If you’re interested in starting a career in healthcare, pursuing a vocational nursing program can be an excellent first step. As a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), you’ll be responsible for providing basic medical care to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician.
With a growing demand for healthcare professionals in the United States, vocational nursing can be a stable and fulfilling career path. By completing a LVN program, you’ll gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. With numerous LVN programs available in Los Angeles, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and interests.
Featured LVN Programs
Discover our carefully curated collection of top LVN programs in the Los Angeles area. We consistently update our list to provide access to the most reliable choices within the region. To learn more about each school’s LVN program, select your school of interest below.
Marian College
The Marian College Vocational Nursing Program is a postsecondary, on-campus only program that offers a diploma upon completion. The program is 1,534 clock hours long and can be completed in 14-18 months. The program does not offer distance learning or online courses, and a minimum grade of C is required to successfully complete the program.
The cost of tuition and fees is $24,719, and books and supplies cost $5,706. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN) and if successful, qualify to obtain licensure from the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians to practice in the State of California. The NCLEX-PN® pass rates for the program are 88% and 80% for the Los Angeles and Van Nuys campuses for 2019, and 84% and 81% for the Los Angeles and Van Nuys campuses for 2020.
Admission Requirements
- Proficient in English language
- Demonstrate effective communication skills
- Utilize intellectual abilities and exercise good judgment
- Display integrity, respect, and motivation
- Be 17 years or older
- Possess a US high school diploma or its equivalent, or have passed GED®, HiSET, or TASC
- Pass the Entrance Examination and Personal Interview requirement
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 80% |
| Cost | $24,719 |
| Program Duration | 14-18 months |
| Class Schedule | Variable |
| Website | https://www.mariancollege.edu/vocational-nursing.php |
| Location | 3325 Wilshire Boulevard, 10th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90010 |
| Phone | 213-388-3566 |
Career Development Institute
The Career Development Institute offers a Licensed Vocational Nursing Program that prepares students for a rewarding career in the medical industry. The program provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills through classroom instruction, simulation skills lab training, and hands-on clinical experience. The curriculum includes a thorough review of the NCLEX-PN exam, which has contributed to the program’s nearly 100% pass rate for the last five years.
Clinical schedules are determined by affiliated facilities and are subject to change due to COVID-19 guidelines. The program tuition includes textbooks, two nurse uniforms, a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, tutoring services, and job placement assistance. The Job Developer assists graduates in finding employment and provides services such as resume preparation, job scouting, interview preparation, workplace etiquette, and time management skills.
Graduates have been employed by notable facilities such as Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Torrance Memorial Hospital, and Brotman Memorial Hospital.
Admission Requirements
- Be at least 17 years old.
- Provide a valid high school diploma or transcript or GED.
- Pass entrance exam(s) administered in English language only.
- Interview successfully with a School Director and meet with the Financial Aid Officer.
- Submit supporting documentation for all application requirements.
- Evaluate any foreign schooling at the student’s expense and include a summary from the evaluating agency.
- Be physically and mentally fit to complete the program and training-related career obligations after graduation.
- Submit the registration fee.
Additional Admissions Requirements for Vocational Nursing Program:
- Must obtain a background clearance.
- Must complete health screening examinations, pathology tests (if applicable), and/or immunizations before clinical assignments.
- May require drug testing in certain clinical placement situations.
- Admitted as “Alternate Students” once enrollment capacity has been met.
- Must have specific immunizations or titers two weeks before clinical rotation begins.
- Must pass a physical exam before beginning clinical rotation.
- Must purchase Professional Liability Insurance.
- Must maintain CPR certification throughout the entire program.
- Must inform the Director of Nursing or Director of Education if pregnant and provide a complete medical clearance from their treating physicians prior to attending skills lab and clinical rotations.
- Must complete and pass a criminal background check before clinical training in the program.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 92% |
| Cost | $29,998 |
| Program Duration | 13 months part time, 17 months full time |
| Total Clock Hours | 1532 |
| Class Schedule | Variable |
| Website | https://cdi.edu/licensed-vocational-nursing/ |
| Location | 1830 South Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035 |
| Phone | 310-559-0225 |
Westchester College
The Westchester College of Nursing and Allied Health offers a comprehensive Vocational Nursing program designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality healthcare in various settings. The program comprises 10 courses, including clinical and skills labs, covering topics such as nursing fundamentals, mental health, medical-surgical care, maternity, and pediatrics. The program lasts for 75 weeks, with theory classes held on Monday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm and clinical classes from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. The program’s objective is to provide students with a solid foundation for a career in allied health professions and promote lifelong learning.
The program aims to create a conducive learning environment by using technology to facilitate an interactive and collaborative educational experience. The college’s professional faculty encourages critical thinking and offers a high-quality and flexible learning experience, relevant to current and future nursing and allied health professional areas. Graduates of the program receive placement assistance that includes resume preparation, job interview skills, and identifying job openings. The program also offers ongoing support to graduates in maintaining employment and advancing their careers.
