Best LVN Programs in California

Last Updated/Verified: Feb 13, 2023

California is leading the charge in training and hiring new licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) to meet the growing demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) even projects 9% growth in employment for the industry through 2029, leading many to pursue this career pathway. LVNs in California earn approximately $33.62 per hour, which equates to an average annual salary of $69,930. This is roughly $14,070 per year more than the national average.

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Are you looking to become a licensed vocational nurse in California? The school you choose is important when it comes to getting your license. Approved programs in California are offered at community colleges, technical centers, and private career schools - we list 122 schools across the state. After careful review of NCLEX-PN exam first-time pass rates over the past several years, we have ranked the top 50 programs. For more information on our LVN program rankings, see our Methodology page.

To see all the top ranked LVN programs in California click here.

Details on California LVN Schools & Classes

To become an LVN in California, you’ll need to enroll in and graduate from an accredited school. Once complete, students must take and pass the NCLEX-PN exam in order to gain licensure. LVN programs can be round at a variety of colleges and technical/vocational schools across the state, making it easy for students to find one that suits their needs. LVN programs consist of a mix of nursing-specific courses and labs, with titles such as:

  • Anatomy and Physiology for Vocational Nurses
  • Nursing of the Mature Adult Theory
  • Pediatric Nursing Theory

Accreditation

The first thing students can do when researching LVN programs is to search for accredited schools. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is a widely-known national accrediting body to keep an eye out for, and regional accreditations exist as well. You can also look for programs endorsed by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians.

Admission Requirements

California LVN schools typically require the following in order to be eligible for admission, though it’s important to keep in mind that these requirements may vary from school to school:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Transcripts of any previous college work
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • CPR certification for healthcare providers

Tuition and Costs

Many students are scared off by the thought of LVN school tuition, but there are programs in the state that fit many budgets. Students must consider the cost of tuition, mandatory school/program fees, and extras like textbooks and uniforms. The LVN program at southern California’s Pasadena City College, for example, runs roughly $4,463 in its entirety.

For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our California LVN to RN/BSN programs page.

California LVN Licensing Requirements

To become an LVN in the state of California, the applicant must complete 1,530 education hours at a vocational, trade, or private LVN school approved by the California Nursing Board—576 of these hours are in theory and 54 in pharmacology. Training includes coursework in: anatomy and physiology, psychology, communications, patient education, nutrition, growth and development, rehabilitation, maternity, and much more. The program can take anywhere from 12 to 20 months, depending on the level of commitment—part-time or full-time coursework. Other requirements to become an LVN may include physical strength requirements, including the ability to life patients, pulling and pushing patients and machinery, and extended periods of standing, squatting, walking, and running. There are no continued education requirements for those holding an LVN license, but licenses must be renewed biennially. If the license holder fails to renew for 2 or more years, he or she will be required to complete an additional 30 hours of continued education over the next 2 years.

NCLEX Exam Information

Once students graduate from an LVN program and complete their training, they must register for and pass the required test, known as the NCLEX-PN. This test consists of roughly 100 nursing-related questions, and students are required to pass this in order to be eligible for licensure as a vocational nurse. More about the NCLEX-PN can be found here, and students can also take advantage of our NCLEX-PN practice test in order to prep for the exam.

LVN Reciprocity and NLC

California is currently pending legislation for participation as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. An individual can also become an LVN in the state of California by endorsement (transferring with a license from another state), in which he or she must have completed one of the following:

  • Graduated from an approved LVN program
  • Graduated from another state’s approved LVN/LPN program
  • Completed and education and experience equivalent
  • Completed the education and experience equivalent in the US military

And:

  • The applicant applying for endorsement must have received a passing score on either the NCLEX or SBTPE and submit verification of current licensure.

Check out more detailed information about LVN endorsement by application in California. Learn more about an alternative way to gain LVN licensure in California.

Top Ranked California LVN Programs

1

Gavilan College

5055 Santa Teresa Blvd, Gilroy, CA 95020 - (408) 848-4800 - Visit Homepage

Gavilan College is located in Gilroy, California, with additional locations in Hollister and Morgan Hill. Gavilan College believes in using both traditional and emerging learning practices to cultivate curriculum comprehension and personal growth in its LVN program offering, which can be completed in just 1.5 academic years (3 semesters).

