If you’re considering a career in healthcare, vocational nursing programs can be an excellent place to start. These programs provide the knowledge and skills you need to become a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors.
If you live in San Francisco and want to pursue this career path, you’re in luck. The city has several LVN programs to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and offerings. On this page, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of LVN programs in San Francisco, along with information about their costs, program duration, class schedules, and NCLEX-PN pass rates. We believe that by providing this information, we can help you make an informed decision about which program is right for you and take the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare.
Featured LVN Programs
Below you will find a curated selection of premier LVN programs in the San Francisco area. We update our list regularly to ensures access to the most reliable choices within the San Francisco region. Learn more about each school’s LVN program by selecting your school of interest below:
City College of San Francisco
The Licensed Vocational Nursing Department at the City College of San Francisco has a mission to provide quality education in vocational nursing and nurse assistant/home health aide education. The faculty is committed to exploring innovative measures to maintain the quality of education while adhering to its fundamental principles. The department offers a program that prepares students for State Licensure in Vocational Nursing and State Certificates in Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide.
The LVN program at the John Adams Center is a full-time, 18-month course of instruction that spans three semesters. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate in vocational nursing and 40.5 units of college credit. The program is accredited by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Graduates will also be eligible to take the state examination for licensure in vocational nursing.
The program provides foundational nursing skills necessary for employment in various healthcare settings, including acute care facilities, clinics, long-term care facilities, physician offices, and home and health centers. As a Licensed Vocational Nurse, students will be adequately prepared to take on different roles in their careers.
The Vocational Nursing Certificate of Achievement program is designed to prepare students for State License in Vocational Nursing. The program also offers students a sample map of courses to take to complete their academic goals. It is important to note that these course maps are merely examples, and students are advised to meet with a counselor to personalize their academic plan to meet their individual goals.
The LVN program at the City College of San Francisco is an excellent option for students interested in pursuing a career in vocational nursing. The program is designed to provide students with the necessary foundational nursing skills to excel in different healthcare settings. The program is also accredited, and graduates will be eligible to take the state examination for licensure in vocational nursing.
Admission Requirements
- At least 18 years of age or older.
- Official U.S. accredited high school transcript or equivalent (GED or U.S. high school equivalent) showing completion of 12th grade.Completion of English-1A and MATH-40 or higher, with a minimum grade of “C” in both.
- Overall GPA of 2.5 in Science and 2.0 in English-1A.Completion of prerequisites within 5 years before enrollment, with a minimum grade of “C” in each class:
- Anatomy & Physiology course (4-8 units) such as BIO-106 or both BIO-108 and BIO-112.
- VOCN 41D Pharmacology
- Nutrition (or BIO 134)
- Child Growth and Development (or CDEV 53 or CDEV 67 or PSYC 21)
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 83% |
| Cost | California residents: $1,863<br>Non-California residents: $11,624 |
| Program Duration | 18-month |
| Class Schedule | Full time schedule |
| Website | https://www.ccsf.edu/academics/schools/allied-health-physical-education-social-services/licensed-vocational-nursing-department |
| Location | 50 Frida Kahlo Way, San Francisco, CA 94112 |
| Phone | 415-561-1909 |
| [email protected] |
Unitek College
The LVocational Nursing (LVN) program at Unitek College South San Francisco is an intensive and well-rounded program that can be completed in as little as 12 months. The program offers an evening program that can be completed in 17 months for those who need more flexible scheduling. Students in the LVN program learn through a combination of expert lectures, simulation training, and hands-on exercises. The program also has a supportive NCLEX review team that has achieved a 94% NCLEX passing rate for the LVN program over the last 12 months, which is among the highest for all vocational nursing schools in California.
The LVN program at Unitek College South San Francisco prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and entry-level nursing employment. The program equips students with skills to perform basic nursing care, record medical histories, measure vital signs and other diagnostics, monitor adverse reactions to medication, collaborate with patients, families, and community resources to provide holistic care, and promote health awareness, education, and the practice of vocational nursing.
