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Stanbridge University LVN to RN Program (BSN)

Key Takeaways:

Program Overview

Stanbridge University offers a full-time Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program across three campuses: Orange County (Irvine), Los Angeles (Alhambra), and Riverside. It is designed for students, including Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), looking to transition into a registered nursing role through a structured, tech-forward education model. This program is not an LPN-to-RN bridge in the traditional ADN sense, but LVNs can apply and earn their RN license by completing the BSN.

Students are trained using advanced resources such as cadaver labs, virtual reality simulations, and online mentorship tools. The curriculum is rigorous, combining in-person lectures and labs with online components, making it a hybrid experience. Stanbridge’s BSN program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).


Class Format and Scheduling

The program runs year-round and takes approximately 36 to 37 months to complete. Students follow a full-time schedule that blends in-person classes, online learning, and clinical rotations.

  • Online assignments are asynchronous, requiring self-management and time discipline.
  • Lecture and labs are typically scheduled 3–4 days a week with sessions lasting up to 8.5 hours per day.
  • Clinical rotations can be scheduled any day of the week, including weekends, with shifts as early as 5:30 AM. These can last 8.5 to 12.5 hours, depending on the facility and shift assigned.

Learning Environment

The program’s hands-on training includes exposure to high-fidelity manikins, virtual simulations, and real-life clinical rotations. Labs are conducted on campus, while clinical hours are arranged with partner healthcare facilities.

To support academic growth, the university offers:

  • Free tutoring (virtual and in-person)
  • Access to academic and career advising
  • Peer and faculty mentoring

Admissions Process

Admission is competitive and involves multiple steps:

  1. Attend an information session
  2. Complete an online application
  3. Take an entrance exam ($40 fee; retakes allowed after 60 days)
  4. Attend a financial aid meeting
  5. Submit official transcripts and a resume
  6. Participate in an interview with the program director or designee
  7. If accepted, complete the remaining admissions and financial aid processes

Deadlines vary, but cohorts with availability typically start a month or two in advance, so interested applicants should plan accordingly.


NCLEX-RN and Graduate Success

Stanbridge boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for its first BSN graduating class in 2024. While the program is relatively new, this early performance is promising. The university previously offered an ADN program with consistently strong pass rates ranging from 90.7% to 98.72% in earlier years.

Graduates of the BSN program are also offered free enrollment in Stanbridge’s MSN-Education program, provided they enroll immediately after passing the NCLEX-RN.


Prerequisites

Applicants must meet standard undergraduate admissions requirements, and LVNs should be prepared to meet additional academic and professional criteria.

  • Current LVN license
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Completion of entrance exam with a passing score
  • Official transcripts
  • Physical health clearance and immunizations
  • Background check and drug screening
  • CPR certification (American Heart Association BLS)
  • Fire and safety card
  • Malpractice insurance

LVNs may also be asked to demonstrate clinical competence or complete challenge exams, depending on academic history and experience.


Financial Aid and Tuition

Stanbridge supports students through a variety of financial aid options, including:

  • Federal Pell Grants
  • Federal Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
  • Federal PLUS Loans for parents
  • Cal Grants (state-level aid)
  • Private education loans through vetted lenders via FASTChoice

Each campus has a separate FAFSA code, and students are encouraged to apply early to maximize eligibility.

Additionally, Stanbridge provides a Student Assistance Program that includes free counseling, academic support, and personal well-being resources, such as help with anxiety, stress, or family challenges.


Career Support

Stanbridge’s Career Services team works closely with students from day one. Services include:

  • One-on-one career coaching
  • Resume and portfolio development
  • Mock interviews
  • LinkedIn optimization
  • Job search assistance
  • Digital portfolio creation

Graduates maintain access to alumni services and networking opportunities, including events with healthcare partners in Southern California.


Locations

The program is available at three campuses:

  • Orange County (Irvine) – Accessible to residents of Anaheim, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, and surrounding areas
  • Los Angeles (Alhambra) – Serves Pasadena, West Covina, Long Beach, and the San Gabriel Valley
  • Riverside – Reaches students in Moreno Valley, Corona, Ontario, and the greater Inland Empire

Each campus offers identical curriculum and student services tailored to its region.


Student Life and Support

Beyond academics, Stanbridge emphasizes leadership, service, and personal growth:

  • Student Organizations – Engage with peer groups focused on leadership, nursing advocacy, or community outreach
  • Community Service Projects – Participate in initiatives that enhance your resume and help you build professional connections
  • Leadership Summit – A biannual conference that helps students develop the soft skills needed for career advancement

The campus culture is built around holistic student success, and support services begin with a three-day orientation designed to prepare students mentally, emotionally, and academically.


Why Choose This School?

CategoryDetails
CostVaries by campus and financial aid package; contact Financial Aid Office for exact figures.
DurationApproximately 36–37 months (full-time program).
Class Schedules3–4 days per week; theory and clinicals held between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
Online Classes?Yes, includes blended learning with both on-ground and online components.
RequirementsLVN license, entrance exams, transcripts, resume, interview, CPR, background check.
Addresses– 2215 W Mission Rd, Alhambra, CA 91803 (Los Angeles)
– 2041 Business Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92612 (Orange County)
– 1325 Spruce St, Riverside, CA 92507 (Riverside)
Phone– Los Angeles: 866-742-1130
– Orange County: 888-789-6208
– Riverside: 866-931-1078
EmailContact via form on website or through campus-specific numbers
Websitehttps://www.stanbridge.edu/program/bsn

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