Overall Score: 100.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
2

Copper Mountain College

6162 Rotary Way, Joshua Tree, CA 92252 - (760) 366-3791 - Visit Homepage

Copper Mountain College (CMC) is located in Joshua Tree, California, and offers a wide range of programs for degree transfers, associate's degrees, and certificates. CMC's Vocational Nursing program can be completed in just 3 semesters, starting each June and finishing the following May. Grads of the program learn through nursing theory and labs to provide competent patient care.

Overall Score: 100.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
3

Annenberg School of Nursing

19300 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA 91335 - (818) 757-4431 - Visit Homepage

The Annenberg School of Nursing (ASN) is located in Reseda, California - part of the San Fernando Valley. ASN boasts an intimate learning environment where men and women are trained to become qualified healthcare practitioners. ASN prepares vocational nursing (VN) students for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.

Overall Score: 100.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
4

College of the Redwoods

7351 Tompkins Hill Rd, Eureka, CA 95501 - (707) 476-4100 - Visit Homepage

College of the Redwoods puts student success first by providing outstanding developmental, career technical, and transfer education. The College partners with the community to contribute to the economic vitality and lifelong learning needs of its service area. Its 3-semester LVN program helps students develop the interpersonal and clinical skills needed to find gainful employment in healthcare facilities.

Overall Score: 100.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
5

Mira Costa College

1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside, CA 92056 - (760) 757-2121 - Visit Homepage

MiraCosta College is a two-year community college located in Oceanside, California, with an additional campus in Cardiff. MiraCosta College seeks to provide quality vocational nursing education to the northern San Diego area to foster student success, as well as pursue institutional excellence.

Overall Score: 99.20 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
6

Allan Hancock College

800 S College Dr, Santa Maria, CA 93454 - (805) 922-6966 - Visit Homepage

Allan Hancock College (AHC) is a public community college located in Santa Maria, California, with additional locations in Lompoc, Solvang, and Vanderberg AFB. AHC provides quality LVN education that can be completed in 12 months, enhancing student learning through excellence in teaching and by finding innovative ways to enhance achievement.

Overall Score: 98.80 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
7

North Orange County ROP

385 N Muller St, Anaheim, CA 92801 - (714) 502-5800 - Visit Homepage

North Orange County ROP has been providing high-quality career and technical education for decades. The Vocational Nursing Program at North Orange County ROP is constructed to prepare adult students with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to become LVNs in California. The year-long program offers courses on weekdays, with possible afternoon/evening clinicals.

Overall Score: 98.60 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
8

Antelope Valley College

3041 West Avenue K, Lancaster, CA 93536 - (661) 722-6300 - Visit Homepage

Antelope Valley College of Lancaster offers a 12-month LVN program for ambitious students. Those enrolled in the 51-unit program take courses in Nutrition, General Psychology, Fundamentals of Patient Care for Vocational Nurses, and much more. Graduates are well-prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN examination.

Overall Score: 98.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
9

Bakersfield Adult School

2727 F Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301 - (661) 861-1151 - Visit Homepage

Bakersfield Adult School has two campuses located in Bakersfield, California, offering vocational career training and workforce development, as well as GED coursework, continuing education, and more. BAS's vocational nursing program can be completed in 22 months and consists of nursing theory courses and clinical hours.

Overall Score: 97.80 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
10

Mission College

3000 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054 - (408) 988-2200 - Visit Homepage

Mission College is a public community college located in Santa Clara, California, offering transfer options to a four-year university as well as career options, associate degree options, and workforce development options. Mission College encourages nursing student success by offering both a certificate and an AS degree in Vocational Nursing.

Overall Score: 97.60 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
11

College of the Siskiyous

800 College Ave, Weed, CA 96094 - (530) 938-5555 - Visit Homepage

College of the Siskiyous (COS) is an accredited junior college located at the base of Mt. Shasta in Weed, California, with an additional campus in Yreka. COS prides itself on its small class sizes, exceptional instructors, friendly staff, and excellent 3-semester LVN program.

