Are you a California-based licensed practical/vocational nurse who wishes to become a registered nurse? Well, you’ll be glad to know that there are LPN/LVN to RN programs that can help you reach your career goal.
One is the 30-unit option, which is a certificate/non-degree program. LVNs who take this path will not be given a degree and are not considered graduates. They are eligible to take NCLEX-RN, but only in California. Other bridging programs lead to the completion of an ADN or BSN degree, which renders the student eligible to take the NCLEX-RN in California and other states.
Whatever option you choose, this list of 30+ LPN/LVN to RN programs classified by location should help you decide:
Azusa
Azusa Pacific University
Program: BS in Nursing LVN to BSN
Modality: In-person learning at the High Desert, Inland Empire, and Monrovia campuses
Tuition: $825 per unit for 72 units – $59,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The 72-unit program is designed for LVNs who want to gain a BSN degree and take the NCLEX-RN upon graduation. The curriculum enables students to learn from a cohort-based model and use the newest medical technologies, as well as gain immersive experience in various clinical agencies.
Bakersfield
Bakersfield College
Program: LVN to RN Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Bakersfield campus
Tuition: $4,097 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Bakersfield College’s LVN to RN program features a curriculum that focuses on health assessment, patient care, nursing theory, and pharmacology, to name a few. It is also designed to provide students with the clinical experience they need to succeed as future RNs.
Chula Vista
Southwestern College
Program: Step-Up LVN to ADN Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Chula Vista campus
Tuition: $4,144- $4,432 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Southwestern’s LVN to ADN program provides students with the education and experience they need to become qualified entry-level RNs. The one-year transition program, which starts every Spring, runs for three semesters. Admission is based on a multi-criteria points system.
Eureka
College of the Redwoods
Program: Associate of Science, LVN/Paramedic to RN – Career Mobility & Certificate of Achievement, LVN to RN – 30-Unit Option
Modality: In-person learning at the Eureka campus
In-state tuition: $1,380 plus other fees (Certificate of Achievement Program) to $2,300 plus other fees (ADN Program)
Out-of-state tuition: $10,950 plus other fees (Certificate of Achievement Program) to $18,250 plus other fees (ADN Program)
Program Overview:
College of the Redwoods offers two options for LVNs aspiring to become RNs. The career mobility pathway leads to an ADN after the completion of 50 credit units. The certificate of achievement option, meanwhile, is a non-degree program that requires the completion of 30 credit units.
Glendale
Glendale Community College
Program: LVN-RN Career Ladder
Modality: In-person learning at the Glendale campus
In-state tuition: $7,565 plus other fees
International student tuition: $15,714 plus other fees
Program Overview:
GCC’s career ladder program provides LVNs with an ADN degree after the completion of general education and nursing course requirements. After obtaining the degree, students are deemed eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Prerequisite requirements include a grade of C or better in various courses, an active LVN license, a high school diploma, a GPA of at least 2.5, and attendance in nursing workshops.
Hayward
Cal State East Bay
Program: LVN-BSN Pathway
Modality: In-person learning at the Hayward campus
Tuition: $3,602.50 plus other fees per semester
Program Overview:
Cal State East Bay’s pre-licensure LVN-BSN pathway is open to practical nurses who wish to become RNs. Applicants may get credits for Nursing Interventions and Health Assessment classes based on their education and practical experience.
Irvine
Concordia University Irvine
Program: LVN to RN Certificate
Modality: In-person learning at the Irvine campus
Tuition: $750 per unit for 30 units – $22,500 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Concordia’s 30-unit, non-degree certificate program is designed for practical nurses who want to meet the NCLEX-RN eligibility requirements set forth by the California Board of Nursing. Qualification requirements include the possession of a CA LVN license, full-time employment for at least a year, and a CPR card, to name a few.
Long Beach
Long Beach City College
Program: LVN to RN Career Ladder, AS & LVN to RN Career Ladder (30-unit option)
Modality: In-person learning at the Long Beach campus
In-state tuition: $1,556 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $11,440 plus other fees
Program Overview:
LBCC offers two programs for LVNs who wish to become RNs. First is the career ladder program, which leads to an associates degree. Such can later on be credited towards a BSN or MSN degree. Another track is the 30-unit option, which provides LVNs with the eligibility requirements needed to take the NCLEX-RN in California.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles Southwest College
Program: LVN to RN Bridge Program
Modality: In-person learning at the LA campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 30 units – $1,380 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $388 per unit for 30 units – $11,640 plus other fees
Program Overview:
LASC’s bridge program starts during the second semester of the ADN course and continues through the last three semesters of the program. Students must pass the Challenge Exam and Competency Skills in order to qualify and eventually be eligible for the NCLEX-RN.
