Nursing in California: Plan Your Career as an RN or LVN

Registered Nursing

Registered nurses mostly work independently. They provide critical care to patients in hospitals, clinics, private practices and home health care agencies. A registered nurse can have a variety of educational backgrounds. Some RNs practice with only an associate degree in nursing, while others advance to a full bachelor of nursing (BSN). There are a number of ways how to become an RN fast, including starting working as an RN before going back to pursue a BSN. 

BSN (RN to BSN)

According to the National Institutes of Health, most RNs enter practice with an associate degree in nursing [3]. More are being encouraged, however, to pursue a BSN degree to advance their careers. There are programs designed to advance a nurse’s career by continuing their education. These programs are called RN to BSN bridge programs sometimes, and may help you advance your career. 

Why Become a Nurse

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the outlook for nurses is rosy[4]. This included entry-level positions such as LVN and RN, as well as positions requiring a masters degree, such as nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner. The total number of nursing jobs is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations.

This growth is partially driven by a shortage of nurses. As baby boomers age and their need for care grows, the need for nurses grows too.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing says there was a 3.7% enrollment increase in entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs in 2018 [5], which doesn’t begin to cover the need. Also, 75,000 qualified applicants were turned away because of a shortage of faculty, clinical preceptors or both [6].

Up to 2028, RNs and LVNs are expected to add almost 450,000 jobs [7][8,9].

Beyond a rosy job outlook, there are many personal reasons to become a nurse. Maybe you are driven to help people. Or perhaps you thrive in fast-paced environments. Nursing is a career that many find fulfilling because it fits their skills and personality. People who thrive in nursing should be:

• Empathetic, so they can advocate for patient needs
• Communicative, so they can coordinate care between different health care practitioners
• A people person, because there are lots of interpersonal relationships in nursing
• Problem solvers, because medical problems are often complex.

Both RNs and LVNs are required by the State of California to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years [20].

How Long Does it Take to Become a Nurse?

Licensed vocational nurses typically take classes for one year, then begin working under the supervision of an RN. They can complete an Associate Degree in Registered Nursing in two years. They then can apply for an RN license.

RNs can then start college classes to obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing after four years.

Can I Go to Nursing School Online?

It is possible to attend nursing school online. While nursing school often includes labs that may be in-person, you can take much of your coursework through an online nursing program in California. 

What to Look for in a Nursing Program

There are many factors to consider when looking at a nursing program in California, including, of course, a nursing school near you and price. But there are other key things to factor into your decision-making process.

• Accreditation

Look for certification from such groups as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

• Career assistance

Nursing schools can help if they have relationships with health care facilities. Check out a program’s placement rate, and find out how long it usually takes their graduates to find a job, and where.. 

• Highly qualified faculty 

Knowledgeable teachers and instructors are key to your learning. Check the credentials of faculty, including their membership in the National League for Nursing.

• NCLEX success rate

Check into the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) pass rate at the school you are considering. If the program fails to properly prepare students for the exam, that will show in the statistics.

LVN vs RN vs BSN Programs: What’s the Difference?

The differences between LVN, RN and BSN programs in California largely hinge on the number of years and experience.

LVNs must complete a program, usually two years, approved by the Bureau of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. They must complete and pass a licensure application, along with completing a background and conviction check [21].

RNs must complete a nursing program, obtaining either an associate degree in nursing in two years or a four-year bachelor of science degree in nursing. At either point, a nursing graduate can apply for an RN license [22].

RNs often upgrade their education and opportunities by pursuing a BSN degree. It can be completed in as little as 12 months [23].