LPN to RN Programs Anaheim, CA

Since a licensed practical nursing program requires just one year of study, it provides a means of quick entry to the nursing workforce to build some experience in the field. If you’re considering a career as a registered nurse, your practical nursing license and experience may help you to qualify for credit in an associate degree in nursing program. Some bridge LPN-to-RN programs grant practical nurses sufficient credit to commence their education at the second year (third semester) of a registered nursing degree. As a registered nurse, you will benefit from a higher salary and greater flexibility. Registered nurses are reported to have earned a median annual salary of $77,600 in 2021 while licensed practical nurses earned $48,078 in that same period according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Registered nurses also have the opportunity to work in a wider range of settings than licensed practical nurses who may be confined to long-term care.

Santa Ana College

Licensed vocational nurses may be admitted at the beginning of the second year of the Associate Degree in Nursing program at Santa Ana College. LVNs who are currently licensed in California will be granted 19.5 units of LVN courses after they complete the Role Transition course with a passing grade. The coursework will include theoretical and practical modules to prepare the student for practice as a professional nurse and for transfer to a four-year institution for the completion of the baccalaureate degree.  Graduates will be prepared to sit for the NCLEX for Registered Nurses. They will function knowledgeably, safely, and effectively in nursing practice, practice accountability and responsibility, grow in professional development, and function as a patient advocate.

Program Outline
Units: 47.5
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional

Course titles:
General Education Courses – Human Anatomy, Microbiology, Computer Application, Human Physiology, College Algebra, Oral Communication, Introduction to Psychology, Written Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Developmental Psychology

Core Courses – Role Transition, Mental Health and Acute Concepts, Mental Health Acute Concepts Lab, Complex Concepts, Complex Concepts and Preceptorship Lab

Admission criteria:

• Must apply to Santa Ana College and obtain a Student Identification Number
• Submit all official college transcripts to Santa Ana College Admissions Office
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of admission
• Complete the nursing program prerequisites or equivalents from an accredited institution – Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Freshman Composition. Science prerequisites must have been completed within the last 7 years with a grade C or higher and a combined GPA or 2.5 or higher. Freshman composition must be completed with a grade C or higher
• Take and pass the TEAS V or ATI TEAS with a score of 62% or higher on the first attempt. Attach unofficial results
• Must be admitted to the Santa Ana College RN program and be placed in the third semester – dependent upon space availability
• Must be licensed as a Vocational Nurse in California and maintain current license throughout the program – copy of license required
• Provide proof of any relevant work experience
• Provide evidence of a physical examination by a MD, Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner before entry. The report must indicate proof of immunizations, titers, and ability to perform the academic and clinical requirements of a registered nurse
• Submit documentation of any required health examinations, pathology test, and/or immunizations
• Submit to a background check at the applicant’s expense
• Obtain a cleared drug test after acceptance to the program
• Must have a current CPR card for BLS Provider from the American Heart Association
• Must maintain malpractice insurance throughout the program

Program Cost:
The total estimated program cost of $3,107 includes tuition, annual physical exam, uniforms, equipment, books, background check, drug testing, and NCLEX application.

Website: https://sac.edu/Pages/default.aspx
Address: 1530 W. 17th Street Santa Ana, CA 92706-3398
Phone: (714) 564-6000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.80%

American Career College

Licensed vocational nurses may apply for admission to the LVN to Non-Degree Nurse option to prepare for practice as a registered nurse in California. The program requires the completion of 45 quarter units. Graduates will not receive a degree or certificate and will not be considered a graduate of the ADN program. They will receive a transcript documenting the required courses completed for RN licensure. The course may not be recognized for RN licensure outside of California. LVNs must submit their LVN transcripts for review to determine if they meet the Advanced Placement Criteria. Some of the courses will be delivered online. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurses.