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Program: LVN to RN program
Modality: In-person learning at the West LA and Downtown LA campuses
Tuition: $2,004 per unit for 32 units – $64,128 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The 32-unit, non-degree program provides LVNs with the courses necessary to be eligible for the NCLEX-RN. Admission requirements include a current LVN license, CPR certification, Fire & safety card, malpractice insurance, and completed health forms, to name a few.
West Coast University
Program: LVN/LPN to BSN Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County campuses
Tuition: up to $134,772 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The 34-month program features ten-week terms, allowing students to start their education throughout the year. The curriculum is also streamlined, thus enabling students to get credits for their previous studies. LVNs may pursue the program via the accelerated, evening & weekend, or working professional pace.
Menifee
Mt. San Jacinto College
Program: LVN to RN | Thirty Unit Option & LVN to RN Associate in Science Degree
Modality: In-person learning at the Menifee campus
Tuition: $5,000 to $7,000
Program Overview:
The 30-unit option requires the completion of said units to be eligible for the NCLEX. The LVN to RN Associates degree program, meanwhile, mandates students to finish admission requirement courses in order to gain entry to MSJC’s ADN program. Successful applicants must then complete role transition courses in order to be deemed eligible for the fall semester.
Murrieta
United Nursing College
Program: LVN 30 Unit Option
Modality: In-person learning at the Murrieta campus
Tuition: $37,700
Program Overview:
The 30-unit option is a non-degree program for California LVNs who wish to meet the eligibility requirements of the state’s Board of Nursing. As the name suggests, the one-year program requires the completion of 30 units in order for the student to take the NCLEX-RN.
Oroville
Butte College
Program: LVN-RN Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Oroville campus
Tuition: $3,634-$3,680 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Butte College’s LVN-RN program is for practical nurses who wish to obtain an ADN degree and be qualified to take the NCLEX-RN. Vocational nurse training and the completion of course prerequisites are counted towards year one of the two-year ADN program.
Pasadena
Pasadena City College
Program: LVN to RN (Career Ladder) Nursing Option
Modality: In-person learning at the Pasadena campus
Tuition: $3,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
PCC’s three-semester program provides LVNs with the theoretical and clinical skills they need to become eligible for the NCLEX-RN. The curriculum focuses on nursing theory and concepts that promote health among various individuals.
Rocklin
Sierra College
Program: LVN to RN Upward Mobility Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Rocklin campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 30 units – $1,380 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $406 per unit for 30 units – $12,180 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Sierra College’s 1/1.5-year upward mobility program is designed for LVNs, who, if accepted, are guaranteed entry into the second or third semester of the ADN program. Prerequisites include the completion of course evaluations, required courses, and a ‘Test of Essential Academic Skills.’
Sacramento
American River College
Program: LVN-to-RN Career Mobility Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Sacramento campus
Tuition: $2,500 plus other fees
Program Overview:
ARC’s career mobility program requires LVNs to finish general education and nursing courses, alongside laboratory requirements in local clinical departments. A grade of ‘C’ or higher is required for the progression and successful completion of the ADN program.
Carrington College
Program: Nursing Bridge/LVN to ADN
Modality: In-person learning at the Sacramento campus
Tuition: $46,085 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Carrington College offers an LVN to ADN bridge program that takes about 12 months to finish. It provides the coursework and credentials necessary to take the NCLEX-RN and become a full-fledged RN in California (or any other state.)
Sacramento City College
Program: LVN-to-RN Career Mobility program
Modality: In-person learning at the Sacramento campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 30 units – $1,380 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $480 per unit for 30 units – $14,400 plus other fees
Program Overview:
SCC offers two tracks (12-month and 18-month long) for LVNs who wish to become eligible for the NCLEX-RN. The curriculum, which focuses on the competencies of the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses, eventually leads to the completion of an ADN degree.
San Bernardino
San Bernardino Valley College
Program: Advanced Placement LVN to RN Program
Modality: In-person learning at the San Bernardino campus
In-state tuition: $6,000 plus other fees
Program Overview:
SBVC’s advanced placement program offers a 30-unit option and follows the ADN admission process. Students need to complete a challenge exam to determine the semester with which they can begin their studies.
