Best LVN Programs in California 2026
Find Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs in California with information on schools, coursework, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing steps and explore career opportunities for vocational nurses across California.
2027 Best LVN Programs in California
Hartnell College
Salinas, CA - Public 2-Year - hartnell.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hartnell College, located in Salinas, California, offers a Vocational Nursing Certificate program designed to equip students with the skills needed for entry-level nursing practice. The 24-month curriculum integrates general education courses with specialized vocational nursing instruction, incorporating simulations, skills labs, and clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, medical offices, community agencies, and long-term care facilities. Students benefit from experienced faculty and personalized support, preparing them to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Upon completion, graduates are qualified to provide direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians, with opportunities for career advancement in a growing field. Prerequisite coursework is required for admission, and the program awards a Certificate of Achievement.
- 24-Month program
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Simulations, skills labs, clinical practice
- Careers in hospitals and medical offices
- Program coordinator contact available
- Main campus, Building O
- Certificate of Achievement awarded
Madera Community College
Madera, CA - Public 2-Year - maderacollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Madera Community College offers a three-semester Licensed Vocational Nursing program that blends theoretical instruction with hands-on clinical training. Students complete 45 credit hours at $46 per credit, totaling $2,070 in tuition, with an estimated overall program cost of $4,756. The curriculum covers foundations of nursing, pharmacology, and patient care, preparing graduates for the LVN licensing exam. Approved by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, the program provides financial aid and scholarships. Admission is competitive, selecting the first 30 qualified applicants, and prerequisites remain valid for five years. Applications must be submitted in person; the new LVN application packet opens in November 2025.
- $2,070 total program tuition
- $46 per credit
- 3-Semester program
- 45 total credit hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Approved by BVNPT
- Theory and hands-on clinical skills
- First 30 qualified applicants selected
Allan Hancock College
Santa Maria, CA - Public 2-Year - hancockcollege.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Allan Hancock College presents a hybrid Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program designed specifically for current California CNAs ready to elevate their careers. This intensive 12-month curriculum blends online instruction with hands-on clinical rotations in local hospitals and laboratories, directly leveraging students' existing CNA skills. Coursework encompasses anatomy, physiology, psychology, and nursing fundamentals, with built-in NCLEX-PN exam preparation. The program is fully approved by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). Graduates are prepared for employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The application window is fixed from April 1 to June 30, with classes starting in winter. Prerequisites include anatomy and physiology, background check, and drug screening. Financial aid is available for eligible students, making this an accessible and focused route to LVN licensure.
- Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) accredited
- 12-Month program
- Complete in twelve-month program
- Starts winter
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Current CNA certification required
- Prerequisites include Anatomy and Physiology
- Application period April 1 - June 30
College of the Redwoods
Eureka, CA - Public 2-Year - redwoods.edu
Certificate/Diploma - LVN Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
College of the Redwoods offers a three-semester, campus-based LVN program that blends classroom theory, skills labs, and clinical rotations. The curriculum progresses from human biology, nutrition, and basic patient care into medical-surgical, maternal-child, and psychiatric nursing. Clinical experiences take place at local hospitals and long-term care facilities. Graduates qualify to sit for the NCLEX-PN and can pursue roles in clinics, home health, or hospitals, or continue toward an Associate Degree in Nursing. Admission is determined by a random lottery; applicants must have a 2.5 GPA, complete prerequisites, clear a background check and drug screen, and submit an ATI TEAS score of 62% or higher. Total tuition is $6,500, with scholarships and financial aid available. The program starts in the fall and holds California BVNPT approval.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $6,500 total program tuition
- 3-Semester program
- Starts fall
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Long Beach City College
Long Beach, CA - Public 2-Year - lbcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Long Beach City College offers a full-time Vocational Nursing program delivered over three semesters, with two annual start dates and a limited cohort of 30 students per session. The curriculum covers Fundamentals of Nursing, Pharmacology, Maternal-Infant Nursing, and Common Health Deviations, emphasizing patient care, medication administration, and critical thinking. Graduates are prepared for entry-level LVN roles in hospitals, clinics, and home health settings. The program is accredited by the BVNPT and requires a CNA license for admission. Daytime weekday classes, tutoring support, and both certificate and Associate of Science degree options provide flexible pathways to LVN licensure.
