The Best LVN Programs In California

California and Texas are the only two states that use the title LVN (licensed vocational nurse). Everywhere else the role is called LPN (licensed practical nurse). An LVN works under the supervision of a physician or registered nurse and provides bedside care across a range of settings. California LVNs are regulated by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, and graduates of an approved program qualify to sit for the NCLEX-PN.

Several established California LVN programs are listed below. Tuition, schedules, and accreditation status change, so confirm current details directly with each school. (School list last reviewed 2021.)

Carrington College runs a Practical/Vocational Nursing program across several California campuses.

• Campus: Pleasant Hill, Sacramento, San Jose
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Minimum time: One year
• Online: No
• Entry requirement: High school diploma or equivalent

Gurnick Academy combines didactic coursework, lab training, and a required internship, with an emphasis on how anatomical systems and homeostasis relate to patient problems.

• Campus: San Mateo, Concord, Modesto, Fresno
• Accreditation: Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
• Tuition: $29,379.50
• Minimum time: 13 months
• Online: No
• Entry requirement: Prerequisite courses

The College of the Redwoods offers both a certificate of achievement and an associate of science in vocational nursing. Both qualify graduates for the NCLEX-PN.

• Campus: Mendocino, Eureka, Del Norte
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
• Tuition: Roughly $10,122 to $21,882 total; financial aid often available
• Minimum time: 60 units (associate of science) or 46 units (certificate)
• Online: No
• Entry requirement: High school diploma or equivalent

Clovis Adult Education prepares students for the NCLEX-PN and encourages graduates to continue toward an RN at Fresno City College.

• Campus: Clovis
• Accreditation: Board of Vocational Nurse and Psychiatric Technician Examiners
• Tuition: Varies; financial aid may be available
• Minimum time: 13 months
• Online: No
• Entry requirements: Two recommendation letters, prerequisite classes, Level A TABE test, personal interview

Merritt College in Oakland offers several vocational nursing pathways, all leading to eligibility for California licensure.

• Campus: Oakland
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Tuition and time: Vary by pathway
• Online: No
• Entry requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, health clearance, prerequisite courses