San Diego
National University
Program: LVN to RN 30 Unit Option Certificate (California)
Modality: In-person learning at the San Diego campus or Online
Tuition: $388 per quarter unit for 44.5 quarter units – $17,266 plus other fees
Program Overview:
NU’s 30-unit LVN to RN option is designed to satisfy the requirements for the latter. Open for year-round enrollment, it covers 6 preparation and 7 core nursing courses. All of these are delivered in 4-week increments, allowing LVNs to finish the course sooner and faster.
San Diego State University
Program: LVN-RN 30-Unit Option
Modality: In-person learning at the San Diego campus
Tuition: $302 per unit for 30 units – $9,060 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Designed as a career ladder program for CA LVNs, SDSU’s program provides the credentials needed for a student to become NCLEX-RN-eligible. The 30-unit option includes courses in Microbiology, Pharmacology, and Nursing Management, to name a few.
San Jose
Evergreen Valley College
Program: LVN-RN Bridge & 30-Unit Option
Modality: In-person learning at the San Jose campus
Tuition: $1,366 per nine months plus other fees
Program Overview:
Evergreen Valley’s LVN-RN bridge program runs once a year, from October 1-31. Interested applicants must meet the minimum requirements, which include an LVN license and prerequisite coursework. The college also offers a 30-unit option, which has a selection process similar to the LVN-RN bridge program.
Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts
Program: A.S. in Nursing (LVN to RN) Advanced Placement Program
Modality: In-person learning at the San Jose campus
Tuition: $62,030 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The 8-month, 25-credit LVN to RN advanced placement program is open to vocational nurses who have finished their general education classes. The program can be completed within two semesters and requires the completion of an LVN to RN transition class.
Santa Clara
Mission College
Program: LVN to RN Bridge Program – ADN
Modality: In-person learning at the Santa Clara campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 30 units – $1,380 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $404 per unit for 30 units – $12,120 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The bridge program provides LVNs with the opportunity to earn their ADN degree through a mix of on-campus classes and clinical instruction. Compared to other programs, Mission College doesn’t have a recency requirement for science courses.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica College
Program: LVN to RN Bridge Program – ADN & Non-Graduate 30-Unit Option
Modality: In-person learning at the Santa Monica campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 30 units – $1,380 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $404 per unit for 30 units – $12,120 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The LVN-RN bridge program requires students to complete pre-preparation classes, pre-requisites, graduate requirements, and nursing courses. The non-graduate option, meanwhile, is a two-semester program that fulfills the qualifications needed for the NCLEX-RN.
Ukiah
Mendocino College
Program: LVN-to-RN Certificate of Achievement
Modality: In-person learning at the Ukiah campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 28 units – $1,288 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $332 per unit for 28 units – $9,296 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The 18-month certificate course provides LVNs with the classes and clinical experience they need to be rendered NCLEX-RN-eligible. Students must complete a total of 28 prerequisite and major unit courses, as well as 132 hours (minimum) of individual clinical preceptorship.
Visalia
San Joaquin Valley College
Program: Registered Nursing – LVN to RN Bridge
Modality: In-person learning at the Visalia, Ontario, and Rancho Mirage campuses
Tuition: $38,345 plus other fees
Program Overview:
The LVN-RN advanced placement program is designed to help LVNs become RNs through a practice-focused curriculum. Successful candidates may finish the California Board of Nursing-approved ADN program in as short as 11 months.
Walnut
Mt. San Antonio College
Program: Licensed Vocational Nurse to RN Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Walnut campus
In-state tuition: $2,760 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $20,040 plus other fees
Program Overview:
Mt. SAC’s two-year program is open to practical nurses who want to scale their careers and become RNs. The curriculum, which focuses on general education, science, and nursing courses, leads to the granting of an ADN degree.
Woodland Hills
Los Angeles Pierce College
Program: LVN 30-Unit Option Program
Modality: In-person learning at the Woodland Hills campus
In-state tuition: $46 per unit for 30 units – $1,380 plus other fees
Out-of-state tuition: $388 per unit for 30 units – $11,640 plus other fees
Program Overview:
LAPC’s 30-unit option is created for practical nurses who wish to transition as RNs. The non-degree program offers the necessary courses as prescribed by the California Board of Nursing. Admission is based on space availability; with successful applicants being drawn through a random lottery.