Earning an LVN From Accredited Texas Program
For those interested in the healthcare industry, earning an LVN degree is one of the quickest ways to enter a fast-growing field. As the U.S. population ages, the need for licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) increases for hospitals and nursing home facilities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for practical and vocational nurses to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029.
LVN programs focus on the core values of the nursing field: dignity, integrity, altruism, autonomy, and social justice. Over the course of a one-year program, students learn to apply these values to provide safe and quality healthcare as determined by the state board.
According to the BLS, LVNs earn a median annual salary of $47,480. These LVN careers include working in healthcare facilities under the instruction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. Many LVN programs in Texas provide students with access to professional organizations and continued education programs to advance their careers.
What Can I Do With a LVN Degree?
With an LVN degree, students qualify to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nursing. After passing the exam, degree-holders can pursue various healthcare positions within the state of their licensure. This includes hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, schools, and private practices. Typical duties of an LVN include administering medication, taking vitals, providing patient comfort, and reporting on a patient's condition to a physician or RN.
An LVN degree can also serve as the foundation for advancing a nursing career. Often the courses in an LVN program provide basic knowledge for pursuing an associate degree or a bachelor of science in nursing. This shortens the time and cost of a four-year degree.
Accreditation for an LVN Degree
When choosing an LVN program, check the school's accreditation. Accredited schools pass quality reviews conducted by third-party organizations. Regionally accredited schools pass review by regional institutions, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Schools with regional accreditation are often nonprofit, academically oriented colleges. Credits from these schools typically transfer smoothly to both regionally and nationally accredited schools.
National accreditation often goes to vocational schools or specific programs. Students should research the accreditation status of their desired school and give preference to regionally accredited schools. Learners can check a school's accreditation using the Department of Education's searchable database.
LVN programs also seek approval from their state board. Approval from the state board means the program meets the educational requirements to pass the state license exam.
AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Top Online Nursing Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
FAQ on LVN Programs in Texas
Is an LVN a nurse?
Yes. LVNs are entry-level nurses specializing in technical procedures. They work under RNs, mid-level practitioners, and physicians.
What is the difference between an LPN and LVN?
Functionally, there is no difference between an LPN and an LVN. LVN is the term used for a practical, or vocational, nurse in California and Texas.
What's an LVN salary?
In 2019, LVNs earned a median annual salary of $47,480, according to the BLS.
Do RNs or LVNs get paid more?
RNs oversee the work of LVNs, and therefore they make more per year. However, an LVN leads to an RN.
What Are the Requirements for an LVN Degree?
All LVN programs require a high school or GED diploma. LVN programs in Texas additionally require that all applicants take the Texas Success Initiative Assessment.
Two nursing school entrance exams exist: the Test of Essential Academic Skills and the Health Education Systems, Inc. While some programs accept either test, many require a specific one and offer the test onsite.
LVN programs also require a full health screening at the time of acceptance, proof of immunizations and health insurance, and CPR certification. Programs sometimes offer CPR courses as part of the curriculum. Every program focuses on clinical rotations that serve as the student's capstone.
Courses in a LVN Program
An LVN program typically consists of a combination of theory classes, lab simulations, and hands-on clinical experience. In these courses, students gain ethically informed problem-solving skills and explore the foundations of specialized medical care. Through clinical rounds, students apply classroom knowledge often under the supervision of RNs and physicians.
The final round of clinicals often serve as a capstone for the program. Supervisors assess enrollees' mastery of nursing philosophy in practice. Some programs may focus on medical practice, while others specialize in an age group or type of assistive care. The list below includes common courses found in an LVN program.
This course provides an introduction to the nursing profession. Topics include history, legal topics, ethical and professional standards, and mental health management. Enrollees examine the philosophy guiding not only vocational nurses but the entire nursing profession. These ethical pillars shape the future course load as well as the benchmark for progressing in the field.Basic Nursing Skills
Enrollees learn the general principles of giving patients medicine per physician guidelines. This includes instruction on dosage, safety, documentation, and measurement tools. The course provides the basic knowledge required for future courses. Students also practice these skills in clinicals, preparing them for professional LVN duties.Essentials of Medical Administration
Gerontology is one of the age group specialized courses offered in LVN programs. Similar courses include pediatrics or maternity and neonatal care. These courses focus on the physical and psychosocial needs of older patients. Gerontology also covers common diseases associated with aging, as well as cultural attitudes toward the elderly. Specialized instruction allows for LVNs to treat different patients with the same level of dignity and quality while addressing their unique needs.Gerontology
Pharmacology expands on the knowledge learned in medical administration to cover the chemistry behind determining medication treatments. Additionally, the course includes instruction on the therapeutic and curative effects of different types of medications. This knowledge allows LVNs to make informed decisions when providing patient care. Knowledge of pharmacology proves especially useful for LVNs working in hospitals and nursing homes with high volumes of medication prescriptions.Pharmacology
Many programs include a required course preparing for the state licensing exam during the final semester. The prep course covers a review of nursing knowledge, study skills, and test-taking strategies. Completing a program and earning a certificate qualifies students for the exam. Programs with NCLEX Prep courses ensure that students pass and earn their license so that they can continue on to the workforce.NCLEX Prep
Certifications
Best LVN Programs in Texas 2021
-
Lee College
Location
Baytown, TX
A public community college in Baytown, Lee College offers a 12-month vocational nursing program. The 47-credit program includes class lectures, laboratory work, and hands-on clinicals at local facilities. Courses cover gerontology, pediatrics, adult, and neonatal and maternity care.