Overall Score: 97.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
12

Santa Barbara Business College - Santa Maria

303 East Plaza Drive, Santa Maria, CA 93454 - (805) 922-8256 - Visit Homepage

Santa Barbara Business (SBB) College is located in the Central Coast wine country in Santa Maria, with additional locations in Bakersfield, Rancho Mirage, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. SBB strives to provide quality training and degree programs to meet a variety of career needs, including that of its excellent LVN program. The school prides itself on emphasizing learning, providing access to state-of-the art equipment, and offering job placement assistance.

Overall Score: 96.85 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
13

Platt College - Alhambra

1000 South Fremont Avenue, Building A9W, Alhambra, CA 91803 - (626) 300-5444 - Visit Homepage

Platt College's Alhambra campus is home to an LVN program with several flexible full-time options for students. Those wanting an Associate's Degree in Vocational Nursing can complete the program in as little as 18 months, while those opting for a diploma can finish in just 14 months. The focus of the LVN program is to provide students with theory, lab skills, interpersonal skills, and clinical experiences so that they can provide safe and efficient care.

Overall Score: 96.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
14

College of Nursing & Technology

18700 Sherman Way #203, Reseda, CA 91335 - (818) 343-1022 - Visit Homepage

The College of Nursing and Technology is located in Reseda, California, and is committed to providing excellent nursing education via highly-qualified instructors, consisting of PhDs, MDs, NPs, and more. The college is dedicated to delivering a dynamic vocational nursing learning experience that fully prepares grads to provide quality medical care.

Overall Score: 96.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
15

Stanbridge University

2041 Business Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92612 - (949) 794-9090 - Visit Homepage

Located in Irvine, California, Stanbridge University is an award-winning institution that offers VN, ADN (RN), RN to BSN and MSN programs. The Vocational Nurse (LVN) program offers students training in a world-class simulation lab, three nursing skills labs, one of the largest virtual reality labs in the US with zSpace VR technology, and the first Synthetic Human Cadaver Lab on the West Coast.

Overall Score: 95.50 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
16

Grossmont Health Occupations Center

9368 Oakbourne Rd, Santee, CA 92071 - (619) 956-4300 - Visit Homepage

Grossmont Health Occupations Center is located in Santee, California, just east of San Diego. The Health Occupations Center seeks to enrich the lives of community members by providing high-quality, affordable learning opportunities, helping students meet personal, academic, and workplace goals as they pursue a vocational nursing education.

Overall Score: 95.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
17

Sri Sai Krish Institute

12362 Beach Blvd. Suite #14, Stanton, CA 90680 - (714) 890-7023 - Visit Homepage

Stanton's Sri Sai Krish Institute offers an LVN program that can be completed in a little over 12 months. SSKI's caring and experienced faculty guide students through hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare them for the NCLEX-PN exam and future healthcare employment.

Overall Score: 95.15 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
18

Southwestern College

900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA 91910 - (619) 421-6700 - Visit Homepage

Southwestern College, located in the southern San Diego County city of Chula Vista, offers an LVN program for aspiring entry-level nurses. The program combines theory and clinical hours, and can be completed in 12-14 months of full-time study or 18-20 months of part-time study.

Overall Score: 95.10 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
19

Bakersfield College

1801 Panorama Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93305 - (661) 395-4011 - Visit Homepage

Bakersfield College is one the nation's oldest continually-operating community colleges. Located in northeast Bakersfield, the college is committed to providing excellent learning opportunities for students so they may achieve informed educational goals. BC's 44-unit LVN program readies students for a number of entry-level employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and more.

Overall Score: 95.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
20

Palo Verde College

1 College Dr, Blythe, CA 92225 - (760) 921-5500 - Visit Homepage

Palo Verde Community College, located in the city of Blythe, offers a 3-semester LVN program that accepts 15 students at a time. With no wait list, students can dive right into their VN studies, to include instruction in human anatomy, medical terminology, and more.

Overall Score: 94.00 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
21

Inland Career Education Center

1200 North E St, San Bernardino, CA 92405 - (909) 388-6000 - Visit Homepage

The Inland Career Education Center is located in San Bernardino, California, providing personal enrichment classes, medical education, GED preparation, and various other vocational programs to prepare students for jobs throughout the community. Their year-round vocational nursing program gives students the skills and confidence needed to provide safe, patient-centered nursing care.

