Licensed Vocational Nursing programs provide a fast-track to begin your medical career as a nurse. In this role, you might administer medications, assist nurses and physicians with treatment plans, collect medical histories, and record vital signs according to the responsibilities outlined by your employment and scope of practice for Texas State. Many LVNs seek to advance their career and to take a more hands-on role in patient care. The LVN to RN program prepares vocational nurses to take the NCLEX for Registered Nurse to receive the RN designation. The new role of a registered nurse provides access to better opportunities, higher pay, and extra duties.
The Chicago School – College of Nursing and Advanced Health Professions
The LVN transition program at the College of Nursing and Advanced Health Professions program prepares students with the academic requirements to sit for the NCLEX exam. Students will acquire the skills to provide compassionate care to patients in various health care facilities. They will learn how to administer and coordinate holistic patient care, educate patients about different health issues, provide advice and emotional support, perform physical exams and diagnostic tests, supervise nursing teams, discuss therapy with patients, and predict, plan, and implement comprehensive care plans. Students will benefit from rigorous hands-on training sessions in the lab and at clinical sites.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 69
Duration: 12 or 18 months (full-time)
Course titles:
Core courses – Nursing Skills, Foundations for Nursing Practice, Foundations for Nursing Practice Clinical, Nursing Skills II, Mental Health Nursing Clinical, Care of Children and Family Clinical, Maternal/Newborn Nursing & Women’s Health Clinical, Care of Children and Families, Jurisprudence, Maternal/Newborn Nursing and Women’s Health, Mental Health Nursing, Complex Concepts of Adult Health and Clinical
Admission criteria:
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma, official GED, or recognized equivalent
- Submit acceptable scores on a Standardized Test: ACT- 19 or above, SAT – composite score 1350 or score a minimum of 86 on the ADN Admissions Entrance Assessment
- Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade C – Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology for Non-Science Majors, Pharmacology, or Pathophysiology
- Provide two professional letters of reference (non-family members)
- Submit a written essay to be scored by the Vice-President, Nursing Program Development and Chief Nursing Officer or designee
- Provide proof of licensure as a Vocational Nurse or Practical Nurse – must be current and in good standing
- Pass a drug screen
- Complete a background check that meets the Board of Nursing criteria
- Must be a US citizen or permanent resident
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above is required for credit transfer
- Submit a completed application and application fee of $100
- Submit official transcripts
Program Cost
The cost of tuition is $741 per credit hour. The costs for fees, uniforms, textbooks, background check, and equipment are not included.
Website: https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/
Address: 2101 Waterview Pkwy., Suite 100, Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: 469-941-8300
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 53.85%
El Centro College
The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at El Centro College is open to Licensed Vocational Nurses who plan to practice as a registered nurse. The curriculum integrates previous health care knowledge and skills into the role development of the professional nurse. LVNs who are accepted to the Advanced Placement Program enroll in three advanced placement or bridge courses: a three-credit-hour lecture course, a one-credit skills component, and a one-credit hour nursing competencies component. Upon successful completion of the bridge semester courses, students will transition into the third semester of the Associate Degree curriculum to complete the final two semesters. They will receive 13 additional credit hours for select courses from the first two semesters. Admission is determined by a competitive ranking process.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 60
Duration: 2 semesters
Course titles:
General education courses – Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, General Psychology, Lifespan Growth and Development
Core courses – Transition to Professional Nursing Competencies, Concept-Based Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, Professional Nursing Concepts II, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology for Non-Science Majors, Health Care Concepts III, Professional Nursing Concepts III, Clinical Registered Nursing, Health Care Concepts IV, Professional Nursing Concepts IV, Clinical Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
Admission criteria:
- Submit an application for admission to Dallas County Community College
- Attend an information session to receive the nursing application form
- Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5 – Human Anatomy and Physiology, Composition, and Introduction to Psychology
- Take and pass the HESI A2 Test (Reading, Comprehension, Grammar, Math, Vocabulary/General Knowledge, and Anatomy/Physiology) with a minimum score of 80%
- Must have a license to practice as a vocational nurse – must be in good standing
- Experience in an acute care setting is recommended
- Submit documentation of a physical exam, TB test, and CPR certification to Castle Branch
- Undergo a criminal background check and drug test
- Submit the application documents to the Health Occupations Admissions Office before the designated deadline
Program Cost
Tuition and fees cost $948 per year for California residents – based on half-time enrollment. Students must cover additional costs for books, supplies, insurance, physical exam, uniform, CPR certification, and HESI A2 Test.
