LVN Programs in Lakewood, California

Get your LPN license in Lakewood, California - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse in Lakewood, California

Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in Lakewood, California, could be your perfect path. LVNs play a crucial role in patient care, working under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This guide will help you understand the steps to becoming an LVN, available local programs, and what you can expect from this fulfilling career.

Why Become an LVN in Lakewood?

Lakewood, located in Southern California, is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and beautiful parks. With a supportive community and proximity to Los Angeles, Lakewood offers excellent opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for LVNs was $48,070 as of May 2022, and the job growth is projected to be 9% from 2020 to 2030.

For more information about Lakewood, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for LVN Programs

Before enrolling in an LVN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

High school diploma or GED
Minimum age of 18
Pass entrance exams (varies by school)
Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

LVN programs typically cover both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing. You can expect courses in:

Anatomy and Physiology
Pharmacology
Nursing Fundamentals
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Pediatrics and Geriatrics

Clinical training is a significant component, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings.

LVN Training Programs in Lakewood, California

Here are some local schools offering LVN programs in Lakewood:

Long Beach City College
- Address: 4901 E Carson St, Long Beach, CA 90808
- Program Details: The LVN program at Long Beach City College provides comprehensive training, including classroom instruction and clinical practice. Tuition and fees are approximately $6,000 for the entire program.
- LVN Program Page
American Career College – Long Beach
- Address: 236 E 3rd St, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Program Details: This program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training, designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam. The cost is around $30,000.
- LVN Program Page
Cerritos College
- Address: 11110 Alondra Blvd, Norwalk, CA 90650
- Program Details: Cerritos College offers an LVN program focusing on patient care and clinical skills. Tuition is approximately $5,000.
- LVN Program Page

LVN Employment Opportunities in Lakewood

Several major healthcare facilities in Lakewood offer employment opportunities for LVNs:

Lakewood Regional Medical Center
- Description: A 172-bed acute care hospital providing a range of services including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation.
- Neighborhood: Central Lakewood
- Employment Opportunities
Long Beach Memorial Medical Center
- Description: One of the largest hospitals in California, offering comprehensive healthcare services.
- Neighborhood: Long Beach, 5 miles from Lakewood
- Employment Opportunities
Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center
- Description: A major healthcare provider offering a variety of medical services and specialties.
- Neighborhood: Downey, 8 miles from Lakewood
- Employment Opportunities

LVN Certification Requirements

To practice as an LVN in California, you need to:

Complete an approved LVN program
Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
Apply for licensure through the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT)

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LVN programs in Lakewood ranges from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the institution. Financial aid options are available, including:

Federal Pell Grants
Federal student loans
Scholarships from organizations like the Health Professions Education Foundation

Licensure Reciprocity

California offers licensure reciprocity for LVNs moving from other states. You must provide proof of current licensure and meet California’s specific requirements, which may include additional coursework or exams. More information is available on the BVNPT website.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to become an LVN in Lakewood, California? Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and how to apply. Your rewarding career in healthcare is just around the corner!

Which Lakewood schools offer LVN programs?

Lakewood LVN Programs (campus-based programs as well as online LVN programs) are medical training programs. LVN programs are typically offered at vocational schools, technical schools, state colleges, nursing universities, online LVN programs, and other higher education institutions.

The best LVN school for you is the one that prepares you for success as a nurse. Many two year colleges that offer associate degrees also offer LVN programs. Exact class size and clinical requirements will vary by each college offering the program.

How do I become an LVN in California?

You must complete a practical nursing program and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam to be certified and receive your required LVN licensure.

How long will my LVN Course be?

Most LVN programs take 1 year to one and a half years complete. That's a 12 month to 18 month training program. Some nursing schools offer LVN programs which will qualify you for certification after only 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 months of class.

Do I need to complete an LVN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No. Completing LVN training is not necessary before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN degree can be completed in as little as two years.

What are typical LVN Pre-Reqs?

As all schools have different academic requirements to get accepted into their LVN program, California LVN schools are no exception. You can expect an entrance exam or at least a prerequisite check when you submit your application to determine your eligibility. There may be additional academic requirements also.

At the very least, most schools require applicants to have a High school diploma / GED. You also must get accepted to the college that you are applying to.

Financial aid, including nursing scholarships or federal grant money, may be available to you as a new students enrolling in Lakewood LVN classes. For more information, check with the Admissions office at the program you are applying to.

Are CNA to LVN Programs Available?

Yes, some vocational schools in California offer CNA to LVN programs. Usually, a CNA to LVN program will last one year. CNAs who Enroll in one of these programs will build upon their existing knowledge to learn the necessary skills to work at the LVN level.