Registered Nursing Program
About the Program
The Registered Nursing Program at Bakersfield College prepares students to become skilled and compassionate Registered Nurses (RNs). Nursing combines knowledge from science and the arts to help patients of all ages and backgrounds.
The program focuses on building critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to care for diverse patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. BC’s nursing faculty values each student’s unique background and supports their learning through hands-on experiences and innovative teaching.
Graduates of the program are ready to provide safe, effective, and culturally sensitive care as professional nurses in today’s healthcare environment.
Accreditation Information
The Registered Nursing Program (RNP) at Kern Community College District at the Bakersfield College campus located in Bakersfield, California, is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000
The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the RNP Associate Nursing Program is Accredited.
View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program on the ACEN website.
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 is a healthcare profession focused on caring for patients and supporting their recovery. Registered Nurses (RNs) work in many settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health care.
RNs work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to create and follow patient care plans. They give medications and treatments, monitor patients’ progress, and teach patients and families how to manage their health.
Many nurses choose to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or oncology. To become a Registered Nurse, you must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
Is Registered Nursing Right for Me?
If you have a strong desire to help others and want a meaningful career in healthcare, the Registered Nursing Program at Bakersfield College could be a great fit.
This program is ideal if you:
- Want a shorter and more affordable path to becoming a nurse
- Prefer a two-year associate degree program
- Need a flexible option instead of a full-time, four-year program
- Want to begin working and gaining experience in the nursing field soon
Nursing is a rewarding career that allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives while building valuable skills and long-term job stability.
Traits and Skills for Success
Successful nursing students often have:
- Empathy and compassion
- Strong communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Adaptability and emotional resilience
- Physical stamina
If you are caring, focused, and motivated to help others, you are likely to succeed in both the Registered Nursing program and your future career as a nurse.
Registered Nursing Programs
Earn your Associate in Science degree in Registered Nursing at Bakersfield College and gain the skills to become a competent and compassionate Registered Nurse.
Select the degree title for the catalog description and requirements.
Registered Nursing Careers
Graduates with an Associate in Science in Registered Nursing can pursue many rewarding career paths in healthcare, including:
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Public Health Nurse
- School Nurse
Registered Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community settings, providing care, education, and support to patients and families.
Transfer to a University
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.
Not sure where to start? Let us help.
Meet with a Counselor
Take the classes that meet your education and career goals. Create your Comprehensive
Student Education Plan (CSEP) with your Counselor or Ed. Advisor.
Call (661) 395-4421.
Not sure about your career path?
Take the career quiz to discover the perfect career based on your personality type and interests.