- BVNPT accredited
- 3-Semester program
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
- Prepares for LVN licensure
- Admits 30 students twice a year
- Daytime weekday classes
- CNA license required
- Certificate and AS degree options
- Tutoring available
California LVN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Prospective students in California interested in becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) must meet specific eligibility and admission criteria set by both the state and individual training institutions. Applicants typically need to have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some programs may require passing scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Additional requirements can include background checks, proof of immunizations, a physical exam, and CPR certification. Schools may also conduct interviews to assess candidates’ commitment to the field of nursing
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
California LVN programs offer a blend of classroom instruction and clinical experience to prepare students for various healthcare settings. The curriculum generally includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, and geriatric care. Clinical training, held at approved healthcare sites, enables students to apply their skills in real-world settings under supervision.
Accreditation is essential in ensuring the program meets quality standards established by state and national organizations. An accredited program qualifies graduates to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical/Vocational Nurses (NCLEX-PN). In California, programs must be approved by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Attending a state-approved and accredited program is critical for licensure eligibility and employment opportunities.
LVN Schools and Classes
California is home to numerous community colleges, technical schools, and private vocational schools offering LVN programs. These institutions are located throughout the state and cater to a variety of student schedules, including full-time and part-time options. While each program may vary slightly in format, the core curriculum remains consistent with state requirements.
Students can expect to take courses in fundamentals of nursing, pharmacology, patient care, and specialized areas such as obstetrics, pediatrics, mental health, and gerontology. In addition to classroom theory, programs include supervised clinical practice in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics, providing well-rounded preparatory experience for entry-level practice.
Career Outlook
Licensed Vocational Nurses in California enjoy strong job prospects due to the state’s large population and aging demographics. LVNs are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home healthcare, physicians’ offices, and outpatient clinics. California consistently ranks among the top-paying states for LVNs, and employment is projected to remain robust with increasing demand in both urban and rural areas.
The LVN role offers a flexible career path, often with stable work hours and opportunities for advancement through specialization or continued education to become a Registered Nurse (RN). California also offers a strong regulatory framework that supports the profession through licensing and continuing education.
LVN Program Length
In California, LVN programs typically take about 12 to 18 months to complete when attending full-time. Part-time programs may take 18 to 24 months, depending on the school’s course schedule. Many schools also provide evening and weekend classes for working students or those with daytime obligations. These flexible options allow a diverse range of students to complete training while balancing other responsibilities.
2027 Shortest LVN Programs in California
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Career Networks Institute |
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| Concorde Career College-Garden Grove |
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| National Career College |
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Tuition and Costs
The cost of LVN programs in California varies by institution and location. Tuition typically ranges from $4,000 to $30,000 for the entire program. Public community colleges tend to be on the lower end of the scale, while private institutions and career colleges may charge more. In addition to tuition, students should budget for textbooks, uniforms, clinical supplies, licensing exam fees, and immunizations. Housing costs vary widely across California but are generally higher in urban centers; students should plan accordingly when relocating or budgeting for off-campus housing.
2027 Low-Cost LVN Programs in California
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Madera Community College |
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| College of the Redwoods |
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| Allan Hancock College |
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Can I Take LVN Classes Online?
LVN programs in California cannot be completed entirely online due to the state’s clinical training requirements. The California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians mandates hands-on, supervised clinical experience as a core component of all approved programs. While some theoretical coursework may be offered online or in hybrid formats, critical clinical components must be completed in person. This ensures graduates develop the practical skills and competencies needed for safe and effective patient care in licensed healthcare settings.
LVN Licensure Requirements in California
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in California, graduates of approved vocational nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This national licensing exam evaluates the essential competencies needed to perform safely and effectively as a newly licensed LVN. Applicants must first apply to the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) to determine eligibility and receive authorization to test. Upon approval, candidates register for the exam with Pearson VUE. California applicants must also submit fingerprints for background checks and provide official transcripts from their nursing program.
LVN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
California allows out-of-state LVNs to apply for licensure through endorsement if they hold a current and valid license in another state. The applicant must provide proof of passing the NCLEX-PN or an equivalent licensing exam, documentation of paid nursing work experience (at least 512 hours within the last five years) or graduation from an approved nursing program within the last five years, and meet all application and fingerprinting requirements set by the BVNPT. California does not currently participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means LVNs holding licenses in other compact member states must seek individual licensure to practice in California. Similarly, California LVNs must obtain a license in compact states if wishing to practice there.