Overall Score: 93.70 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
22

Citrus College

1000 W Foothill Blvd, Glendora, CA 91741 - (626) 963-0323 - Visit Homepage

Citrus College is located in Glendora, California, offering high-quality instruction to support the successful completion of transfer, career education, and basic skills development. Citrus College's LVN certificate program readies students for the rigorous world of vocational nursing, imparting the necessary knowledge and skills for lasting success in the field.

Overall Score: 93.60 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
23

College of the Redwoods - Del Norte Education Center

883 W. Washington Blvd, Crescent City, CA 95531 - (707) 464-7457 - Visit Homepage

College of the Redwoods (CR) is located in Crescent City, California, with additional campuses located in Eureka and Fort Bragg, as well as instructional sites in Hoopa and Garberville. CR strives to provide an outstanding 3-semester, 18-month vocational nursing program to prepare the next generation of entry-level nurses.

Overall Score: 93.60 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
24

Santa Barbara City College

721 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109 - (805) 965-0581 - Visit Homepage

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is located in Santa Barbara, California. SBCC houses a mix of excellent academic programs and exceptional teachers, with small class sizes, over 80 degree programs, and more than 50 certification programs. The school accepts a new cohort of vocational nursing students every 18 months.

Overall Score: 93.50 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
25

Cuesta College

Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403 - (805) 546-3100 - Visit Homepage

Cuesta College is a public community college in San Luis Obispo County, in the Central Coast region of California. The Cuesta College Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program trains students for entry-level vocational nursing positions in a variety of healthcare settings. After finishing the program, students are well prepared to conquer the NCLEX-PN.

Overall Score: 93.50 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
26

Career Development Institute

1830 S Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035 - (310) 559-0225 - Visit Homepage

Career Development Institute (CDI) is a family-owned nursing school located in Los Angeles, California. Students receive a tailored academic experience in small classes, with free tutoring. CDI supports students by helping them reach their professional goals and personal potential.

Overall Score: 91.60 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
27

Beaumont Adult School

1575 Cherry Avenue, Beaumont, CA 92223 - (951) 845-6012 - Visit Homepage

Beaumont Adult School is part of the Beaumont Unified School District (BUSD). Their mission is to provide opportunities for students to complete both basic and secondary instruction, as well as provide additional opportunities to complete career technical training in a variety of programs, including vocational nursing.

Overall Score: 91.60 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
28

Rio Hondo College

3600 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, CA 90601 - (562) 908-3415 - Visit Homepage

Rio Hondo College (RHC) is a comprehensive community college located in Whittier, California. RHC offers strong career programs, a full transfer curriculum, and basic skills courses and services, as well as community service programs for workforce development. Its vocational nursing program is designed to teach students to compassionately care for patients of all ages in a variety of settings.

Overall Score: 91.45 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
29

Tulare Adult School

575 W Maple Ave, Tulare, CA 93274 - (559) 686-0225 - Visit Homepage

Tulare Adult School located in Tulare, California, provides classes to help students achieve educational goals, allowing them to pursue the careers of their choice. Tulare's 18-month vocational nursing program trains students to work as LVNs under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians.

Overall Score: 91.45 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
30

Riverside City College

4800 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92506 - (951) 222-8000 - Visit Homepage

Riverside City College (RCC) is a two-year school offering a broad range of lower-division courses located in Riverside, California. RCC is committed to serving a diverse student population, utilizing their skilled faculty to teach students the leadership skills needed to excel as vocational nurses.

Overall Score: 91.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
31

West Coast Ultrasound Institute - Los Angeles

3580 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010 - (310) 289-5123 - Visit Homepage

The West Coast Ultrasound Institute's School of Nursing is home to a flexible Vocational Nursing program that is designed to be completed in 15 months. The curriculum combines nursing theory, skills, NCLEX test preparation, and off-site clinical experiences for hands-on learning. Courses are delivered by experienced nursing professionals.

Overall Score: 91.20 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
32

Pasadena City College

1570 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106 - (626) 585-7123 - Visit Homepage

Students at Pasadena City College can complete a Licenced Vocational Nursing Certificate in just 2 semesters plus one summer intersession. Applications for the program are accepted every March. Graduates of the LVN program are well prepared to deliver care to patients in a variety of healthcare settings.

