
- Post‑Master’s Certificates for advanced practice specialty or leadership roles
- Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) preparing nurse scientists and educators
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) preparing advanced practice leaders and executives
Online Learning
The School of Nursing at APU provides flexible delivery formats, particularly for graduate nursing programs. Many MSN concentrations and certificate programs are offered online or in hybrid format, allowing working professionals to progress in their education while balancing employment and clinical responsibilities. The school incorporates simulation labs, asynchronous coursework, virtual clinical content and regional campus options across Southern California. Undergraduate nursing pathways are more campus‑based due to intensive clinical and lab components, but the institution maintains robust support for remote learners in graduate settings, fostering access and adaptability in nursing education.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Range / Middle 50% |
|---|---|
| SAT (University admission) | Mid‑50% composite about 1146 (for APU overall) [≈470‑610 Math; 510‑630 Verbal] |
| ACT (University admission) | Average composite around 23 |
| Prerequisite GPA (nursing major) | Applicants must often hold minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 for nursing major admission |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The universitywide first‑year retention rate at Azusa Pacific University stands at approximately 84% for full‑time undergraduates, reflecting solid student persistence. For nursing students, progression is closely monitored: once admitted into the BSN program at the School of Nursing, students must meet rigorous standard criteria such as a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and at least 2.7 in science courses to continue. These academic safeguards, cohort model and strong faculty mentorship contribute to a high rate of success among nursing graduates. The nursing school’s recognition as top‑tier nationally underscores its capacity to retain, support and graduate students prepared for professional licensure and practice.
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Applicants to the School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University must demonstrate strong academic performance. For the traditional BSN track, prospective students typically present a minimum cumulative GPA around 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for major admission. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are evaluated within the broader university admissions; for example, the university profile shows average SAT composite around 1146 and ACT around 23. In addition to these metrics, nursing applicants must complete prerequisite science courses (such as biology and chemistry) with high grades (minimum B‑/2.7 in the sciences) and demonstrate readiness for rigorous coursework and clinical practice. Because the nursing major is highly selective, meeting minimums does not guarantee admission; competitive applicants also showcase strong healthcare exposure, leadership, service involvement and alignment with the school’s mission of holistic, faith‑based care.
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Acceptance Rate
| Program Level | Approximate Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Traditional BSN cohort (nursing major) | Around 10‑14% of applicants (for cohort size ~100) |
| University‑wide undergraduate admission | Approximately 80% acceptance overall |
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Application Requirements
To apply to the School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University, candidates must complete the university’s undergraduate admission process followed by nursing‑major specific criteria. Prospective students must submit official high school or college transcripts, standardized test scores if applicable, and meet prerequisite course requirements, including biology and chemistry courses. Applicants to the nursing major also submit evidence of GPA (typically minimum 3.5 for major entry), proof of completion of prerequisite science labs (with minimum grade B‑ or better), a one‑page personal statement of professional goals in nursing, and in some cases letters of recommendation and résumé of healthcare or service‑related work experience. Additional requirements may include immunizations, background check, CPR certification and demonstration of technical standards for nursing practice. Admission to the nursing major is highly competitive; fulfilling minimum standards does not guarantee acceptance into the cohort.
Application Process
- Submit the general undergraduate application to Azusa Pacific University
- Meet standard university admission requirements (transcripts, test scores, GPA)
- Complete nursing‑major supplemental application including prerequisite verification
- Provide personal statement, résumé of healthcare or community service, and recommendations as required
- Submit proof of completion of required science courses with acceptable grades (anatomy, chemistry, etc)
- After acceptance into the nursing major, complete clinical readiness requirements (health clearance, immunizations, CPR certification, background check)
- If admitted, attend orientation and begin nursing coursework following the cohort schedule
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Program | Deadline Approximation |
|---|---|
| Traditional BSN (Fall entry) | Application normally by early year (e.g., January–February) |
| Transfer BSN / RN‑to‑BSN | Varies by semester; recommended early spring |
| Graduate nursing programs | Varies by track, common deadlines in late winter/early spring |
Essay Prompt
Applicants to the School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University are asked to submit a personal statement that describes their motivation for choosing nursing, experiences in healthcare or community service, leadership or collaborative roles, understanding of nursing’s evolving challenges and how they intend to contribute to compassionate and competent patient care. Graduate applicants may also be asked to articulate future goals in advanced practice, research or education within nursing.
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Scholarships
The School of Nursing offers a variety of scholarships and awards directed toward nursing students, including merit‑based scholarships, need‑based aid, endowed awards for leadership and service in healthcare, and grants for students entering underserved communities or advanced practice tracks. Additionally, students may access university‑wide institutional scholarships, federal and state financial aid, work‑study opportunities and nursing‑specific grant programs. Interested students should engage early with the nursing school’s scholarship office and financial aid resources to maximize available funding opportunities.
