Vocational Nursing (VN) Program in Los Angeles

In this foundational module, students delve into the core aspects of the vocational nursing role. From legal and ethical considerations to principles of infection control, emergency care, and nursing assessment, this course lays the groundwork for a healthcare career. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, communication, and the nursing process, ensuring that students develop the skills necessary to assist clients in achieving optimal health. This module also covers geriatric care, home and community health nursing, and the vocational nurse's role in restorative and rehabilitation care. 

This module takes a body systems approach to teaching human anatomy and physiology. Students gain an understanding of the human body as a living organism and explore topics such as body chemistry, microbiology, and medical terminology. The integration of anatomy and physiology concepts throughout the curriculum ensures that students have a solid foundation for the more specialized nursing modules to come. 

In this module, students are introduced to the basic principles of pharmacology. The curriculum covers drug dosage calculations, legal aspects of medication administration, and pharmacokinetics. With a focus on patient safety, administration techniques, and nursing care guidelines, students gain the knowledge needed for responsible and effective medication management. 

Students build on skills focusing on nursing care for adults with common medical-surgical healthcare needs. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, causes of disorders, and the nurse's role in diagnostic tests. Through hands-on experiences in clinical sites and labs, students apply these concepts to real-world scenarios related to various health issues. Integration of Medical-Surgical Nursing I concepts continues throughout the curriculum for a seamless progression of knowledge and skills. 

In this module, students deepen their nursing skills by focusing on diverse medical-surgical healthcare needs for adults in various settings. The curriculum highlights health promotion, explores the causes of disorders, and reinforces the nurse's role in diagnostic tests. The spotlight expands to cover systems like urinary, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, lymphatic/blood, neurosensory, and reproductive. Through clinical sites and labs, students apply these concepts to diverse health disorders, ensuring a cohesive learning experience throughout this advanced module. 

Students increase their mastery of knowledge and critical thinking skills, focusing on nursing care for adults with common medical-surgical healthcare needs in various settings. The curriculum integrates health promotion, causes of disorders, and the nurse's role in diagnostic tests. Cultural and spiritual competencies, along with identifying complications, are further refined. This module introduces concepts related to leadership and professional development. Through clinical sites and labs, students gain hands-on experience, applying concepts to real-world scenarios, emphasizing the importance of leadership and professional development in optimal patient care. 

This module introduces the use of critical thinking skills and the nursing process in caring for the childbearing family. Childbearing health-related issues including cultural and spiritual needs are taught as a normal process. Also included is nursing care for high-risk and complications of pregnancy. Emphasis is placed on the childbearing family during the prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum periods. Nursing care of the neonate is also included. Clinical sites and/or simulated client laboratory assignments provide hands-on learning experiences that enable the student to apply concepts and skills related to the child-bearing family. 

This module introduces the student to the nursing care of children and builds on the progressive mastery of knowledge, skills, abilities, and critical thinking skills learned in Terms I, II, & III. The emphasis is placed on growth and development, anticipatory guidance, cultural and spiritual needs, and common health care problems of children from infancy through adolescence. Recognition of child abuse and appropriate nursing interventions are taught. The nurse's role in evidence-based nursing practice is reinforced. Clinical sites and/or simulated client laboratory assignments provide hands-on learning experiences that enable the student to apply concepts and skills related to the safe and effective care of children. 

This Term IV module builds on the therapeutic communication techniques introduced in VNFN. The focus of this module is nursing care which emphasizes the promotion and support of the emotional, mental, and social well-being of clients in a variety of settings. Included is the continuum of mental health and current treatment modalities. Clinical sites and/or simulated client assignments provide hands-on learning experiences. The student will be able to apply concepts of care for clients experiencing psychosocial needs. The Concepts and Applications of Mental Health Nursing are integrated throughout the curriculum. 

In the final term, students prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). This module reviews key concepts required for licensure examination and entry into the professional nursing practice. With a focus on critical thinking skills and individualized study plans, students are well-equipped to succeed in their licensure exams. 

NCC’s Vocational Nursing Program offers a critical externship component that plays an essential role in transforming classroom learning into real-world expertise. This hands-on clinical experience is seamlessly integrated into the curriculum, allowing you to apply the skills and knowledge you've gained in a true healthcare environment. During the externship, you’ll work directly with patients and healthcare professionals in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities, under the supervision of experienced nursing staff. This provides an invaluable opportunity to develop the practical skills necessary for effective patient care, refine your clinical techniques, and understand the nuances of working in diverse healthcare settings.