Licensure Requirements
The California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians oversees licensure and regulation of LVNs in the state. To qualify for licensure, applicants must complete one of the following educational pathways: an approved vocational nursing program, equivalent education and experience (such as military training), or completion of registered nursing coursework. Additionally, applicants must submit a completed application, pay the required fees, pass the NCLEX-PN, and undergo a background check. Detailed requirements and approved education program lists are provided by the BVNPT.
License Renewal
California LVN licenses must be renewed every two years. To maintain active licensure, LVNs must complete 30 contact hours of continuing education through a provider recognized by the BVNPT. Licensees can begin their renewal process up to six months before expiration. There are no clinical practice hour requirements for renewal, but failure to renew on time may result in a delinquent license status, requiring additional fees or reapplication. Continuing education records should be retained by the LVN in case of audit by the Board.
California LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
Licensed Practical Nurses in California, often called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), earn an average annual salary of $79,090, which is significantly above the national average of $62,340. This substantial wage difference is primarily influenced by California's high cost of living, which requires higher compensation to maintain a comparable standard of living. Additionally, factors such as the state's large and aging population, which drives strong demand for long-term care, and a complex regulatory environment contribute to the elevated salary levels. The competitive healthcare market across the state further supports these higher wages for LPN/LVNs.
Average LVN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
California LVN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LVN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
12 to 18 months.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate of Completion or Diploma in Vocational Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes, upon completion of a BVNPT-approved program.
Program Focus:
Concentrated on fundamental nursing theory, clinical skills, and direct patient care required for licensure, with minimal general education courses.
Average In-State Tuition in California:
Varies widely. Public community college certificate programs cost approximately $3,000-$6,000, while private vocational schools can range from $25,000-$40,000+.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the quickest, most direct route to entering the nursing workforce as an LVN.
School Types:
Private vocational/career colleges, adult education centers, and some community colleges.
LVN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (approximately 24 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science (AS) in Vocational Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes, upon completion of a BVNPT-approved program.
Program Focus:
Includes all core LVN coursework plus general education requirements (e.g., English, math, social/natural sciences), providing a broader academic foundation.
Average In-State Tuition in California:
Approximately $4,000-$7,000 for the entire program at a California Community College, including tuition, fees, and books.
Best For:
Students who plan to continue their education to become a Registered Nurse (RN), as general education credits are often transferable.
School Types:
Primarily California Community Colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry to Workforce: The shorter program length (typically 12-18 months) allows you to start working and earning income as an LVN sooner.
- Focused Curriculum: The program concentrates solely on the nursing skills and knowledge needed to pass the NCLEX-PN and work effectively, without additional general education courses.
- Program Availability: Certificate programs are offered at a wider variety of institutions, including private career colleges that may have more frequent start dates and flexible scheduling (e.g., evening/weekend classes).
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Clear Pathway to RN: This is the strongest reason. The general education courses completed are foundational for bridging to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
- Greater Cost-Effectiveness: When pursued at a community college, the total tuition for an associate degree is often significantly lower than the tuition for a diploma at a private vocational school.
- Enhanced Skills & Employability: The broader education, including courses in communication and critical thinking, can make you a more well-rounded candidate and may be preferred by some employers.
- Higher Academic Standing: An associate degree holds more academic weight than a certificate, which can be beneficial for long-term career growth and educational opportunities.
📚 LVN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in California
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LVN | $65,000 - $90,000 | 12-24 months | NCLEX-PN | 954+ hours | $10,000 - $40,000 |
| MA | $40,000 - $58,000 | 6-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or CCMA (NHA) | 160-200 hours | $4,000 - $15,000 |
| CNA | $38,000 - $51,000 | 2-4 months | National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) | 100+ hours | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| DA | $45,000 - $61,000 | 9-12 months | RDA Written, Practical & Law/Ethics Exams | 160-300 hours | $5,000 - $20,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $47,000 - $65,000 | 6-12 months | PTCE or ExCPT | 120-300 hours | $4,000 - $12,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $47,000 - $63,000 | 2-4 months | CPT (NHA) or PBT (ASCP) | 40+ hours, 50 venipunctures | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| OTA | $70,000 - $95,000 | 24 months (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $10,000 - $50,000 |
List of LVN Programs in California
Anaheim, CA
California Career Institute
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid modality
- 1574 hours duration
- Diploma of Vocational Nursing
- Anaheim and Hawthorne locations
- Classroom and clinical experience
- Financial aid available
- Small class sizes
- Experienced instructors
North-West College-Anaheim
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Meets California licensure requirements.
