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Point Loma Nazarene University vs San Jose State University

DNP programs compared — side-by-side on NCLEX pass rates, tuition, admissions, and format.

Updated Reviewed by NurseWay Editorial Team

At a glance

Higher NCLEX pass rate
San Jose State University
91.6% vs 78.9%
Lower tuition
San Jose State University
$9,426 vs $11,880
Easier to get into
Point Loma Nazarene University
81.8% vs 80.2% acceptance

Side-by-side details

Best value in each row is highlighted.

Point Loma Nazarene University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.
San Jose State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.
Program typeDNPDNP
Formatin personin person
LocationSan Diego, CASan Jose, CA
Length36 months36 months
NCLEX pass rate78.9%91.6%BEST
Acceptance rate81.8%BEST80.2%
Avg accepted GPA
Min GPA
Entrance exam
Total tuition$11,880$9,426 in / $18,930 outBEST
In-state tuition$11,880$9,426BEST
Out-of-state tuition$11,880BEST$18,930
Clinical placement
AccreditationCCNECCNE

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has a higher NCLEX pass rate, Point Loma Nazarene University or San Jose State University?

San Jose State University's DNP program has the higher first-attempt NCLEX pass rate at 91.6%, compared to 78.9% for the other program. NCLEX pass rates are the single best signal of how well a program prepares students for licensure.

Which is cheaper, Point Loma Nazarene University or San Jose State University?

San Jose State University is the more affordable option at roughly $9,426, compared to $11,880. Factor in residency status, financial aid, and program length when deciding — total cost matters more than annual tuition.

Are Point Loma Nazarene University and San Jose State University the same type of program?

Both are DNP programs, so they award the same credential. Compare them on NCLEX pass rate, tuition, length, and location to find the better fit.

How do I decide between Point Loma Nazarene University and San Jose State University?

Start by ruling out programs you can't get into (compare your GPA against each school's admissions stats), then weight what matters most — NCLEX pass rate for quality, total tuition for cost, length for time-to-degree, and format (online, hybrid, in-person) for lifestyle. Use NurseWay's free intake to get a personalized fit score for both.

Want a personalized fit score?

Take the free 3-minute intake and we'll rank both programs against your GPA, location preferences, and budget.