The externship bridges the gap between theoretical education and practical nursing, enhancing your confidence and competence as you step into real-world scenarios. Whether it’s taking vitals, administering medications, or communicating with patients, the externship gives you the chance to perform these critical tasks in a supportive, professional setting. Moreover, it allows you to build essential relationships with healthcare teams, gaining insights into the day-to-day operations of medical facilities. By the time you complete your externship, you’ll be equipped with the experience and expertise needed to excel in your nursing career.

Tuition: $31,325.00

Materials and Supplies: $1995.00

Books and uniforms: $2490.00

Registration fee: $75.00 (non-refundable)

STRF: $90.00 (non-refundable)

Total Cost: $35,975.00*

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*Financial aid is available for those who qualify. 

At National Career College (NCC), we embrace the philosophy that education is an investment, not a barrier. Understanding that financial constraints should not prevent students from achieving their educational goals, NCC is committed to providing comprehensive support to navigate the financial aspects of education. This commitment includes assisting students with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to unlock a range of financial aid options. 

Potential Financial Aid options: 

• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
• Federal Direct Loans (both subsidized and unsubsidized)
• Direct Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) 
• Cal Grants
• Guidance for applying for private loans and scholarships. 

With a clear focus on making education accessible and affordable, NCC encourages prospective students to reach out to its Financial Aid Department to explore how these financial aid opportunities can support their journey toward achieving their academic and career aspirations. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

The admissions requirements for the Vocational Nursing (VN) program at National Career College (NCC) are designed to welcome students from diverse backgrounds who are eager to pursue a career in nursing. Here's a summary of the key requirements for prospective VN students:

1. Obtain School Catalog and Program Brochures: Candidates must first acquire the NCC catalog and VN program-specific brochure to understand the comprehensive details of the program.
2. Campus Visit and Personal Interview: Applicants are expected to attend a personal interview and tour the NCC campus to become acquainted with the community and facilities. Schedule a Campus Tour. 
3. Entrance Evaluations: Pass the SLE & TEAS entrance evaluations to assess suitability and readiness for the course. 
   • Scholastic Level Exam (SLE): All VN program applicants must take the SLE, which measures problem-solving abilities. The exam consists of 50 questions to be completed in 12 minutes without external aids, with a passing score of 21 for the VN program.
   • Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS): After passing the SLE, applicants to the VN program must also pass the TEAS exam, which assesses essential academic skills. While the TEAS is not a pass/fail test, it requires a minimum score of 45.0% in the Basic Score Range of ATI “Academic Preparedness Levels” to qualify.
4. Application Submission: Complete and submit an application for admission along with providing proof of a valid high school diploma or an equivalent qualification, such as a GED or HiSET.
5. Registration Fee: Pay a one-time, non-refundable registration fee of $75.

NCC is committed to ensuring that prospective students are fully informed about the admissions process, including completion and placement rates, to aid in making educated decisions about their education and career aspirations. For full details, refer to the National Career College Catalog 2024.

To work as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), passing the NCLEX-PN exam is a mandatory requirement. Without this licensure, individuals cannot legally practice as LVNs. While there are alternative roles in healthcare for those without LVN licensure, such as nursing assistants, these positions offer a different scope of work, fewer job opportunities, and typically lower pay compared to licensed vocational nursing roles.

At National Career College (NCC), our dedication to your success reaches beyond graduation, providing comprehensive career support through our Career Services Department. We assist in the seamless transition from student to professional by offering services in resume preparation, job leads, effective job search techniques, interview preparation, application assistance, interview follow-up, career management workshops, and networking opportunities. 

While employment cannot be guaranteed, NCC encourages realistic career expectations, emphasizing entry-level positions as the foundation for career advancement. Our ongoing support includes guidance on navigating the job market and preparing for interviews, reinforcing our commitment to your career development. NCC's Career Services acts as a steadfast partner in your professional journey, equipping you with the tools and skills needed to step into your future career confidently.

At National Career College, we empower military members, veterans, reservists, and their families with quality education in healthcare and business, offering flexible scheduling, dedicated support, and maximization of military education benefits to facilitate a successful transition to civilian life. For more details read Military and Veterans.

Our dedicated faculty, comprising seasoned healthcare professionals and educators, plays a pivotal role in our students' educational journey. Their expertise and personalized approach to teaching ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed. 

Student Services offers comprehensive support that ensures every student's success through a wide array of services, from graduation ceremonies and academic resources to 24/7 technical support and personalized guidance, empowering you to excel academically and prepare confidently for your future career.

Check out our most popular blogs for more information:

1. A Day in the Life of an LVN
2. LVN Scope of Practice in California
3. LVN Salary California
4. How To Become an LVN in California