- Exceeds 1,530 clock hours.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Includes clinical externships.
- Covers nursing fundamentals.
- Teaches anatomy and physiology.
- Includes pharmacology training.
Platt College-Anaheim
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Associate's Degree or diploma.
- Complete in 18 months.
- Full-time and part-time options.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Campus-based lectures and labs.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Approved by California BVNPT.
- Financial aid available.
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Complete in 12 to 18 months to complete
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Hands-on clinical training in real healthcare settings
- Curriculum covers anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical, maternal-child nursing
- Transfer to Registered Nursing program available
- Careers: LVN, Home Health Nurse, School Nurse
- Work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, home health
Chula Vista, CA
Southwestern College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 18-month program length
- Three semester duration
- Campus-based instruction
- Prepares for community nursing
- Covid-19 vaccination required
- Background check mandatory
- Drug screening required
- Immunization documentation needed
Clovis, CA
Institute of Technology
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACCSC accredited
- 51-Week program
- Complete in as few as three semesters
- Full-time and part-time options
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- NCLEX-PN exam fee included in tuition
- Hands-on laboratory patient care training
- Career placement support for graduates
Downey, CA
Downey Adult School
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- BVNPT accredited
- Entrance exam required
- $17,999 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- Median Wage: $30.51
- 960 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Prepares for LVN roles in schools, nursing homes, hospices
Eureka, CA
College of the Redwoods
- Certificate/Diploma - LVN Program
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $6,500 total program tuition
- 3-Semester program
- Starts fall
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Garden Grove, CA
Concorde Career College-Garden Grove
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical / Vocational Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Website
- BVNPT accredited
- Complete in as few as 13-months
- Full-time and part-time options
- 757 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- NCLEX-PN review included
Glendora, CA
Citrus College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-VN
- Develops skills required for licensed vocational nurse
- Clinical experience in local hospitals and clinics
- Coursework applies toward associate degree
- Certificate of Achievement awarded
- Learning outcomes include problem-solving skills
- Offered by Health Sciences division
Lancaster, CA
Antelope Valley Community College District
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 12-Month program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Multi-criteria points system for admission
Career Care Institute
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 14-month program length
- Campus-based instruction
- Accepts transfer credits
- Three California campus locations
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Classroom and clinical training
- 92% job placement rate
- $25/hour average starting salary
High Desert Medical College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 61-Week program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 680 clinical hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- NCLEX-PN exam cost included
Long Beach, CA
Long Beach City College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- BVNPT accredited
- 3-Semester program
- Full-time enrollment
- 2 start dates per year
- Prepares for LVN licensure
- Admits 30 students twice a year
- Daytime weekday classes
- CNA license required
North-West College-Long Beach
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Program length: Over 1,530 clock hours.
- Campus-based program only.
- Meets California LVN licensure requirements.
- Includes clinical externships.
- Covers nursing fundamentals and anatomy.
- Pharmacology training included.
- Multiple campus locations available.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
Madera, CA
Madera Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- $2,070 total program tuition
- $46 per credit
- 3-Semester program
- 45 total credit hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Approved by BVNPT
Merced, CA
Merced College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- BVNPT accredited
- 3-Semester program
- Starts spring/fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for National Licensure Examination
- Complete Vocational Nursing Skills Lab
- State-of-the-art equipment and software
- Clinical work at affiliated facilities
Napa, CA
Napa Valley College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-Year program
- Complete in part-time two-year program
- 3 total courses
- Part-time available
- 93% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
North Hollywood, CA
Concorde Career College-North Hollywood
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 13-month daytime program.
- 20-month evening/weekend option.
- 66.5 credit hours.
- 198 lab hours.
- 757 clinical hours.
- Campus-based learning.
- NCLEX-PN review included.
- California BVNPT approved.
Panorama City, CA
National Career College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing (VN)
Campus Based - Website
- 14-month program length.
- Diploma credential awarded.
- On-campus location in Panorama City.
- Day and evening class schedules.
- 58.5 semester credit hours.
- 842 clinical hours required.
- ABHES accreditation.
- CA Board of Vocational Nursing approved.
Pasadena, CA
Integrity College of Health
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 62-week full-time program.
- 84-week part-time option.
- 1,530 total clock hours.
- In-person campus learning.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Certificate of Completion awarded.