Overall Score: 90.70 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
33

Xavier College

1130 N El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95202 - (209) 941-0968 - Visit Homepage

Stockton's Xavier College prepares future LVNs through its 11-month vocational nursing program. Guided by the school's experienced instructors, students attend classroom lectures as well as clinicals at sites including hospitals, long-term care facilties, and more.

Overall Score: 90.05 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
34

Allied Medical & Health Services, Inc.

730 S. Central Ave Ste 208, Glendale, CA 91204 - (818) 637-7871 - Visit Homepage

Allied Medical and Health Services, Inc. (AMHS) is a private nursing school located in Glendale, California. AMHS's mission is to create health training programs designed to foster self-discipline, professionalism, and the ability to meet employer expectations and market demands. Students enrolled in the LVN program complete over 1,500 hours of theory and training.

Overall Score: 89.90 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
35

Hartnell Community College

411 Central Ave, Salinas, CA 93901 - (831) 755-6700 - Visit Homepage

Hartnell Community College is located in Hartnell, California, with additional campuses in Aisal and King City. Hartnell College provides the resources to ensure students have access to a quality vocational nursing education. Its 24-month LVN program utilizes labs, simulations, and lectures to fully prepare students for a rewarding nursing career.

Overall Score: 88.50 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
36

Cerro Coso College

3000 College Heights Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555 - (760) 384-6100 - Visit Homepage

Cerro Coso Community College (CCCC) is one of three colleges in the Kern Community College District located in Ridgecrest, California, with additional locations in Bishop, Mammoth Lakes, Lake Isabella, and Edwards AFB. CCCC strives to foster student success through its intensive 1,662 hour vocational nursing program.

Overall Score: 88.50 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
37

American Career College - Los Angeles

4021 Rosewood Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004 - (323) 668-7555 - Visit Homepage

American Career College's Los Angeles campus offers students an LVN program that is delivered in a blended format of both online and in-person instruction. Throughout the program, students learn essential nursing skills as well as leadership and patient interaction techniques.

Overall Score: 88.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
38

Sacramento City College

3835 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95822 - (916) 558-2111 - Visit Homepage

Sacramento City College's LVN program is 3 semesters in length, with 12 units taken per semester. Upon successful completion of SCC's innovative program, students can earn their vocational nursing certificate and even move on to the school's associate degree program to enter registered nursing.

Overall Score: 88.15 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
39

Career Care Institute - Lancaster

43770 15th St W, Lancaster, CA 93534 - (661) 942-6204 - Visit Homepage

Career Care Institute offers an LVN program out of its Lancaster campus, training students to provide bedside care as vocational nurses. CCI's program takes just 14 months to complete, and students begin hands-on clinicals after the first 6 weeks of instruction.

Overall Score: 87.90 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
40

Clovis Adult Education School

1452 David E Cook Way, Clovis, CA 93611 - (559) 327-2800 - Visit Homepage

Clovis Adult Education's vocational nursing program aims to prepare confident LVNs in 18-20 months of study. The program is offered twice a year, in January and September, and students attend class 3 days a week. Upon completion, graduates are fully prepared for the NCLEX-PN examination.

Overall Score: 87.10 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
41

San Joaquin Valley College - Fresno

295 E Sierra Ave, Fresno, CA 93710 - (559) 448-8282 - Visit Homepage

San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) is committed to training caring and competent LVNs through its renowned program. SJVC students learn nursing fundamentals, lab skills, healthcare ethics, and more to become safe and qualified medical caregivers.

Overall Score: 86.95 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
42

American Career College - Ontario

3130 Sedona Ct, Ontario, CA 91764 - (909) 218-3253 - Visit Homepage

American Career College's Ontario campus offers the same great blended online/campus-based LVN program that they offer at their other Southern California campuses in Los Angeles and Orange County. Grads of the program are equipped for entry-level nursing positions.

Overall Score: 86.80 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
43

Baldy View Regional Occupational Program

8265 Aspen Ave Suite 100, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 - (909) 980-6490 - Visit Homepage

Baldy View Regional Occupational Program (ROP) is located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, and seeks to inspire lifelong learning and making informed career choices, while also empowering students in both new and established fields. Baldy View's LVN program consists of 1,530 clock hours of nursing theory courses and clinicals to train the next generation of entry-level nursing professionals.