Program Outline
Quarter Credits: 45
Duration: 4 10-week quarters (20 months)
Method of instruction: Hybrid

Course Titles
Prerequisite courses – Introduction to Human Anatomy, Introduction to Physiology, General Microbiology, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Written Communications

Core Courses – Professional Communication and Role Transition Seminar, Maternal Child Nursing, Maternal Child Nursing Lab, Intermediate Medical/Surgical Nursing, Intermediate Medical/Surgical Nursing Lab/Clinical, Behavioral Health and Geriatric Nursing, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing Lab/Clinical, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing Leadership, Cultural Pluralism, Professional Communication and Role Transition Advanced Seminar

Admission criteria:

• Must meet with the Director of Nursing for objective counseling for the 45-unit option
• Submit official LVN transcripts for review
• Apply for admission to ACC
• Submit an application for the LVN to Non-Degree Nurse program
• Must have a current unencumbered LVN license in the State of California
• Must have successfully completed the required coursework with a minimum grade of C
• Must have current IV certification
• Obtain a background clearance at the time of enrollment
• Complete health screening examinations – must indicate the ability to meet the physical and mental requirements needed to perform the duties of a nurse
• Submit records of immunizations – MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, negative TB test
• Complete a satisfactory drug screen
• Must have active medical insurance

Program Cost
The program cost of $45,135 includes covers tuition for 45 units of nursing courses.

Website: https://americancareercollege.edu/
Address: 4021 Rosewood Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90004
Phone: (323) 668-7555
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.71%

Pacific College

The LVN to ADN Pathway at Pacific College is designed for California Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) with at least one-year of LVN work experience who want to pursue an Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN) and Registered Nurse licensure. This pathway awards transfer credit so LVNs will complete the requirements for an associate degree in nursing in 2 to 3 semesters. Candidates must challenge nursing courses for advanced placement and fulfill all the program admission requirements. Students will learn how health impacts patients and how patient care impacts the healthcare delivery system. They will understand their role as registered nurses in meeting the health care needs of patients and functioning as advocates. Graduates will be eligible to apply to sit for the NCLEX for Registered Nurses.

Program Outline
Units: 45
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Traditional

Course titles:
Prerequisite Courses – General Human Anatomy with Lab, Human Physiology with Lab, Medical Microbiology with Lab, Human Communication, College Writing, Intermediate Algebra, Critical Reasoning, General Psychology, Growth and Development, Introduction to Sociology

Core Courses – Transition to Professional Nursing, Intermediate Medical Surgical Nursing, Intermediate Medical Surgical Nursing Clinical, Intermediate Medical Surgical Nursing Lab, Child and Family Nursing, Child and Family Nursing Clinical, Child and Family Nursing Lab, Maternal Child Nursing, Maternal Child Nursing Clinical, Maternal Child Nursing Lab, Mental Health and Gero-Psychiatric Nursing, Mental Health and Gero-Psychiatric Nursing Clinical, Mental Health and Gero-Psychiatric Nursing Lab, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing Clinical, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing Lab, Transition to Professional Practice

Admission criteria:

• Must be currently licensed as a vocational nursing in California
• Must have completed an accredited vocational nursing program
• Must have at least one year of LVN work experience
• Must meet with the program director before applying for admission to the program
• Must be admitted to Pacific College
• Complete the nursing program prerequisites.  Science prerequisites must have been completed within the last 5 years with a grade B or higher
• Provide unofficial transcripts from accredited US colleges/universities attended
• Submit the application for admission with all accompanying documents
• Submit a current professional resume
• Must be in good physical health – report from a MD, Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner required
• Must complete a satisfactory background check
• Complete a satisfactory drug screen
• Must have a current CPR card for BLS Provider from the American Heart Association
• Must maintain malpractice insurance throughout the program
• Provide proof of immunizations, titers, and ability to perform the academic and clinical requirements of a registered nurse – MMR, Varicella, Tdap, Hepatitis B, TB Skin Test, COVID-19 (full immunity), annual physical, annual seasonal flu shot

Program Cost:
The estimated total cost for tuition is $36,000 per year for full-time students. Financial aid is available for eligible students.

Website: https://www.pacific-college.edu/
Address: 3160 Red Hill Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: 714-662-4402
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 73.44%

Cypress College

The Registered Nursing Program at Cypress College includes a career mobility option for licensed practical nurses to complete the requirements for an associate of science in nursing degree in just 12 months. Students accepted into this pathway will commence courses at the third semester (based on evaluation of credits) and take classes with both theory and clinical experience in medical surgical, geriatric, maternal-child, mental health, and child family nursing. Admission to LVNs is based on space availability. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX for licensure as a registered nurse.

