Top 3 Tips on How to Navigate Nursing School
Nursing School Success: 3 Strategies to Stay Organized, Confident & Balanced
Starting nursing school can feel overwhelming, but you can stay on track by building a strong study routine, developing confidence through clinical practice, and prioritizing your mental health and self-care.
Stanbridge University’s Vocational Nursing (LVN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs provide students with structured study support, simulation-based clinical experiences, and complimentary 24/7 wellness counseling to help them succeed academically and personally.
With immersive learning environments, like the Cadaver Lab, Virtual Reality Lab, and high-fidelity simulation suites, students gain hands-on skills essential for patient care.
Stanbridge University’s Vocational Nursing (LVN) program is approved by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT)¹ and accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).² Graduates of the program record strong pass rates in the NCLEX-PN exam.³
Similarly, the university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)⁴ and approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).⁵ Stanbridge’s BSN students have achieved strong NCLEX-RN pass rates, underscoring the strength of the program’s preparation for nursing licensure and practice.⁶
Starting nursing school can feel like a major leap toward a meaningful career in healthcare. If you are searching for nursing school tips that can help you stay organized, confident, and balanced throughout your program, it is important to know that success begins with preparation and self-discipline.
Nursing education can be both demanding and deeply rewarding, and understanding how to balance coursework, clinical practice, and personal well-being is essential. Below are three essential strategies to help you understand how to prepare for nursing school, supported by insights from Stanbridge University’s nursing programs.
1. Create a Strong Study Routine Early
Establishing a structured study plan is one of the most effective ways to stay on track during nursing school. Between classes, labs, and exams, time can move quickly, so organization is key. Begin by setting a daily or weekly schedule that includes study blocks, rest periods, and review sessions.
Using tools like digital planners or flashcards can also make complex topics easier to manage. Also, reviewing class notes within 24 hours after lectures is a great way to reinforce memory retention. Staying consistent, even when the workload grows, will help you build lasting study habits that prepare you for success both academically and professionally.
2. Build Confidence Through Clinical Practice
Clinical and lab experiences allow students to apply what they have learned in a structured healthcare environment. These opportunities are where many students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills that are central to nursing practice.
Students in both the Vocational Nursing (LVN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs at Stanbridge University learn through innovative educational technology and guided clinical experiences. From simulated patient interactions to the Cadaver Lab, Virtual Reality Lab, and high-fidelity simulation suites, students gain valuable hands-on experience under faculty supervision. These tools help learners develop the confidence and practical decision-making abilities needed in patient care.
3. Prioritize Mental Health and Self-Care
Nursing programs can be demanding, both academically and emotionally. It is important to remember that maintaining your well-being is just as vital as passing your exams. Creating a balance between study time, rest, and personal activities can improve concentration and reduce stress.
Stanbridge University supports student wellness through complimentary 24/7 mental health counseling and personalized student services. Taking advantage of these resources can make a difference in your ability to stay motivated, focused, and engaged throughout your education.
How Do I Ensure Balance in Nursing School?
Balance in nursing school begins with managing your time and expectations. Break large assignments into smaller, achievable goals, and do not hesitate to ask for help from instructors or peers. Joining a study group can also make the learning process less stressful.
Remember, consistency and self-care are your strongest allies during challenging terms. Building a strong support network early on can help you stay grounded and encouraged throughout your studies.
Nursing Education at Stanbridge University: LVN and BSN Pathways
Stanbridge University offers two respected nursing pathways designed to prepare students for professional licensure and patient-centered care.
Vocational Nursing (LVN) Program
The Associate of Occupational Science in Vocational Nursing program is approved by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT)¹ and accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).² The LVN program integrates Next Generation NCLEX-PN (NGN) preparation throughout its curriculum, supported by simulation training and clinical rotations. The Orange County campus reported a 94.74% NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2023.³
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
The BSN program at Stanbridge University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)⁴ and approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).⁵ It provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing theory, leadership, and clinical practice. The BSN program reported a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2023–2024.⁶ Stanbridge University BSN graduates may also be eligible to continue into the Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN-Ed) program at no additional cost, provided they meet program requirements.⁷
Stanbridge University Recognition
Stanbridge University offers healthcare degree programs across its Southern California campuses in Irvine, Alhambra, Riverside, and San Marcos. The university has been recognized for both academic excellence and workplace culture, including recognition in the 2025 Carnegie Classifications as an Opportunity College⁸ and in Research.com’s 2024 Best Healthcare Degree Programs in America.⁹
Its Orange County campus earned the 2024–2025 ACCSC School of Excellence Award,¹⁰ and in 2025, Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce ranked Stanbridge among the top 5% of U.S. colleges for 10-year return on investment, based on earnings and tuition data from qualifying programs.¹¹ Stanbridge is accredited by Investors in People (London)¹² and certified as a Great Place to Work.¹³
The Takeaway: Thriving in Nursing School
Progress in nursing school is built on preparation, persistence, and support. By creating effective study habits, practicing your skills in clinical environments, and caring for your well-being, you can make the most of your nursing education. Institutions like Stanbridge University provide the structure, mentorship, and academic tools that help students prepare for a career in nursing.