Overall, the Westchester College of Nursing and Allied Health Vocational Nursing program provides a comprehensive education that prepares students for a career in various healthcare settings. The program’s use of technology to facilitate a synchronous distance education delivery system is an added advantage, especially in the current digital era. The support provided to graduates in securing employment and advancing their careers is also commendable.
Admission Requirements
- Possession of a High School Diploma/GED or official transcript.
- Applicants must undergo a Criminal Background Check at the time of enrollment.
- Students must have a health screening examination, pathology tests, and/or immunizations prior to clinical assignment.
- Prospective students are expected to lift up-to 30 lbs. individually, communicate effectively in English, demonstrate the coordinated range of motion of all four extremities, stand, bend, walk and sit for 6-12 hours in a clinical setting performing physical activities.
- Drug testing may be required in certain clinical placement situations.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | Unavailable |
| Cost | $32,000 |
| Program Duration | 75 weeks |
| Class Schedule | Monday – Thursday, 8:00 am-2:30 pm or 7:00 am-3:30 pm |
| Website | https://www.westchestercollege.edu/vocational-nursing/ |
| Location | 8939 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 302, Los Angeles, CA 90045 |
| Phone | 888-657-2677 | 310-981-9644 |
| [email protected] |
Healthcare Career College
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) at a program located on the southern side of Los Angeles, Healthcare Career College’s LVN program might be a great fit for you. The program is designed to provide hands-on training, practical experience, and industry know-how necessary to launch a successful career in nursing.
The program covers a range of topics, including nursing assessment, intervention, documentation, leadership, and professionalism, as well as anatomy & physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, rehabilitation nursing, ethics, leadership/supervision, mental health, pediatric nursing, and maternity nursing. It also provides free NCLEX certification preparation and testing, tutoring and student support services, and supplementary Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) classes.
The program is accredited by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) and offers up-to-date curriculum, experienced staff, flexible scheduling, affordable tuition and fees, job placement assistance, and comprehensive student support services.
To get a true feel for what it’s like to be a part of the Healthcare Career College community, you can book an information session. The program is ideal for existing C.N.A.’s, LVN’s, or patient care technicians, and medical assistants looking for a foundation for future nursing programs.
The full-time LVN program takes at least 12 to 14 months, while the part-time program requires 18 to 20 months of training. Graduates of LVN programs have practical skills that employers are looking for, and the program has a 100% pass rate. Overall, the Healthcare Career College LVN program is a great choice for anyone looking to start a rewarding career in nursing.
Admission Requirements
- Be 18 years old or above.
- Have a high school diploma or GED (foreign transcripts should be evaluated).
- Attend a personal interview with the Admissions Manager and Director of Nursing and show commitment to education.
- Demonstrate the ability to adjust personal and work schedules for classes, homework, study time, and clinical experiences.
- Have the physical, psychological, and cognitive ability to comply with nursing practice standards.
- Pass the Wonderlic SLE test with a minimum of 20 and WBST test with a minimum of 265 in math and reading.
- Complete at least 6 college credits or equivalent.
- Complete a prerequisite course offered by Healthcare Career College, which includes study skills, reading comprehension, time management, and arithmetic.
- Submit a personal statement of 300-500 words.
- Pay registration fees before the start date.
- Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a medical exemption.
- Complete all financial aid and enrollment paperwork.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 73% |
| Cost | $34,995 (Tuition: $34,066, Other Fees: $929) |
| Program Duration | 14 months |
| Clock Hours | 1840 |
| Semester Credit Hours | 73 |
| Weeks | 60 |
| Class Schedule | Variable |
| Website | https://healthcarecareercollege.edu/programs/vocational-nurse/ |
| Location | 8527 Alondra Blvd Suite #128, Paramount, CA 90723 |
| Phone | 562-804-1239 |
Angeles College
The Licensed Vocational Nursing program at Angeles College requires 52 full-time or 72 part-time weeks of attendance days, during which you will learn essential skills such as proper patient care, medical terminology, medication administration, body systems, patient care assessment, and nursing procedures. Successful completion of the program qualifies you to take the NCLEX-PN, which leads directly to licensure.
Angeles College boasts an impressive NCLEX passing rate, staying at 75% or better for each quarter of 2021. In the most recent report, for the third quarter of 2022, the college’s NCLEX pass rate was 100%, which is significantly higher than California’s average pass rate of 71%. The program’s objective is to prepare you to meet basic standards in quality vocational nursing, to deliver quality nursing care in both long-term and acute care environments, to help you pass the NCLEX-PN, and to help you become gainfully employed in the nursing field.
This program requires a high school diploma or GED as a prerequisite and offers full-time and part-time options. Full-time students attend two days of theory and three days of skills lab or clinical, while part-time schedules are yet to be determined. The program also offers synchronous blended courses, which allow you to access course materials online via the CANVAS LMS 24/7 while still attending regularly scheduled classroom/theory, skills lab, and clinical instructions via live streaming. In-house assessments will also be given online with a time limit and proctored in real-time to maintain the integrity of the assessment.