Overall Score: 86.50 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
44

Concorde Career College - San Diego

4393 Imperial Ave., Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92113 - (619) 688-0800 - Visit Homepage

Concorde Career College is located in San Diego, California, with multiple campuses located nationwide, offering hands-on healthcare training that's both affordable and convenient. CCC's LVN program can be completed in just 13 months and prepares students to provide patient care under the direction of a physician or RN.

Overall Score: 86.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
45

Lassen Community College

478-200 Hwy 139, Susanville, CA 96130 - (530) 257-6181 - Visit Homepage

Lassen Community College, located in Susanville, has developed a Vocational Nursing program that aims to give students quality knowledge and exceptional skills. Enrolled students complete courses in pharmacology, adult nursing theory, IV and blood withdrawal, and much more.

Overall Score: 86.35 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
46

West Coast Ultrasound Institute - Ontario

3700 E. Inland Empire Blvd. Suite 235, Ontario, CA 91764 - (909) 483-3808 - Visit Homepage

Ontario's West Coast Ultrasound Institute, known simply as WCUI, prepares students for an exciting and rewarding career in vocational nursing through their LVN diploma program. WCUI offers weekday, weekend, and evening courses to fit the schedules of even the busiest students, transitioning them into practice through lectures and clinical experiences.

Overall Score: 85.45 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
47

Carrington College - Sacramento

8909 Folsom Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95826 - (916) 585-7770 - Visit Homepage

Carrington College of California is located in Sacramento, California, with other locations in Citrus Heights, Pleasant Hills, Pomona, San Jose, San Leandro, and Stockton. Carrington College strives to help the student meet his or her goals through its comprehensive LVN program curriculum.

Overall Score: 85.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
48

American Career College - Orange County

1200 N Magnolia Ave, Anaheim, CA 92801 - (714) 763-9066 - Visit Homepage

Like its sister campuses in Los Angeles and Ontario, Orange County's American Career College offers an outstanding LVN program that focuses on student success. At the culmination of the program students have the preparation and skill to pass the NCLEX exam and find gainful employment in the medical field.

Overall Score: 85.20 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
49

Unitek College - Sacramento

1111 Howe Ave #300, Sacramento, CA 95825 - (888) 735-4355 - Visit Homepage

The Sacramento campus of Unitek College offers students in California's capital city a 900+ hour vocational nursing program. With the growing need for qualified LVNs, Unitek's program helps to bridge the gap and get qualified vocational nurses into the workplace.

Overall Score: 84.90 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools
50

High Desert Medical College

701 W Avenue K, Lancaster, CA 93534 - (661) 940-9300 - Visit Homepage

Located in Lancaster, High Desert Medical College offers a 56-week Vocational Nursing Diploma Program. Students can attend on a part-time or full-time basis. The curriculum emphasizes practical hands-on skills, and students receive real-world training through an externship.