- Vocational Nursing diploma granted.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
Pittsburg, CA
Los Medanos College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Semester program
- Cares for clients of all ages
- Practice under RN or physician direction
Pleasant Hill, CA
Carrington College-Pleasant Hill Campus
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program.
- 12-month completion time.
- Campus-based learning.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Medical-surgical nursing focus.
- Mental health nursing included.
- Pediatric nursing covered.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Chaffey College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- BVNPT accredited
- According to California EDD Labor Market Data for 2020, Licensed Vocational Nurses can expect to earn between $52,000 and $70,000 annually
- Prerequisite courses required
- BVNPT accredited since 1955
- Hands-on classes and simulation
- Clinical partnerships with 10 facilities
- Faculty expertise across specialties
- Prepares for rewarding healthcare careers
Rancho Mirage, CA
California Nurses Educational Institute
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nurse Program
Campus Based - Website
- 14-month program duration.
- Cost: $37,900.
- Campus-based, in-person format.
- High school diploma required.
- 1,530 total training hours.
- 576 theory hours.
- 954 clinical and lab hours.
- Four-term curriculum structure.
Riverside, CA
Riverside City College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- BVNPT, ACEN accredited
- $46 per credit
- 12-Month program
- 51 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento City College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in full-time, three-semester program
- Apply by 2027-02-28
- Full-time enrollment
- Prerequisite courses required
Salinas, CA
Hartnell College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 24-Month program
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Simulations, skills labs, clinical practice
- Careers in hospitals and medical offices
- Program coordinator contact available
- Main campus, Building O
- Certificate of Achievement awarded
San Diego, CA
North-West College-San Diego
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Program length: 1,530 clock hours.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Meets California licensure requirements.
- Includes clinical externships.
- Courses in nursing fundamentals.
- Anatomy and physiology training.
- Pharmacology education.
San Francisco, CA
City College of San Francisco
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians accredited
- 18-Month program
- Prepares for state licensure in vocational nursing
- Full-time, three-semester program
- Classroom and hospital experience
- 40.5 units of college credit
- Employment in diverse healthcare settings
- Career assessment and counseling available
San Jose, CA
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Military benefits accepted
- Financial aid available
- Integrates nursing, behavioral, and physical sciences
- Prepares students for diverse client care
- Available at five California campuses
San Luis Obispo, CA
Cuesta College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) Certificate of Achievement
Campus Based - Website
- ACCJC, BVNPT accredited
- 3-Semester program
- Full-time enrollment
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Full-time, 5 days a week
- Clinical rotations in varied settings
Santa Ana, CA
Career Networks Institute
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Diploma Program
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS, HESI
- 12-Month program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- 71% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Barbara City College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Semester program
- 50 total credit hours
- Full-time enrollment
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- CNA to LVN Pathway
Santa Maria, CA
Allan Hancock College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Vocational Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) accredited
- 12-Month program
- Complete in twelve-month program
- Starts winter
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Current CNA certification required
Stockton, CA
Carrington College-Stockton
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Certificate program in Practical Nursing.
- Prepares for LPN/LVN licensure.
- Can complete in 12 months.
- Campus-based learning in Stockton, CA.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Covers medical-surgical nursing.
- Includes mental health nursing.
Xavier College School of Nursing
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing (VN) Program
Campus Based - Website
- Eleven-month certificate program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensing exam.
- Board-approved by BVNPT since 2005.
- Campus-based instruction in Stockton.
- Clinical practice at local facilities.
- Includes fundamentals of nursing course.
- Covers anatomy and physiology.
- Teaches pharmacological nursing.
Torrance, CA
Homestead Schools
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for LVN licensure.
- Entry-level nursing skills.
- High school diploma required.
- English proficiency needed.
- Preadmission test score 76%.
- Background check clearance.
- Physical exam required.
Vacaville, CA
Blake Austin College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration
- Day or evening class options
- 1,620 total training hours
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure exam
- Includes CPR certification training
- Simulated patient-care environment
- Hospital-type bed equipment
- Simulation manikins available
West Covina, CA
North-West College-West Covina
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Vocational Nursing program available.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN/VN exam.
- Day and evening classes offered.
- Hands-on clinical experience included.
- Curriculum covers nursing fundamentals.
- Includes anatomy and physiology.
- Pharmacology training provided.
- Child health nursing covered.
Whittier, CA
Rio Hondo College
- Certificate/Diploma - Vocational Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- California State Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians accredited
- 2-Semester program
- Apply by 2026-08-28
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for VN-NCLEX
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