Website: https://www.dallascollege.edu/pages/default.aspx
Address: 801 Main St., Dallas, TX 75202
Phone: 214-860-2000
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.43%
Navarro College
The LVN to RN Bridge program at Navarro College leads to an Associate Degree Nursing that will enable vocational nurses to practice as a registered nurse upon successful completion of the NCLEX-RN exam. The Bridge entry to the ADN is based on a mobility curriculum. Candidates will complete bridge or transition courses in the summer to bridge the gap between their VN education and the second year of the Associate Degree program. Upon completion of the one y ear of study, they will have the 60 credits required for the AAS ADN-Bridge. Only candidates with a current LVN license and 9+ months of work experience in an acute care setting will be considered. The prerequisite bridge courses must be completed before applying to the program.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 60
Duration: 12 months
Course titles:
Core courses – General Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology I, Microbiology for Non-Science Majors, Lifespan Growth and Development, Introduction to Speech Communication or Public Speaking, Composition I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Concepts of Nursing Practice I For Articulating Students, Clinical – Nursing Practice I for Articulating Students, Pharmacology, Nutrition and Diet Therapy, Clinical – Nursing Care of Clients with Complex Health Care Needs, Integrated Care of the Patient with Complex Health Care Needs, Integrated Client Care Management, Clinical – Integrated Client Managements, Approved Language/Philosophy/ Culture or Creative Arts
Admission criteria:
- Attend an information session and sign the roster
- Submit a completed application to Navarro College online
- Must have a current LVN license to practice
- Must have at least 9 months of experience in an acute setting
- Complete the prerequisite bridge courses before applying to the program – must be completed with a passing grade of C or above
- Request official transcripts from all colleges, universities attend to be sent to NC Registrar
- Submit documentation of immunization – MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Tdap, influenza
- Copy of driver’s license, driver’s insurance, and physical exam
- Submit a satisfactory criminal background check
- Present social security card to the ADN program administrator on Orientation Day
Program Cost
The total estimated bridge program cost is $9,349 for in-district students and $11,221 for out-of-district students. The cost of books, supplies, background check, uniforms, physical exam, immunization, and NCLEX fee must be covered by the student.
Website: https://www.navarrocollege.edu/
Address: 1900 John Arden Drive, Waxahachie, Texas 75165
Phone: 1-800-NAVARRO
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.33%
Brookhaven College
The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Brookhaven College is open to Licensed Vocational Nurses who want to complete the requirements to practice as a registered nurse. The curriculum includes theory in the classroom and hands-on practice in a modern lab. Clinical rotations at local health care facilities will help vocational nurses further their skills as a registered nurse. Graduates will be eligible to write the NCLEX-RN for licensure as a Registered Nurse in Texas.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 60
Duration: 12 months
Course titles:
General education courses – Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, General Psychology, Lifespan Growth and Development
Core courses – Transition to Professional Nursing Competencies, Concept-Based Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, Professional Nursing Concepts II, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology for Non-Science Majors, Health Care Concepts III, Professional Nursing Concepts III, Clinical Registered Nursing, Health Care Concepts IV, Professional Nursing Concepts IV, Clinical Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
Admission criteria:
- Submit an application for admission to Dallas County Community College
- Attend an information session to receive the nursing application form
- Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5 – Human Anatomy and Physiology, Composition, and Introduction to Psychology
- Take and pass the HESI A2 Test (Reading, Comprehension, Grammar, Math, Vocabulary/General Knowledge, and Anatomy/Physiology) with a minimum score of 80%
- Must have a license to practice as a vocational nurse – must be in good standing
- Experience in an acute care setting is recommended
- Submit documentation of a physical exam, TB test, and CPR certification to Castle Branch
- Undergo a criminal background check and drug test
- Submit all required documents to the Health Occupations Admissions Office before the designated deadline
Program Cost
Tuition and fees cost $948 per year for California residents – based on half-time enrollment. Students must cover additional costs for books, supplies, insurance, physical exam, uniform, CPR certification, and HESI A2 Test.
Website: https://www.dallascollege.edu/pages/default.aspx
Address: 3939 Valley View Lane, Farmers Branch, TX 75244
Phone: 972-860-4700
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86.96%
Mountain View College
Licensed vocational nurses may apply to transfer credits into the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Mountain View College and complete the requirements for an ADN degree in just one year. Experienced faculty will emphasize holistic and patient-centered care that is designed to help patients achieve maximum functioning throughout their lives. Students will understand the importance of practicing within the legal and ethical guidelines of the professional and creating an environment that supports individuality, cultural diversity, mutual respect, and dignity. Graduates will receive an Associate Degree of Applied Science (AAS) degree and will be recommended to the Texas Board of Nursing for eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 60
Duration: 12 months
Course titles:
General education courses – Anatomy and Physiology I, Composition I, General Psychology, Lifespan Growth and Development
Core courses – Transition to Professional Nursing Competencies, Concept-Based Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, Professional Nursing Concepts II, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology for Non-Science Majors, Health Care Concepts III, Professional Nursing Concepts III, Clinical Registered Nursing, Health Care Concepts IV, Professional Nursing Concepts IV, Clinical Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
Admission criteria:
- Submit an application for admission to Dallas County Community College
- Attend an information session to receive the nursing application form
- Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5 – Human Anatomy and Physiology, Composition, and Introduction to Psychology
- Take and pass the HESI A2 Test (Reading, Comprehension, Grammar, Math, Vocabulary/General Knowledge, and Anatomy/Physiology) with a minimum score of 80%
- Must have a license to practice as a vocational nurse – must be in good standing
- Experience in an acute care setting is recommended
- Submit documentation of a physical exam, TB test, and CPR certification to Castle Branch
- Undergo a criminal background check and drug test
- Documentation of negative TB
- Have a current CPR for Health Care Provider certificate
- Provide proof of medical insurance
Program Cost
Tuition and fees cost $948 per year for California residents – based on half-time enrollment. Students must cover additional costs for books, supplies, insurance, physical exam, uniform, CPR certification, and HESI A2 Test.