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program Level | Estimated Annual Tuition/Fees |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (full‑time tuition) | Approximately $42,900 per year (2024‑25 figure) |
| Graduate nursing programs | Varies by specialization and modality; students should refer to specific program cost sheets |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
At Azusa Pacific University, across the student body, approximately 66 % of undergraduate students are women and 34 % are men. The racial/ethnic composition indicates significant representation of Hispanic/Latino students (~38.9 %) followed by White (~24.6 %), Asian (~15.4 %), Black/African American (~6.8 %) and other identities. Within the School of Nursing, cohorts are similarly predominantly female, reflecting national patterns in nursing education, and include a mix of ages, backgrounds and career trajectories (fresh first‑time students, transfer students, second‑degree entrants and RN‑to‑BSN students). This diversity of experience enriches the learning environment and prepares graduates for work in varied clinical settings.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University supports students from low‑income backgrounds and those with disabilities through financial aid, scholarship opportunities, academic accommodations and dedicated student‑success services. The broader university is designated a Hispanic‑Serving Institution and an AANAPISI institution, underscoring its commitment to access and equity for historically underserved populations. Students with disabilities may access university‑wide accessibility services, and nursing‑specific clinical readiness supports ensure accommodations across labs, simulation experiences and clinical placements to enable full participation and success in the rigorous nursing curriculum.
Student Body
| Category | Value (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Total University Enrollment (2023) | ~6,487 students (including undergraduate and graduate) |
| Undergraduate Women Percentage | ~66 % of undergraduates are female |
| Racial/Ethnic Minority Representation | ~60 % of students identify as racial/ethnic minorities |
University Diversity
The School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University embraces a deeply inclusive and mission‑driven community where diversity is a strength. The university’s status as a Hispanic‑Serving Institution and Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution signifies active efforts to recruit and support students from Latinx, Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander backgrounds. The nursing school intentionally cultivates cohorts that reflect the multicultural populations served in Southern California and beyond, enabling students to develop cultural competence, engage in inter‑professional care across demographic groups, and address health disparities. The learning community is enriched by students of varying ages, academic backgrounds, career paths and life experiences—from traditional undergraduate learners to adult RNs seeking advancement. Faculty mentorship, service‑learning projects, global health experiences and community clinical placements reinforce the school’s focus on equity, inclusion and social justice. In this environment, students are prepared to be responsive and adaptive in diverse healthcare settings and to act as advocates for patient populations across cultural and socioeconomic spectrums.
Average Earnings
Graduates of the School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University are positioned for strong career outcomes in nursing practice, leadership and advanced roles. While specific median earnings for every program are not publicly detailed, the nursing BSN remains the university’s most awarded bachelor’s degree, indicative of strong demand and workforce readiness. National trends for BSN graduates show median early‑career salaries in registered nursing jobs often range from the low to mid $70,000s, while graduates of master’s and doctoral tracks (in nurse practitioner, administration, or education) frequently enter careers with salaries well into six figures. APU’s recognition for value in nursing education, combined with its strong clinical partnerships and alumni network in Southern California, suggests graduates benefit from substantial earning potential and career mobility in clinical, educational and leadership settings.
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty and staff of the School of Nursing at Azusa Pacific University include full‑time nursing professors, clinical adjunct faculty drawn from regional healthcare settings, simulation specialists, instructional designers for online and hybrid modalities, academic advisors, lab coordinators, research staff and administrative personnel. This multidisciplinary team supports classroom instruction, clinical skill development, simulation learning, program coordination and student success services. The favorable student‑faculty ratio and cohort model enhance engagement, mentorship opportunities and individualized support for nursing students across all levels.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at the School of Nursing are distinguished by professional experience, scholarship, clinical expertise and commitment to compassionate care. Faculty hold terminal degrees and advanced certifications, lead research initiatives in areas such as nursing education, community health, simulation, and faith‑integrated practice, and serve as leaders in professional nursing associations. Many have direct clinical roles or past leadership positions in hospitals, clinics and public health agencies, enabling students to learn from educators who bridge academia and practice. The school’s high ranking among nursing programs reflects faculty investment in teaching excellence, innovation in curriculum design and student outcomes.
School of Nursing – Azusa Pacific University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Nursing students at Azusa Pacific University benefit from the broader residential campus in Azusa, California, which offers on‑campus residence halls, apartment‑style living, living‑learning communities and off‑campus housing options in the nearby region. Housing costs vary based on room style, board plan and term; students are advised to budget accordingly and explore financial aid and commuter options if living off‑campus. Student life is enriched by nursing student associations, simulation competitions, service‑learning engagements, faith‑based organizations, global health trip opportunities and interdisciplinary collaborations with other health science programs. The campus setting fosters a holistic student experience, blending rigorous nursing preparation with social engagement, spiritual formation and leadership development.
Transportation
The azusa campus is accessible via the greater Los Angeles metro region, with campus roads, parking permits, and local transit options available to students. For nursing students participating in clinical placements across Southern California, ease of access to major highways and regional healthcare facilities is an asset. The university encourages sustainable transportation alternatives, including rideshare programs, campus shuttles and bicycle options. Students can navigate between academic buildings, labs, simulation centers and off‑site clinical sites efficiently, supporting the demands of nursing education and professional preparation.