Overall Score: 84.40 - Compare Program to Nearby Schools

Continued List of All Programs in California

RankedProgramScore
#51 Fresno Adult School
2500 Stanislaus St, Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 457-6000
83.90
#52 Homestead Schools, Inc.
23800 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 200, Torrance, CA 90505
(310) 791-9975
83.00
#53 Concorde Career College - North Hollywood
12412 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91606
(818) 766-8151
82.80
#54 Unitek College - Concord
1401 Willow Pass Rd., Concord, CA 94520
(888) 919-4220
82.75
#55 Long Beach City College
4901 Carson St, Long Beach, CA 90808
(562) 938-4111
82.65
#56 North-West College - Long Beach
3799 E Burnett St., Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 546-5171
82.50
#57 College of the Desert
43-500 Monterey Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-8041
82.10
#58 Unitek College - South San Francisco
257 Longford Drive #5, South San Francisco, CA 94080
(855) 811-6191
81.65
#59 Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts - Modesto
4712 Stoddard Road, Suite 200, Modesto, CA 95356
(209) 521-1821
80.40
#60 Glendale Career College
240 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203
(818) 243-1131
79.90
#61 National Career College
14355 Roscoe Blvd., Panorama City, CA 91402
(888) 988-2301
79.70
#62 Merced Community College
3600 M St, Merced, CA 95348
(209) 384-6000
79.25
#63 Hacienda La Puente Adult Education
14101 E Nelson Ave, La Puente, CA 91746
(626) 934-2801
79.20
#64 City College of San Francisco
50 Phelan Ave, San Francisco, CA 94112
(415) 239-3000
79.10
#65 Career Care Institute - Moreno Valley
22500 Town Circle, Suite 2205, Moreno Valley, CA 92553
(951) 214-6446
78.70
#66 Carrington College - San Jose
6201 San Ignacio Ave., San Jose, CA 95119
(408) 337-3829
78.50
#67 Career Care Institute - Oxnard
2051 Solar Dr, Oxnard, CA 93036
(661) 942-6204
78.40
#68 Marian College - Los Angeles
3325 Wilshire Boulevard, 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 388-3566
78.20
#69 Pacific College
3160 Red Hill Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 662-4402
78.10
#70 Concorde Career College - San Bernardino
201 East Airport Drive, San Bernardino, CA 92408
(909) 884-8891
78.00
#71 Angeles College
3440 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 310, Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 487-2211
77.90
#72 El Monte – Rosemead Adult School
10807 Ramona Blvd, El Monte, CA 91731
(626) 258-5800
77.80
#73 Unitek College - Bakersfield
333 Palmer Dr. Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA 93309
(888) 912-8512
77.75
#74 North-West College - Riverside
4550 La Sierra Avenue, Riverside, CA 92505
(951) 324-4157
77.70
#75 Concorde Career College - Garden Grove
12951 S Euclid St #101, Garden Grove, CA 92840
(714) 703-1900
77.40
#76 Professional Medical Careers Institute
920 Hampshire Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361
(866) 500-6274
77.40
#77 CNI College
702 Town and Country Rd, Orange, CA 92868
(888) 982-0420
77.40
#78 Unitek College - Hayward
21615 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94541
(855) 808-2732
77.20
#79 Marian College - Van Nuys
5900 N. Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 101, Van Nuys, CA 91411
(818) 782-6163
77.20
#80 Santa Barbara Business College - Rancho Mirage
34275 Monterey Avenue, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
(760) 341-2602
76.55
#81 Imperial Valley College
380 E Aten Rd, Imperial, CA 92251
(760) 352-8320
76.30
#82 Blake Austin College
611 Orange Drive Suite K, Vacaville, CA 95687
(707) 455-0557
76.00
#83 Unitek College - Fremont
4670 Auto Mall Pkwy, Fremont, CA 94538
(888) 775-1514
75.55
#84 Madera Community College Center
30277 Avenue 12, Madera, CA 93638
(559) 675-4866
75.30
#85 North-West College - Pasadena
530 E. Union St., Pasadena, CA 91101
(626) 389-8536
75.10
#86 Charles A. Jones Career & Education Center
5451 Lemon Hill Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95824
(916) 643-7400
75.10
#87 North-West College - West Covina
2121 W. Garvey Ave. North, West Covina, CA 91790
(626) 343-5266
74.60
#88 North-West College - Pomona
134 W. Holt Ave., Pomona, CA 91768
(909) 236-7106
74.00
#89 Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts - Fresno
7335 North Palm Bluffs Avenue, Fresno, CA 93711
(559) 222-1903
73.80
#90 Institute of Technology - Modesto
5601 Stoddard Road, Modesto, CA 95356
(209) 545-3100
73.20
#91 Angeles Institute
11688 South Street, Suite 205, Artesia, CA 90701
(562) 531-4100
72.90
#92 Unitek College - San Jose
6800 Santa Teresa Blvd Ste. 200, San Jose, CA 95119
(888) 775-1514
72.35
#93 Institute of Technology - Clovis
564 W. Herndon Avenue, Clovis, CA 93612
(559) 297-4500
71.80
#94 Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts - Concord
1401 Willow Pass Rd, Concord, CA 94520
(925) 687-9555
71.30
#95 California Career College
7003 Owensmouth Ave, Canoga Park, CA 91303
(818) 710-1310
70.00
#96 University of Antelope Valley
44055 Sierra Hwy, Lancaster, CA 93534
(661) 726-1911
69.55
#97 Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts - San Mateo
2121 South El Camino Real, Building C-200, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 685-6616
69.10
#98 CES College
401 S Glenoaks Blvd #211, Burbank, CA 91502
(818) 563-9822
68.90
#99 California Career Institute - Garden Grove
12141 Brookhurst St, Garden Grove, CA 92841
(714) 539-5959
68.50
#100 California Nurses Educational Institute
5200 Ramon Rd #1, Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 416-5955
68.30
#101 Los Medanos College
2700 E Leland Rd, Pittsburg, CA 94565
(925) 439-2181
68.30
#102 Summit College - Colton
851 South Cooley Drive, Colton, CA 92324
(909) 954-3208
67.55
#103 Chaffey College
5885 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737
(909) 652-6000
67.50
#104 Santa Barbara Business College - Bakersfield
5300 California Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 835-1100
67.15
#105 Premiere Career College
12901 Ramona Blvd, Irwindale, CA 91706
(626) 814-2080
66.25
#106 Healthcare Career College
8527 Alondra Blvd, Suite #174, Paramount, CA 90723
(562) 804-1239
64.50
#107 Downey Adult School
12340 Woodruff Ave, Downey, CA 90241
(562) 940-6200
64.40
#108 Institute of Technology - Redding
1755 Hilltop Drive, Redding, CA 96002
(888) 319-7180
63.50
#109 Visalia Adult School
3110 E Houston Ave, Visalia, CA 93292
(559) 730-7655
63.50
#110 Butte College
3536 Butte Campus Dr, Oroville, CA 95965
(530) 895-2511
63.50
#111 Curam College of Nursing
6520 44th St, Sacramento, CA 95823
(916) 427-4400
58.60
#112 Advanced College
13180 Paramount Blvd, South Gate, CA 90280
(562) 408-6969
57.70
#113 Feather River College
570 Golden Eagle Ave, Quincy, CA 95971
(530) 283-0202
56.30