Overall, the Licensed Vocational Nursing program at Angeles College seems to offer a comprehensive curriculum and practical experience to prepare you for a successful career in nursing. The impressive NCLEX passing rate is a positive indication of the program’s effectiveness, and the flexible online options offer convenience and accessibility. However, it is crucial to carefully consider the time commitment and prerequisites before enrolling in this program.
Admission Requirements
- Applicant must be at least 17 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Criminal background check and negative drug screening
- Interview with program director or assistant director
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 88% |
| Cost | $31,562 (Tuition: $28,512, Other fees: $3,050) |
| Program Duration | 52 weeks full time or 72 weeks weekend classes: 1800 clock hours |
| Class Schedule | Day & Weekend Classes |
| Website | https://www.angelescollege.edu/programs/vocational-nursing/ |
| Location | 3440 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 310, Los Angeles, CA 90010 |
| Phone | (213) 487-2211 |
| [email protected] |
American Career College
The American Career College Licensed Vocational Nursing Program is designed to prepare students for an entry-level licensed vocational nurse position in a variety of healthcare settings. Upon completion, students will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become a licensed practical or vocational nurse.
The Vocational Nursing Program consists of 1630 total hours, including 675 theory hours, 152 lab hours, and 803 clinical hours. It is a residential program that can take either 55 weeks during the day or 86 weeks in the evenings/weekends, depending on holiday schedules.
The program is divided into terms that last approximately 13 weeks, with each term consisting of prescribed units of study that build upon each other. The program covers direct patient care, assessment, diagnostic measurements and procedures, and treatments. Students will receive training in a range of settings, including hospitals, long-term convalescent care facilities, and home health agencies.
American Career College provides a range of instructional equipment to support the program, including anatomical models, stethoscopes, medication carts, hospital beds with overbed and side tables, and procedural anatomical mannequins. The Vocational Nursing Program is acknowledged with the award of a diploma upon completion.
Overall, the American Career College Licensed Vocational Nursing Program provides comprehensive training for those interested in pursuing a career in nursing. However, it’s important to note that the program requires a significant time commitment, and the cost of tuition and other fees should also be taken into account. Additionally, students should be aware that becoming a licensed practical or vocational nurse requires passing the NCLEX-PN, which may require additional preparation beyond the program’s curriculum.
Admission Requirements
- Meet with an admissions advisor
- Pass the HESI entrance exam with a minimum score of 70% in Math, Reading Comprehension, Grammar, and Vocabulary & Knowledge
- Pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) with a minimum score of 17
- Obtain a background clearance at the time of enrollment
- Complete on-campus health screenings, pathology tests, and/or immunizations before clinical assignments
- Ability to perform physical tasks during externship/clinical experience
- Pass drug testing in certain clinical placement situations
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 90% |
| Cost | $38,094 (Tuition: $34,900, Other Fees: $3,194) |
| Program Duration | 54 weeks (Day) 84 weeks (Evening/Weekend) |
| Clock hours | 1,570 clock hours |
| Class Schedule | Day, Evening, and Weekend Classes |
| Website | https://americancareercollege.edu/programs/vocational-nursing |
| Location | 4021 Rosewood Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90004 |
| Phone | 323-668-7555 |
NCLEX-PN Pass Rates: source
LVN Salaries in Los Angeles
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of LVNs in Los Angeles is 28,280, with an hourly wage of $32.95, resulting in an annual salary of $68,530. In comparison, the national average for LVNs is an hourly wage of $19.51 and an annual salary of $40,580, while in California, the average LVN hourly wage is $33.62, leading to an annual salary of $69,930. Therefore, LVN salaries in Los Angeles are higher than the national average but slightly lower than the state average in California.
| # of LVNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| California | 73,740 | $ 33.62 | $ 69,930 |
| Los Angeles | 28,280 | $ 32.95 | $ 68,530 |
Influences on LVN Salaries in Los Angeles
Several factors can influence LVN salaries in Los Angeles. Some key influences include:
- Location: LVN salaries can vary based on geographic location within Los Angeles. Certain areas or healthcare facilities may offer higher wages due to factors such as cost of living, demand for LVNs, and local market conditions.
- Experience and Education: LVNs with more experience and advanced education or certifications may be eligible for higher salaries. Additional training, specialization, or years of service can contribute to increased earning potential.
- Healthcare Setting: The type of healthcare facility can impact LVN salaries. For instance, LVNs working in hospitals or specialty clinics may earn higher salaries compared to those working in nursing homes or outpatient care centers.
- Demand and Supply: The demand for LVNs in Los Angeles can affect salaries. Areas with a higher demand for LVNs or a shortage of qualified professionals may offer higher wages to attract and retain talent.
- Unionization: Unionized LVNs may have the advantage of collective bargaining, which can lead to negotiated higher wages and better benefits.
- Economic Factors: Economic conditions, including overall economic health and industry trends, can influence salary levels for LVNs. Economic growth and increased healthcare spending may positively impact wages.