When nursing is a calling, you will go the distance to provide the best care to those in need. The training and exposure that working as a certified nursing assistant provide is priceless. They provide an excellent start to a satisfying career attending to the medical needs of others. But there are limits to what a CNA can do, so enrolling in a vocational nursing program may be your next step on the progressive career ladder of nursing. As a vocational nurse, you will function as an integral arm of the health care team but your duties will be expanded to include the administration of medication, taking and charting vital signs, advocating for patients when needed, assisting with physical exams, and even supervising other nursing assistants. Of course, the increase in responsibilities will go hand in hand with a pay raise. These can be rewarding but the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing you can make a positive impact in the lives of your patients and their families.
Angeles Institute
Angeles Institute offers a licensed vocational nursing program for adults who have healthcare experience. It is especially designed for those who have already completed the nursing assistant program and gives them an accelerated pathway to prepare for licensure as a vocational nurse. The program includes classroom instruction and clinical experiences to prepare graduates for their role as entry-level practitioners. Students will complete a total of 1610 contact hours to obtain a vocational nurse certificate. Certified nursing assistants will obtain advanced placement in the program. Areas of study include mental health, physical assessment, role transition, gerontology nursing, medical surgical nursing, oncology, pharmacological agents, nursing interventions, safety and emergency procedures, and preparation for success on the NCLEX. The program is accredited through the State of California, the Council of Occupational Education, and the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Graduates will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX for Vocational Nurses. The duration of the program is 40 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Attend a required interview with an Admission Advisor
- Attend a required interview with a member of Nursing Administration
- Attend an interview with a financial advisor
- Must be at least 17 years of age – documentation required
- Provide proof of completing high school or GED
- Obtain a passing score on the admissions exam
- Obtain a clear criminal background check for clinical placement
- Complete drug testing – a positive result will lead to dismissal from the program
- Transfer students must provide an official transcript of previous college coursework
- Demonstrate the ability to meet the physical and mental demands of the profession
- Pass a general physical exam
- Provide proof of immunization – MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, PPD or Chest X-ray if positive
The program tuition and fees cost $31,040. They include books, uniforms, supplies, the first NCLEX exam, clinical fees, IV Blood Withdrawal Certification, and fingerprinting fees.
- Website: https://www.angelesinstitute.edu/
- Address: 17100 Pioneer Blvd, Suite 170, Artesia, CA 90701
- Phone: (562) 531-4100
- Email: info@angelesinstitute.edu
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 87%
Marian College
Certified nursing assistants have a competitive advantage when enrolling in the licensed vocational nursing program at Marian College. The comprehensive program covers 1,534 clock hours of theory and practical instruction – all of which must be completed on campus. (Note: during the COVID pandemic some of the courses will be delivered in a blended/hydrid format). The program’s emphasis on nursing theory, development, and the application of nursing skills in the basic care of patients throughout the lifespan will prepare students to function as competent practitioners. Areas of study include nursing fundamentals, pediatric nursing, gerontology nursing, mental health nursing, leadership and supervision, medical surgical nursing, pharmacology, maternity nursing, clinical rotation, and career opportunities for graduates. Students will participate in the clinical rotations at local health care facilities to apply the theoretical concepts learned in the classroom. A minimum grade of C on the classroom coursework and clinical rotations is required for successful completion of the program. Graduates will be eligible to apply to the state board to take the licensure exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Day and weekend classes are available. The weekday program can be completed in 55 weeks. The duration of the weekend class is 70 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Must be 17 years or older – parental consent required for applicants under 18
- Be able to speak, read, and comprehend English. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate competency
- Must have a high school diploma or GED – documentation required
- Take and pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 18 pts
- Schedule and attend a personal interview with an admissions representative
- Provide a valid state photo ID and social security card
- Must have current, unencumbered CNA certification in the state
- Submit letters of recommendation from a healthcare employer
- Complete a satisfactory physical exam indicating good physical health and ability to perform the essential duties of the program
- Pass a urine drug screen
- Obtain a clear background check
The cost of tuition is $26,250. Books and supplies cost an additional $3,267. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.mariancollege.edu/
- Address: 3325 Wilshire Boulevard, 10th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90010
- Phone: (213) 388-3566
- Fax: (213) 388-9606
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 84%
Healthcare Career College
Healthcare Career College provides certified nursing assistants with an opportunity to complete the requirements for licensure as a vocational nurse in the shortest time possible. The Vocational Nursing Certificate program covers 1840 contact hours of instruction in the classroom, lab, and clinical sites. Course titles include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, fundamentals of nursing, medical surgical nursing, rehabilitation nursing, medical surgical nursing, ethics, leadership, mental health nursing, maternity nursing, and pediatric nursing. Students must complete all courses including the clinical rotations within the maximum time frame allowed and obtain a minimum grade average of 76% to complete the program. Graduates will be eligible to apply to the Board for the licensure exam to become Licensed Vocational Nurses. They will demonstrate competence in direct patient care activities in hospitals and long-term care facilities, demonstrate ethical and caring behaviors in the provision of care, and be eligible for employment as a licensed vocational nursing after obtaining a license to practice. The duration of the program Is 14 months.
