Program Overview

Vocational Nursing (LVN), Certificate of Achievement (C)

Overview

The Vocational Nursing program prepares applicants to practice as competent, compassionate, and ethical Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). The program provides a high-quality vocational education program that is sensitive to the diverse needs of our students and our community. We facilitate educational access and academic excellence through a learner-centered nursing program, and prepare students to successfully pass the National Licensing Exam (NCLEX PN) and to practice Vocational Nursing in a variety of health-related settings: skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, Residential care facilities, memory-care units, sub-acute care units, hospice and home health agencies, school districts, jails, clinics, surgery centers, and physician’s offices.

Certificate of Achievement Requirements

Students must earn a "C" or better or "P" in all courses required for the major. Candidates for a Certificate of Achievement are required to complete at least 35% of the department requirements through SBCC.

Course List

• Department Requirements:
  • Prior to first semester:
    • BMS 100: The Human Body (4-8 units)
    • or BMS 107 & BMS 108: Human Anatomy and Human Physiology
    • Qualifying score on TEAS reading exam
    • Qualifying score on TEAS math exam or MATH 107: Intermediate Algebra (0-5 units)
  • First Semester:
    • VN 161: Fundamentals for Nursing Practice 1 (5 units)
    • VN 162: Care of the Older Adult (1.5 units)
    • VN 163: Pharmacology for Nurses (3 units)
    • VN 164: Nursing Practicum I (6 units)
  • Second Semester:
    • VN 165: Medical Surgical Nursing I (3 units)
    • VN 166: Medical Surgical Nursing II (3.5 units)
    • VN 167: Nursing Care of Children (2 units)
    • VN 168: Mental Health Nursing (1 unit)
    • VN 169: Nursing Practicum II (6 units)
  • Third Semester:
    • VN 170: Medical Surgical Nursing III (3.5 units)
    • VN 171: Medical Surgical Nursing IV (3.5 units)
    • VN 172: Maternal Newborn Nursing (1.5 units)
    • VN 173: Preparation for Professional Vocational Nursing Practice (1.5 units)
    • VN 174: Nursing Practicum III (6 units)

Total Units: 51.00-60.00

Learning Outcomes

• Function within the scope of practice of the LVN, as outlined by the California Board of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians.
• Apply the nursing process to practice by collaboratively assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care.
• Practice within professional and legal standards, ethical principles, and demonstrate sensitivity to the cultural differences of patients.
• Apply principles of oral, written, and verbal communication to convey relevant, accurate, and complete information.
• Demonstrate the art and science of professional caring incorporating professional values and client advocacy.
• Be prepared to take the NCLEX-PN licensing examination.

Recommended Sequence

Make an appointment with your SBCC academic counselor through Starfish to create a Student Education Plan that reflects a recommended course sequence for this program that is tailored to your individual needs.