LPN to ADN Programs in California

The program is open to all applicants with an active California LVN license in good standing and with an overall cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 for all college coursework.

The LVN-RN program accepts few students and the admission process is very competitive. You should note that admission is not guaranteed even if all requirements are met.

Admission Requirements:

• One official transcript from each college and university attended
• Completion of pre-requisite science courses (Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Microbiology 5 semester units or equivalent) and English Composition, 3 semester units with a grade of C or better
• Satisfactory score on the TEAS V Test (at least 62%)

Applicants selected for enrollment in the program must have physical examination, laboratory tests, and immunizations just prior to starting the Nursing Program.

Affiliated clinical agencies mandate a background investigation (criminal history record search, SSN trace, Medicare/Medicaid fraud, and Nationwide Sex Offender Registry) must be completed before a student is able to take part in student clinical experience.

San Diego City College also offers a Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) to Registered Nurse (RN) Step-Up Program for LVNs who wish to advance their nursing careers by becoming RNs.

Admission Requirements

Admission into the LVN to RN Step-Up Program requires the following:

• Current LVN License: Applicants must hold a current and active California LVN license.
• Prerequisite Courses: The same prerequisite courses as the ADN program are required:
  • Human Anatomy (with lab)
  • Human Physiology (with lab)
  • Microbiology (with lab)
  • English Composition
• GPA Requirements: A minimum GPA of 2.5 in the prerequisite courses is required.
• Work Experience: While not always mandatory, applicants with recent work experience as an LVN in a healthcare setting are often given preference.
• Background and Health Checks: Accepted students must complete a background check and health screening, including immunizations, before starting the program.
• Entrance Exam: Applicants are required to take the ATI TEAS exam, with a minimum score of 62%.

Application Deadlines

The application periods are the same as for the ADN program:

• Fall Admission: Applications accepted from February 1 to February 28.
• Spring Admission: Applications accepted from August 1 to August 31.

Program Mode and Structure

The LVN to RN Step-Up Program is also an in-person program with courses held on campus. The program is typically shorter than the traditional ADN program since it builds on the foundational nursing knowledge and skills that LVNs have already acquired.