As a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), you can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. San Diego is home to several licensed vocational nursing programs that can help you achieve your career goals.
Whether you’re looking to make a difference in people’s lives, work in a fast-paced environment, or enjoy job security and opportunities for growth, vocational nursing can offer all of these benefits and more.
We’ve taken the time to research and assemble information about all LVN programs in San Diego. Take the time to review each program as each has differences in cost, schedule, and NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Concorde Career College
Concorde San Diego offers a vocational nursing diploma program that prepares students to become important members of healthcare teams and qualify for various roles in healthcare settings. In this program, licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) learn basic care skills for patients of all ages under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. Students learn how to take vital signs, insert catheters, provide mental health nursing care, administer medication, and perform other nursing duties in the classroom and clinical experience in real-world settings.
The program is available in both daytime and evening/weekend formats, with the daytime program taking 12 months to complete and the evening/weekend program taking 20 months. The program also includes NCLEX-PN review to help students prepare for the licensure exam, but admission to the exam is subject to outside agency requirements and may change without notice.
As an LVN, graduates can work in various healthcare settings such as acute care, chemotherapy, and pediatric care. The diploma program is approved by the California State Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT), and while certification is not a requirement for graduation, it is not a guarantee of employment.
Concorde San Diego’s vocational nursing program provides students with fundamental nursing skills and clinical experience to become competent LVNs. However, as with any program, success is not guaranteed, and employment opportunities may vary depending on local job market demand. Prospective students should carefully consider their career goals and the program’s requirements before applying.
Admission Requirements
- Complete the online application for the program.
- Pay the application fee
- Provide proof of high school graduation or completion of GED.
- Participate in a virtual interview, with the possibility of arranging an on-campus interview.
- Complete required entrance assessments, including the Wonderlic SLE and the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) A2 exam.
- Submit a physical exam and proof of immunization, if required for the program.
- Provide documentation proving citizenship or residency status (if requested).
- Undergo a criminal background check
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 89% |
| Cost | Inquire with provider |
| Program Duration | 12 – 20 months |
| Contact Hours | 1722 hours |
| Class Schedule | Full-time or part-time options including weekend and evening classes |
| Website | https://www.concorde.edu/nursing-programs/practical-vocational-nursing/san-diego |
| Location | 4393 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92113 |
| Phone | (619) 908-1963 |
Southwestern College
The Vocational Nursing (VN) program at Southwestern College is three semesters long and accepts 30 students every 18 months. If you want to apply, you need to have completed all program prerequisites and other requirements and have verified completion with a letter grade of “C” or better.
Upon completion of the program, students are expected to be able to communicate professionally and competently with patients and healthcare providers regarding patient care issues. Additionally, students will learn to analyze patient data related to medical conditions and adjust patient care accordingly, as well as administer medications correctly. They will also learn to work effectively with diverse healthcare providers, patients, and family members and demonstrate critical thinking skills in differentiating plans of care for patients from various cultural backgrounds.
The LVN program at Southwestern College focuses on preparing students for direct patient care and includes hands-on lab work in state-of-the-art facilities. If you want to apply for the LVN program, make sure to review the application checklist to ensure that you have all the required items.
Overall, the LVN program at Southwestern College offers a comprehensive education in vocational nursing and prepares students to work in a variety of healthcare settings. However, the program only accepts a limited number of students, so competition for spots may be high. It’s also essential to meet all program prerequisites and requirements before applying to ensure your application is considered.
Admission Requirements
- Composite score of 58% or higher on the TEAS.
- Completed program prerequisites with a grade of “C” or better.
- Review the Application Checklist before applying for the program.
- A complete application packet including physical exam and immunization forms is required.
- Immunization records and/or titer results are required for clinical placement.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 93% |
| Cost | $6,284 |
| Program Duration | 18 months |
| Class Schedule | Variable class schedules |
| Website | https://www.swccd.edu/programs-and-academics/career-education/health/licensed-vocational-nurse/index.aspx |
| Location | 900 Otay Lakes Rd, Chula Vista, CA |
| Phone | 619-421-6700 |
| [email protected] |
Health Occupations Center
With an impressive first-time NCLEX passing rate of over 90% over the last five years, this 18-month full-time program is accredited by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). It offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics such as medical terminology, growth and development, nutrition, pharmacology, and many more.