Admission criteria:
- Be 16 years or older. Applicants below 18 years must have parent or guardian co-sign the Enrollment Agreement
- Provide proof completing high school or GED certificate
- Schedule an attend an information session
- Submit a completed application for admission to Healthcare Career College
- Take and pass the Wonderlic SLE with a minimum score of 20
- Obtain a minimum score of 265 on each section of the Wonderlic Basic Skills Test
- Must have current certification as a nurse assistant
- Must pass a criminal background check
- Obtain a clear drug screen
- Provide proof of immunization and good physical health
- Complete and sign the enrollment documents provided by Healthcare Career College
The approximate program cost of $34,995 will cover tuition, books, lab supplies, uniforms, and equipment.
- Website: https://healthcarecareercollege.edu/
- Address: 8527 Alondra Blvd, Suite #174, Paramount, CA 90723
- Phone: (562) 804-1239
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 53%
Annenberg School of Nursing
The Vocational Nursing program at Annenberg School of Nursing grants certified nursing assistants credit for their training and certification as a nurse aide. Coursework includes 1,680 contact hours of theory and practical instruction to prepare students for licensure and practice in the role of the vocational nurse. Course titles include fundamentals of nursing, medical surgical nursing, maternal child nursing, pediatrics, leadership, long-term care, professional development, mental health, and oncology. Graduates will receive a Practical Nursing Diploma and will be eligible to apply to take the NCLEX for licensure as a vocational nurse. The duration of the program is 13 months. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 2:30 pm in the classroom and lab and Monday through Friday from 6:45 am to 3:15 pm for the clinical rotations.
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Must have completed high school or GED equivalency – diploma, official transcript, of GED certificate required
- Take and pass the ATI TEAS at a proficient level – 58.7%
- Complete a written English assignment
- Pass a physical exam – report must be signed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant
- Obtain a negative TB skin test or chest x-ray
- Complete a satisfactory Consumer Background Report
- Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English competency – reading, writing and speaking
- Schedule and attend an interview with the Program Director
- Complete the student questionnaire
- Pass a urine drug screen
The total cost of the program is $25,100. It includes the application fee, books and supplies, tuition, background check, and exams and licensing.
- Website: https://www.asn.edu/
- Address: 19300 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA 91335
- Phone: 818-757-4431
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%
American Career College
Persons with experience in healthcare can enroll in the vocational nursing program at American Career College and complete the requirements for a VN certificate in less than one year. Students will develop knowledge and skills to provide care to patients under the supervision of a physician or registered nurse in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Students will learn direct patient care, diagnostic measurements, and procedures and treatments. Course titles include anatomy and physiology, fundamentals of nursing, nutrition, medical surgical nursing, geriatrics, psychology, pharmacology, mental health, growth and development, maternal child nursing, and concept mastery. The curriculum covers a total of 1,570 contact hours including 615 hours theory, 152 hours lab, and 803 hours for the clinical rotations. Students will earn 94 quarter credits at the conclusion of the program. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN for state licensure and a career as entry-level vocational nurses. Day, evening and weekend classes are available. Day classes meet for 54 weeks. Evening/weekend classes meet for 84 weeks.
Admission criteria:
- Visit the college campus before enrollment to get a clear understanding of the requirements and to view the facilities
- Must have a valid CNA certificate for credit
- Meet with an Admissions Advisor
- Take and pass a standardized entrance exam or participate in the College’s Professional Readiness Program
- Complete the enrollment agreement – must be signed by a parent or guardian for persons under 18 years
- Pay the non-refundable application fee
- Must obtain a background clearance at the time of enrollment
- Complete health screening examination, pathology tests, and immunizations
- Be able to communicate effectively in English
- Complete drug testing
- Must have a diploma from an accredited high school or the recognized equivalent
- Must take and pass the Wonderlic SLEQ exam with a minimum score of 21
The total program cost of $38,929.50 includes tuition, the application fee, course fees, books and supplies, and STRF fee.
- Website: https://new.americancareercollege.edu/
- Address: 4021 Rosewood Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90004
- Phone: (323) 668-7555
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 97%
Pacific College
The Vocational Nursing Diploma program at Pacific College is open to certified nursing assistants seeking to prepare for licensure as a licensed vocational nurse. Training will include theory and clinical learning experiences that meets and exceeds the educational guidelines for licensure as a vocational nurse in California. Course topics include fundamental nursing concepts, pharmacology, pediatrics, medical surgical nursing, maternity nursing, and leadership. The diploma program covers 1,668 contact hours or 65 credit hours. Graduates of the diploma program have the option to complete specific general education requirements to earn an Associate of Science in Vocational Nursing. They will be equipped with knowledge, skills, and attitudes to improve the quality and safety of health care systems. They will also have the ability to pass the NCLEX-PN, develop critical thinking skills in patient care, promote evidence-based nursing practice, and demonstrate good communication skills and respect diversity and culture.
Admission criteria:
- Complete the general requirements for admission to Pacific College
- Attend a personal interview with an admissions advisor
- Complete and submit an application for admission
- Complete a background screen
- Submit a copy of high school equivalency
- Provide a copy of driver’s license or state ID
- Attend an interview with the Director of Nursing or designee
The total program cost of $33,606 includes tuition and fees, books, supplies, transportation, housing, food, and other educational expenses. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- Website: https://www.pacific-college.edu/
- Address: 3602 Inland Empire Blvd, Building A, Room 100, Ontario, CA 91764
- Phone: 800-867-2243
- NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 80%
Crystal G
Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.