Are you ready to take the next step toward your nursing career? Explore Stanbridge University’s Vocational Nursing (LVN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs to learn how immersive technology, experienced faculty, and supportive student services can help you reach your academic and professional goals. Schedule a meeting with our Admissions team today to begin your journey in nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Focus on consistency, organization, and balance. Use time management tools, join peer study groups, and seek support from academic or counseling services when needed.
There is no single easy way to pass, but steady effort and active engagement are key. Review your materials often, practice critical thinking in labs, and use faculty feedback to improve continuously.
Stanbridge University’s BSN program includes immersive learning environments such as the Cadaver Lab, Virtual Reality Lab, and high-fidelity simulation suites, which allow students to practice patient care scenarios under faculty supervision.
Maintaining emotional wellness is vital for long-term success in nursing programs. Institutions like Stanbridge University provide peer mentorship, personalized student support, and 24/7 mental health counseling, to help learners stay focused and balanced throughout their studies.
Accreditation ensures the quality and credibility of your nursing education. Look for programs approved by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) or the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), and accredited by national bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Stanbridge University’s LVN and BSN programs hold these accreditations.
Footnotes
¹ Source: California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT), Accreditation and Licensing Information. www.bvnpt.ca.gov. As viewed on November 5, 2024.
² Source: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), Accreditation Information. www.accsc.org. As viewed on November 5, 2024.
³ Source: California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Examinations Report 4 Rolling Quarter Jurisdiction. Program Summary of all First-Time Candidates Licensed in All Jurisdictions 01 Jan 2019 to 31 Dec 2023, Orange County campus only, NCLEX-PN. https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/pdf/vn_pass_rates.pdf. First-Time Candidates Licensed in All Jurisdictions. 01 Jan 2020 to 31 Dec 2023, Los Angeles campus only, NCLEX-PN. As viewed on November 5, 2024.
⁴ Source: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accredited Nursing Programs in California. https://directory.ccnecommunity.org/reports/rptAccreditedPrograms_New.asp?state=CA&sFullName=California. As viewed on November 5, 2024.
⁵ Source: California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), Pre-Licensure Registered Nursing Programs in California. https://www.rn.ca.gov/education/rnprograms.shtml. As viewed on November 5, 2024.
⁶ Source: The California Board of Registered Nursing, NCLEX-RN pass rate, NCLEX-RN, Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN) program, 2021/2022-2022/2023, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, 2023/2024; http://www.rn.ca.gov/education/passrates.shtml. As viewed on November 5, 2024.
⁷ The MSN-Ed program is available at no cost to Stanbridge University Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates who began their program on or after August 2024 and who enroll in the Master of Science in Nursing Education program beginning immediately after graduating and obtaining their NCLEX-RN licensure.
⁸ Source: https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/institution/stanbridge-university/. As viewed on May 21, 2025.
⁹ Source: Research.com, 2024 Best Healthcare Degree Programs Ranking in America, https://research.com/rankings/healthcare/best-healthcare-usa/?award=f3d66c8ef200b579. Email communication from Chief Data Scientist and Ranking Editor, Imed Bouchrika, Ph.D., to Director of Marketing, Victoria Sauer. As viewed on December 12, 2024.
¹⁰ Source: Stanbridge University, Orange County campus, Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) School of Excellence 2025 Award. Email communication from Michelle Ragland, Member Services and Events Manager, ACCSC, to Director of Marketing, Victoria Sauer. As viewed on July 17, 2025.
¹¹ Source: https://cew.georgetown.edu/cew-reports/roi2025/. As viewed March 19, 2025.
¹² Source: Investors in People. https://www.investorsinpeople.com/. As viewed on June 13, 2025.
¹³ Source: Great Place to Work. https://www.greatplacetowork.com/certified-company/7021962. As viewed on September 17, 2025.