Programs Not Included In Rankings

Program
Advanced College - Salida
5258 Pirrone Ct,, Salida, CA 95368
(209) 290-0333
Advanced College - Stockton
8338 N.West Ln,, Stockton, CA 95210
(209) 490-4591
Eastern Sierra College Center
101 College Parkway, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
(760) 934-2875
High Desert Medical College Bakersfield
2000 24th St, 2000 24th St, CA 2000 24th St
(661) 579-2901
Quest Nursing Education Center
917 Harrison Street, Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 452-1444
Saint Joseph’s School of Nursing
816 W. Lancaster Blvd., Lancaster, CA 93536
(661) 726-5060
Shasta College
11555 Old Oregon Trail, Redding, CA 96003
(530) 242-7500
Tri-County ROP
970 Klamath Ln, Yuba City, CA 95993
(530) 822-5120
Ukiah Adult School
1056 N Bush St, Ukiah, CA 95482
(707) 463-5217

Are we missing your school's program or need to make changes to the information listed? Please contact us.

Additional CA Nursing Resources

LVN Salary in California

The table below lists career information collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for licensed vocational nurses in California. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.

AreaTotal EmploymentAverage Hourly WageAverage Annual Salary
Los Angeles, Long Beach, Anaheim28,280$32.95$68,530
San Francisco, Oakland, Hayward8,730$38.69$80,470
Riverside, San Bernardino, Ontario8,170$31.19$64,880
San Diego, Carlsbad6,150$32.57$67,750
Sacramento, Roseville, Arden, Arcade4,200$34.27$71,280
San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara3,020$38.75$80,590
Fresno1,800$31.29$65,080
Stockton, Lodi1,270$32.90$68,440
Bakersfield1,230$31.56$65,650
Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Ventura1,220$32.00$66,570
Modesto950$31.87$66,300
Santa Rosa890$36.88$76,710
Vallejo, Fairfield850$36.66$76,240
Visalia, Porterville740$29.42$61,190
Salinas680$33.51$69,710
Santa Maria, Santa Barbara600$32.88$68,390
San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Arroyo Grande480$33.23$69,120
Redding460$29.88$62,150
Chico420$31.12$64,720
Napa310$36.72$76,370
Santa Cruz, Watsonville300$33.92$70,550
Hanford, Corcoran270$32.34$67,260
Merced260$29.95$62,300
El Centro260$30.34$63,110
Yuba City250$31.86$66,260
Madera220$31.56$65,640