The program has individual desks, whiteboards, projectors, and patient care stations that simulate real hospital settings, IV poles, enteral feeding pumps, blood pressure cuffs, scales, patient mannequins, and equipment to practice routine nursing procedures. The LVN program also covers courses on nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, medical-surgical, maternal and newborn, pediatrics, and professional development.
The Unitek College South San Francisco campus occupies more than 7,000 square feet with multiple classrooms, skills labs, and computer centers. The campus library, student lounge, and several administrative offices, including admissions, career-services, and financial aid, are also available to students. The program offers unlimited parking and received the ACCSC School of Distinction Award in 2018.
The proximity of the campus to major healthcare organizations is a tremendous asset for students, as two Kaiser facilities are located within minutes of the campus. The South San Francisco campus is situated near the Junipero Serra Freeway, and San Francisco is minutes away. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system is also available for commuting.
Admission Requirements
- Must be able to read, write, and understand English as all courses are taught in English and no translation services are provided
- Complete an interview with an admissions representative, parents and spouses are encouraged to attend
- Submit application packet and other required documentation for review
- Eligibility for admission will be determined after the review process
- Refund of fees paid if not accepted
- Must be at least 17 years old, and if 17, a parent or legal guardian must co-sign the enrollment agreement
- Proof of completion of 12th grade level education required
- Must self-declare as a U.S. citizen, national, or eligible permanent resident of the United States
- Valid social security number or Federal Tax ID number (pre-licensure Nursing programs & Nursing pre-requisite courses)
- Passing score on any required entrance exams
- Applicants may be denied admission for violating or contributing to the violation of the school’s policies.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 85% |
| Cost | Inquire with program |
| Program Duration | 12 months |
| Class Schedule | Day and night classes |
| Website | https://www.unitekcollege.edu/programs/vocational-nursing/south-san-francisco/ |
| Location | 257 Longford Drive #5, South San Francisco, CA 94080 |
| Phone | 650-651-4619 |
NCLEX-PN Pass Rates: source
LVN Salaries in San Francisco
According to the table below from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 8,730 LVNs in San Francisco. Their hourly wage is $38.69, which results in an annual salary of $80,470. Comparing this to the national average, we can see that LVNs in San Francisco earn significantly higher salaries. The national average hourly wage for LVNs is $19.51, with an annual salary of $40,580. This indicates that LVNs in San Francisco make almost double 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 Francisco also have higher wages. Their hourly wage of $38.69 and annual salary of $80,470 exceed the state average, highlighting the relatively higher earnings in San Francisco.
| # of LVNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| California | 73,740 | $ 33.62 | $ 69,930 |
| San Francisco | 8,730 | $ 38.69 | $ 80,470 |
Influences on LVN Salaries in San Francisco
Several factors can influence LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) salaries in San Francisco. Let’s explore some of the key influences:
Cost of Living: The high cost of living in San Francisco can impact LVN salaries. Due to the expensive housing, transportation, and general expenses in the area, employers may offer higher wages to attract and retain LVNs.
Experience and Education: LVNs with more experience and advanced education or certifications may earn higher salaries. Additional training, specialized skills, and years of service can contribute to increased earning potential.
Demand and Supply: The demand for LVNs in San Francisco 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 for qualified candidates.
Healthcare Setting: The type of healthcare facility or organization can influence LVN salaries. Hospitals, medical centers, and specialized clinics may offer higher wages compared to long-term care facilities, nursing homes, or outpatient centers.
Unionization: Being a part of a union can impact LVN salaries in San Francisco. Unionized LVNs often have collective bargaining power, enabling them to negotiate for higher wages and better benefits.
Economic Factors: Overall economic conditions and industry trends can influence LVN salaries. Economic growth, changes in healthcare policies, and advancements in healthcare technology can affect salary levels.