Program Outline
Units: 42
Duration: 2 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional

Course titles:
Prerequisite Courses – General Human Anatomy with Lab, General Human Physiology with Lab, Medical Microbiology with Lab, College Writing

Core Courses – Medical Surgical Nursing II, Mental Health Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, Pharmacology in Nursing I, Medical Surgical Nursing II, Mental Health Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, Pharmacology in Nursing IV, Child and Family Nursing, Medical Surgical Nursing III

Admission criteria:

• Must be admitted to Cypress College and obtain a student ID number
• Must complete the Career Mobility Interest Link on the Health Science Application page
• Must have a high school diploma or GED
• Must be in good physical and mental health as determined by a medical exam report submitted upon admission to the program
• Applicants with a history of substance abuse, physical impairment, or mental or emotional impairment will not be admitted to the program
• Must have a total college GPA of 2.0 with a grade C or better
• Complete the prerequisite ENGL 100 C with a grade C or better
• Complete science prerequisites with a grade C or better – General Human Anatomy, General Human Physiology, Medical Microbiology, and Chemistry for Health Science Majors
• Must obtain a score of 62 or higher on the TEAS – within the last two years
• Submit official transcripts – except those from Cypress and Fullerton College
• Must submit verification of completion of a vocational nursing program and have a current LVN license in California
• Must have at least 12 months work experience at the time of application
• Attend an interview with the program director or designee
• Submit to a background check and drug screen
• Must have a current CPR card for BLS Provider from the American Heart Association
• Must complete the Career Mobility Proficiency Exams I and II with a passing grade
• Must complete the Career Mobility Skills Validation Performance Exam with a passing grade

Program Cost:
Tuition costs $1,422 per year. Books and supplies cost an additional $1,728 per year. Other expenses for background check, books, fees, insurance, supplies, and NCLEX fee must be covered by the student.

Website: https://www.cypresscollege.edu/
Address: 9200 Valley View Street Cypress, CA 90630
Phone: (714) 484-7000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 78.43%

Los Angeles Southwest College

Los Angeles Southwest College does not provide a career ladder program for licensed vocational nurses; however, LVNs who holds a current California Vocational Nursing license may receive selected credits through examination. LVNs candidates may receive up to 15 credits by exam and qualify for entry into the second semester of the program. Students wishing to take any nursing courses must be officially admitted to the generic Nursing program and complete at least 12 units within the Los Angeles Community College District. Application for Credit by Exam must be made in writing and exams taken in sequential order. The applicant must pass the challenge exam with a score of 75% or higher before the clinical portion can be challenged. The clinical portion must be passed as “Satisfactory.” Graduates will be awarded the AS degree and be eligible to take the NCLEX for licensure as a registered nurse.

Program Outline
Units: 33
Duration: 3 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional

Course Titles
Prerequisite courses – College Reading & Composition, Public Speaking, General Psychology, Life-Span Psychology, Intro to Sociology, Intermediate Algebra, Fundamentals of Chemistry, Intro to Human Anatomy, Intro to Human Physiology, Intro to Microbiology

Core Courses – Fundamentals of Nursing A, Fundamentals of Nursing B, Communication in Nursing, Nursing Process, Medical-Surgical Nursing A, Psychiatric Nursing, Directed Studies, Maternal and Child Health Nursing, Directed Studies, Medical Surgical Nursing B, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing, Senior Seminar, Directed Studies

General Education Courses – Humanities, American Institution, Kinesiology, Math 125

Admission criteria:

• A U.S. high school diploma or equivalent
• An overall GPA of 2.5 (no less than a grade C) for prerequisite courses – Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Microbiology
• Be free from communicable diseases, infection, psychosocial disorders
• Must have a current license to practice as a vocational nurse in California
• Must submit official transcripts from the LVN program
• Must take and pass the theory and clinical portions of the challenge exams
• Complete a physical exam prior to admission
• Demonstrate, by titers, immunity to MMR, varicella, hepatitis B
• Have current Health Care Provider CPR certificate
• Have student liability insurance prior to participation in the clinical component of the course
• Have reliable transportation to the clinical sites
• Take the ATI TEAS test to demonstrate math computation proficiency. The Benchmark score for the college is 62%
• Complete criminal background check and drug testing
• Must purchase a health requirement tracker from CastleBranch and a document tracking service to submit the health requirements electronically

Program Cost
Tuition costs $1,518 for California residents. Additional costs for fees, books, supplies, malpractice insurance, BLS for Healthcare Provider, and health requirements are not included.