The program includes classroom instruction, simulation/skills labs, and clinical rotations in various hospitals and clinics in San Diego. The nursing faculty consists of experienced professionals in the nursing field, and students have access to nursing supplies, equipment, and a nursing lab to help them achieve their goals. This program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX exam, which upon successful completion, qualifies graduates to become licensed vocational nurses.
As a licensed vocational nurse, graduates will be eligible to provide direct patient care in acute, long-term care, and convalescent hospitals. They will be responsible for administering medications, providing bedside care and treatments, and performing other technical nursing skills under the direction of a physician and/or a registered nurse. Additionally, graduates may also take advantage of a “Step Up” program, which allows them to qualify for one year of credit toward a registered nursing program at local community colleges and some universities.
While the program offers a lot of valuable education and hands-on experience, it does require a significant commitment from students. You can expect to spend 5 – 8 hours in class daily, Monday through Friday, with some evening hours required for clinical rotations. The program is also three semesters in length, excluding summer. Be sure to check the program guide for current fees, schedule, and requirements before applying.
The Health Occupations Center’s LVN program is an excellent option for anyone looking to become a licensed vocational nurse. With a high first-time NCLEX passing rate, experienced nursing faculty, and comprehensive curriculum, graduates will be well-prepared for a career in the healthcare industry.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- An active California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification
- A passing score on the most current version of the ATI TEAS Test
- Completed Anatomy and Physiology course, with the following conditions: Anatomy and Physiology together must be within the last 7 years, Anatomy alone must be within the last 10 years, and Physiology alone must be within the last 7 years.
- Opportunities to fulfill the CNA and/or A&P requirements and take the ATI TEAS are available on the HOC campus and reviewed in the VN orientation video.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 91% |
| Cost | $8,500 ($5,500 tuition + $3,000 fees) |
| Program Duration | 18 months, 3 semesters |
| Class Schedule | Monday – Friday day classes. Occasional evening hours. |
| Website | https://hoc.guhsd.net/HOC-Courses/Vocational-Nursing/ |
| Location | 9368 Oakbourne Rd, Santee, CA 92071 |
| Phone | (619) 956-4300 |
| [email protected] |
NCLEX-PN Pass Rates: source
LVN Salaries in San Diego
When we look at the table below from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we can see the data on LVN salaries for San Diego, the national average, and the state average in California. In San Diego, there are approximately 6,150 LVNs. Their hourly wage is $32.57, which translates to an annual salary of $67,750.
Comparing these numbers to the national average, we can see that LVNs in San Diego earn higher salaries. The national average hourly wage for LVNs is $19.51, with an annual salary of $40,580. So, LVNs in San Diego make significantly more than the national average.
In terms of the state average for LVN salaries in California, which is $33.62 per hour and an annual salary of $69,930, LVNs in San Diego have slightly lower wages. However, the difference is not significant, and they are still earning a competitive salary compared to the statewide average.
These numbers represent averages and may vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and the specific healthcare setting. It’s always a good idea to consult reliable sources and consider local market conditions for the most accurate and up-to-date salary information.
| # of LVNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| California | 73,740 | $ 33.62 | $ 69,930 |
| San Diego | 6,150 | $ 32.57 | $ 67,750 |
Influences on LVN Salaries in San Diego
Several factors can influence LVN salaries in San Diego. Let’s explore some of the key influences:
- Experience and Education: LVNs with more years of experience or advanced education and certifications may command higher salaries. Additional training, specialized skills, and professional development can contribute to increased earning potential.
- Demand and Supply: The demand for LVNs in San Diego can affect salaries. If there is a higher demand for LVNs compared to the supply of available professionals, it can drive up wages as employers compete to attract and retain talent.
- Healthcare Setting: The type of healthcare facility or organization can impact LVN salaries. Hospitals, specialized clinics, and larger healthcare systems may offer higher wages compared to nursing homes, outpatient care centers, or smaller facilities.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in San Diego plays a significant role in salary levels. Since the cost of housing, transportation, and daily expenses may be higher in this region, employers may offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased living costs.
- Unionization: Being a part of a union can influence LVN salaries in San Diego. Unionized LVNs often have the advantage of collective bargaining, allowing them to negotiate for higher wages and better benefits.
- Economic Factors: Overall economic conditions and industry trends can impact LVN salaries. Economic growth, changes in healthcare policies, and shifts in healthcare demands can influence wage levels.