Website: https://www.dallascollege.edu/pages/default.aspx
Address: 4849 W. Illinois Ave., Dallas, TX 75211
Phone: 214-860-8680
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
North Central Texas College
North Central Texas College offers an accelerated program for Licensed Vocational Nurses to transition to a Registered Nurse. The curriculum reduces the number of clinical hours but includes the same didactic courses as the generic program. Students on this pathway will use the Leo & Mabel Scott Health Science Center with its Simulation Center for complete most of the clinical learning experiences. Courses will be delivered in 8-week blocks with the clinical experiences provided as an all-inclusive package at the end of the program. New students are admitted in July and will conclude the requirements for the AAS degree in June of the following year. The clinical experiences will be conducted over a period of 5 weeks at the end of the program. LVN transition students may complete fewer than 52 hours to earn the AAS degree.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 60
Duration: 12 months
Course titles:
Prerequisite courses – Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Elementary Statistical Methods, Microbiology, Composition I, Lifespan Growth and Development, LANG/PHIL/CULTURAL or ARTS ELECTIVE
Core courses – Integrated Nursing Skills II, Health Assessment Across the Lifespan, Transition to Professional Nursing, Transition Clinical I, Integrated Care of the Patient with Common Health Care Needs, Transition Clinical II, Integrated Care of the Patient with Complex Health Care Needs, Transition Clinical III, Clinical – Psychiatric Nursing, Integrated Patient Care Management, Clinical Nursing IV
Admission criteria:
- Submit an application for admission to NCTC
- Attend an Associate Degree in Nursing program information session – recommended
- Submit official transcripts from every college attended to the Admission Office
- Submit a Transcript Evaluation form the NCTC Admissions Offiice
- Must have completed the prerequisite and general education courses with a grade C or better
- Apply for admission to the Associate Degree Nursing program and provide copies of transcripts and degree at the time of application
- Take and pass the TEAS Entrance Exam and score well in the four areas – Reading, Math, Writing, and Science
- Must have a current license to practice as a Vocational Nurse
- Complete the Physical Exam form and have it signed by a licensed physician
- Submit proof of major medical insurance coverage or accidence insurance coverage
- Must have malpractice insurance
- Complete a urine drug screen – arranged by the nursing department
- Provide proof of current CPR certification – American Heart Association Basic Life Support
- Must meet the required immunizations
Program Cost
Tuition and fees cost $3,000 per year for in-district residents completing 30 hours per academic year. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://www.nctc.edu/index.html
Address: 1525 West California Street, Gainesville, TX 76240
Phone: (940) 668-7731
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 89.11%
Collin College
The Associate Degree in Nursing program at Collin College includes an accelerated option that is open only to Licensed Vocational Nurses. LVNs seeking to enroll in the program must have a current and valid license to practice as a vocational nurse. Theory and practical training will teach them how to perform the duties of a registered nurse including assessment of patients’ conditions, recording medical histories and symptoms, administering medicines and treatments, operating and monitoring medical equipment, teaching patients and their families how to manage illnesses or injuries, and collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals. communicate with diverse patients, and commit to the values and ethics of the profession.
Program Outline
Semester credits: 60
Duration: 2 semesters
Course titles:
Prerequisite courses – Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology for Non-Science Majors, General Psychology, Composition I
Core courses – Transition to Professional Nursing Competencies, Introduction to Health Care Concepts, Transitional Professional Nursing Concepts, Health Assessment, Life-Span Growth and Development, Health Care Concepts I, Health Care Concepts II, Clinical I – Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Health Care Concepts III, Clinical II – Nursing – Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse, Professional Nursing Review and Licensure Preparation, Health Care Concepts IV, Clinical III –Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
Admission criteria:
- Apply for admission to Collin College
- Apply for admission to Nursing Program
- Submit all transcripts with the application – must have completed prerequisites with a grade C or better – Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, and Microbiology
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above on the prerequisite courses
- Submit immunization records when requested
- Must have liability insurance
- Have and maintain CPR certification throughout the program – Healthcare Provider from the American Heart Association
- Submit a completed physical form -signed by a licensed health care provider
- Complete drug screen on a date specified by the Dean
- Must have a current license to practice as an LVN
Program Cost
The cost of tuition is $57.00 per credit hour for Texas and Collin County residents and $103.00 per credit hour for outside Collin County. Other costs include books, uniforms, liability insurance, immunization, health insurance, drug testing, CPR, and FBI fingerprints and background check.
Website: https://www.collin.edu/
Address: 3452 Spur 399, McKinney, Texas 75069
Phone: 972.548.6790
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.73%
Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.