If you’re a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Los Angeles looking to advance your career, a CNA to Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program could be your next step. These programs are designed specifically for CNAs who wish to expand their responsibilities and increase their earning potential by becoming LVNs. In Los Angeles, you have access to a variety of programs that cater to the unique needs of working professionals, offering flexible schedules and comprehensive training that builds on your existing skills.
These bridge programs typically last about a year and prepare you for the NCLEX-PN exam, the licensing requirement for LVNs. You’ll gain in-depth knowledge in patient care, leadership, and specialized health care skills that go beyond your current CNA duties.
We strive to provide the most current and accurate information on CNA to LVN programs in Los Angeles. The details on this page are updated regularly to ensure you have access to the latest data as you plan your career advancement.
California Preparatory College CNA to LVN Program
California Preparatory College offers a CNA to LVN bridge program designed to help Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) advance their careers by qualifying for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam in just 23 weeks. The program is structured to fit around your personal and professional life, with both physical classes in Riverside, CA, and flexible online options. Supportive instructors are available to ensure your success throughout the program.
First Semester
The first semester consists of 10 modules, including a 54-hour Pharmacology class required by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). Additionally, the college has added a 6-hour Law & Ethics module, making the course a total of 60 hours. This semester covers essential topics such as:
- Commonly used drugs and their actions
- Dosage computation
- Medication preparation
- Principles of medication administration
Second Semester
In the second semester, students complete 12 modules, including an NCLEX-PN Review course tailored to prepare them for the Next Generation NCLEX-PN exam introduced in April 2023. This review is a comprehensive test-taking tutorial aimed at ensuring students are ready to excel in the licensure examination.
BVNPT Application Seminar
California Preparatory College offers a seminar to guide students through the BVNPT application process. This session helps students understand and complete the application thoroughly, with a review to catch and correct any errors before submission.
Requirements
To qualify for the NCLEX-PN exam, students must meet the following requirements in the in the CNA to LVN program:
- Completion of a 54-hour Pharmacology class (included in the first semester)
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent (international equivalency accepted)
- Live Scan Fingerprinting, DOJ & FBI Background Check
- Verification of 51 months of paid general duty inpatient bedside nursing experience, including:
- 48 months in medical/surgical nursing (minimum of 40 months in an acute care facility)
- 6 weeks (240 hours) in maternity or genitourinary nursing
- 6 weeks (240 hours) in pediatric nursing
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Contact school for details |
| Program Duration | 23 weeks |
| Class Schedules | In-person classes meet on Saturdays |
| Website | California Preparatory College CNA to LVN Program |
| Location | Crown Of Life Church: 5939 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92506 |
| Phone | (909) 534-4812 |
| Online Classes | Yes |
Center for Caregiver Advancement (Free CNA to LVN Registered Apprenticeship Program)
The Center for Caregiver Advancement has received a $14 million grant to expand its CNA and CNA to LVN Registered Apprenticeship Programs. This initiative aims to create a highly trained workforce of nurse assistants to address staffing shortages in the skilled nursing industry. The apprenticeship programs offer a pathway for career advancement for nursing home workers while tackling the industry’s staffing crisis. Participants will be prepared for the state certification exam through these programs.
The Need
The long-term care industry in California faces significant challenges with high employee turnover rates, especially among CNAs. The Center for Caregiver Advancement’s program addresses these challenges by providing training and support to nursing home workers, thereby creating a stable and skilled workforce to care for vulnerable communities.
The Program
The apprenticeship program aims to train 500 new Nursing Assistants over three years and includes a pilot for a CNA to LVN Registered Apprenticeship Program. The program is free for eligible participants and offers comprehensive support services and financial incentives to overcome barriers to education and career advancement. The program includes:
- Earn-and-learn model: Participants are hired as apprentices, earning wages while they train.
- Nationally recognized credential: Apprentices receive a credential from the U.S. Department of Labor.
- No cost: Tuition and all out-of-pocket expenses are covered.
- Stipends: Financial support for childcare, groceries, and transportation.
- Mentorship: Guidance from experienced CNAs and LVNs.
- Retention bonus: Up to $300 in bonuses for staying in the job.
Program Benefits
- Paid tuition and expenses
- Paid training time
- Financial stipends for groceries, transportation, and childcare
- Ongoing support and case management
- Nationally recognized credential upon completion
- Retention bonuses for continued employment
Admission Requirements
To participate in the Registered Apprenticeship Program, applicants must meet the following prerequisites:
- High school diploma or equivalency (GED or HiSET)
- Original government-issued photo ID and Social Security Card
- Proficiency in English (minimum 6th grade level), Math (minimum 6th grade level), and Digital Literacy
- Completion of an Education and Career Action Plan (ECAP)
- Completion and submission of all required program and grant forms by deadlines
Additionally, participants must complete:
- Flu and TB clearances (Chest X-ray if necessary)
- COVID-19 vaccine and boosters
- Other required immunizations
- Live Scan/Criminal Screening Background Test
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Duration | Varies (Part of a 3-year initiative to train 500 new Nursing Assistants) |
| Class Schedules | Earn-and-learn model with paid classroom training |
| Website | Center for Caregiver Advancement CNA to LVN Program |
| Location | 2910 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90057 |
| Phone | (844) 725-8232 |
| [email protected] | |
| Online Classes | No |
California Career Institute
California Career Institute (CCI) offers a streamlined CNA to LVN program that is designed to utilize the skills and experiences of current Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) to advance their careers to become Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). This transition is achievable within just one year, offering a swift pathway to increase responsibilities, knowledge, and earning potential.
Transitioning from CNA to LVN
CCI’s program uniquely includes both CNA and LVN courses, providing a comprehensive learning experience that builds on existing skills. This integration makes it especially advantageous for current CNAs, simplifying their educational journey. The program is structured to equip students with practical knowledge under expert guidance, ensuring they are well-prepared for their roles in healthcare settings.
LVNs typically assume leadership roles over CNAs and earn approximately twice the salary of CNAs. They possess a broader scope of practical knowledge, which is crucial in supporting doctors and nurses daily. With CCI’s program, students can rapidly transform their careers and begin making significant contributions to their communities.
Key Benefits
The program promises a fast track to a professional career as an LVN, taking only 12 months to complete, which is significantly shorter than traditional university programs. This efficiency allows graduates to enter the workforce quickly and fill critical roles in the healthcare industry.
Program Locations
CCI operates from two campuses:
- Anaheim Campus: 1240 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806
- Hawthorne Campus: 11633 Hawthorne Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 92850
Both locations offer the same high-quality training and support.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the CNA to LVN program at California Career Institute, candidates must:
- Hold a current CNA certification
- Have practical experience working as a CNA
- Contact the institute for a detailed consultation on program specifics and admission procedures
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | 12 months |
| Class Schedules | Not specified (Contact institute for details) |
| Website | California Career Institute CNA to LVN |
| Location | Anaheim Campus: 1240 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 Hawthorne Campus: 11633 Hawthorne Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 92850 |
| Phone | 714-539-5959 |
| Online Classes | No |