Website: https://www.lasc.edu/
Address: 1600 West Imperial Highway, Los Angeles, California 90047
Phone: (323) 241-5461
Email: lascnursing@lasc.edu
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 79.07%

Saddleback College

The LVN to RN program at Saddleback College prepares licensed vocational nurses for licensure and employment as a registered nurse. LVNs who hold a current license will receive transfer credit and complete the requirements for the associate degree in nursing in just 2 to 3 semesters. The registered nursing curriculum offers evidence-based theory ad clinical nursing courses that build on the foundation of biological, psychological, and social sciences as well as communication and critical thinking skills to prepare students to function competently as registered nurses. It has a strong medical surgical foundation and the application of nursing process across the lifespan in a variety of health care settings.  Graduates of the program are eligible to take the licensure exam for Registered Nurses.

Program Outline
Units: 69
Duration: 4 semesters
Method of instruction: Traditional

Course titles:
Prerequisite Courses – Human Anatomy, General Microbiology, Human Physiology, English 1A

Recommended courses – Medical Terminology, Cardiac Dysrhythmias, Basic Life Support – CPR for Healthcare Providers, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Management of Aggressive Behavior in Healthcare Settings, Success Strategies in Nursing, Beginning Nursing Concepts, Nursing Care Plans & Maps, Healthcare Organization Practices

Core Courses – Successful Transition to Professional Nursing, Successful Transition to Professional Nursing Lab,  Mental Health Nursing, Introduction to Psychology, Lifecycle II: Growth & Development, Medical Surgical Nursing, Nursing Care of Children & Families, Women’s Health Nursing, Communication Fundamentals or Interpersonal Communication, Advanced Nursing

Admission criteria:

• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of admission
• Must have a social security card to enable a background check to be completed and to be eligible for NCLEX licensure after program completion
• Complete the BIO prerequisites with a 2.8 GPA or higher – Bio 11- Human Anatomy, Bio 12- Human Physiology, Bio 15- Microbiology
• Complete the prerequisite English 1A – Principles of Composition with a grade C or better
• Take and pass the ATI TEAS exam version 7 with a score of 62% or higher. It is recommended to take the exam after completing the nursing prerequisites
• Apply for admission to Saddleback College
• Submit official transcripts to the Admissions & Records office
• Provide documentation of vocational nursing license – must be maintained throughout the program
• Must complete the prerequisites and be selected for admission into the program: BIOL 239, BIOL 249, BIOL 229, and ENGL 101. Applicants are also required to pass the TEAS test. Nursing Application Dates: Feb 1 – Feb 15 for Fall admission & Sept 1 – Sept 15th for Spring admission.
• Must attend an LVN to RN guidance session
• Must complete matriculation testing
• Provide evidence of a physical examination by a MD, Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner before entry.
• Provide proof of immunizations, titers, and ability to perform the academic and clinical requirements of a registered nurse – MMR, Varicella, Tdap, Hepatitis B, TB Skin Test, COVID-19 (full immunity), annual physical, annual seasonal flu shot
• Submit to a background check and drug screen
• Must have a current CPR card for BLS Provider from the American Heart Association
• Must maintain malpractice insurance throughout the program
• Submit a completed application to the Director of Nursing
• Provide proof of completion of a minimum of one year of direct patient care

Program Cost:
The total estimated program cost of $1,871 includes tuition for two semesters, computerized testing, material fees, immunizations, background check, uniform, equipment, books, health fee, licensing fees, and NCLEX fee.

Website: https://www.saddleback.edu/
Address: 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, California 92692
Phone: (949) 582-4500
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.74%