The final clinical serves as the program capstone to measure students' competency and mastery of nursing techniques outlined in the Differentiated Essential Competencies of Graduates of Texas Nursing Programs. Applicants need at least a 2.0 GPA and a composite score of 78 on the HESI-PN entrance exam for consideration.
(Video) 10 Best Nursing Schools in Houston 2021After completion, students receive a Level 1 Certificate of Completion from the college and qualification to take the NCLEX-PN. The nursing program meets the standards outlined by the Texas Board of Nursing and educational requirements for licensure in 46 states.
-
College of the Mainland
Location
Texas City, TX
College of the Mainland, a public community college in Texas City, has offered a clinical training intensive vocational nursing program since 2005. The program centers on employer-valued skills and provides students with the ability to offer ethical and evidence-based care.
Enrollees must attend two weeks of full-time clinical orientation. Along with the general vocational nursing curriculum, COM requires specific training in surgical nursing for all graduates. The school also offers an LVN-to-RN program that graduates of the vocational nursing program can enter after obtaining an LVN license.
Successful applicants need at least a 2.0 GPA; a minimum 70% on the HESI-A2 math, reading, basic vocabulary, and grammar sections; and a "C" or better in human anatomy and physiology. The program takes 12 months to complete and starts in January.
-
Schreiner University
Location
Kerrville, TX
(Video) Why RN’s always say don’t become an LPN/LVN.Schreiner University is a private, Presbytarian four-year university in Kerrville that offers a year-long vocational nursing certificate program. The beginner-friendly program requires no prerequisite classes and includes anatomy and physiology classes within the course curriculum. Clinical training is outsourced to Kerrville-area medical facilities. Learners may need to work outside of regular program hours.
Applicants need at least a 2.0 GPA, two recommendation letters, and a persuasive essay for program consideration. Applicants must also participate in an interview.
-
San Jacinto Community College
Location
Pasadena, TX
See Also19 Tips to Grow Views, Impressions, and Drive More Traffic to Your YouTube11 Best Universities with high acceptance rate for international students in USA| Tuition, Details & Rankings - Education Planet OnlineHow to Become a Military NurseBiggest College Scholarships | Top 50 Scholarships 2020(Video) ALL ABOUT MY LPN/LVN PROGRAM｜WHAT TO EXPECT IN NURSING SCHOOL?!A public, regionally accredited community college in Pasadena, San Jacinto College offers a level two certificate of technology program in vocational nursing. San Jac hosts a fall and spring start for the LVN program on both the North and South campuses.
The program includes 560 in-class instructional hours and 864 lab and clinical hours. The course load focuses on nursing skills and ethics courses, with a total of five clinical rounds over the 12-month program. Due to the rigorous curriculum, applicants must have completed human anatomy and physiology with a "C" or better within five years of applying. Students may transfer credits for the prerequisite from another accredited institution. After completing the program, certificate-holders may apply for the associate of applied science - LVN degree.
Successful applicants need at least a 2.25 college GPA and HESI-A2 scores of at least 70% in reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and math.
-
Amarillo College
Location
Amarillo, TX
Amarillo College, a public, regionally accredited community college in Amarillo, offers a mentor-style 12-month LVN certificate program. Faculty serve as coaches guiding students through the process of learning and integrating nursing science and patient care.
See AlsoFive Things To Know About The 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World CupAccelerated Nursing Programs in New York – 2022How to Be Happy Again: 13 Ways to Shake off Sadness NowGet to Know the Best University in Shanghai and Top FiveCourses include lectures, labs, and clinicals. While learners must complete labs and clinicals in person, AC offers online and hybrid synchronous lecture options. The campus hosts a full Nursing Resource Center with clinical simulation labs to practice patient-oriented care. Students must complete each class with a 75% average to progress to the next school term.
Prerequisites include anatomy and physiology and medical terminology with at least a "C" grade. Applicants are scored on a point system with a combination of points assigned based on GPA, HESI-A2 scores, and prerequisite grades.
FAQs
What is the fastest LPN program? ›
Delta's Practical Nurse Advanced Certificate program features a fast-track program that is typically completed in one year not counting prerequisite coursework.
Where do LVN get paid the most? ›| City | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $66,390 | $5,532 |
| Cool Valley, MO | $66,268 | $5,522 |
| Bolinas, CA | $66,038 | $5,503 |
| Washington, DC | $66,006 | $5,500 |
In California, a prospective LVN can challenge the board and sit for the LVN licensing exam- without having to go through an approved, formal LVN program.
How much do new LVN make in Texas? ›How much does an LVN make in Texas? The average LVN salary in Texas is $50,554 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $45,938 and $56,273.
How much does a new grad LVN make in Texas? ›$39,330 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $48,838 is the 75th percentile.
What is the easiest nurse to become? ›The easiest role you can have as a nurse is that of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN). LPNs and LVNs work under registered nurses (RNs), providing basic nursing care.
What is the shortest nursing program? ›Certified Nursing Assistant
A CNA program is a fast-paced program that only takes a couple of months to fully complete. After graduation, students can enter the field right away, assisting nurses with patient work in a wide variety of settings.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing: RN-to-BSN Purdue University Global. ...
- B.S. Nursing (RN to BSN) Western Governors University. ...
- BS - Nursing RN to BSN Online at Arizona State University. ...
- RN to BSN Utica University.
| Total Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs: | 1,385 |
|---|---|
| Location Quotient: | 1.46 Location Quotient is a measure used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to determine how concentrated a certain industry is in a single state compared to the nation as a whole. You can read more about how BLS calculates location quotients here |
- Monitoring and recording vital signs.
- Updating patient charts.
- Offering bedside care.
- Assisting in nursing care.
- Dressing wounds.
- Administering medications.
- Organizing medication of patients.
- Providing meals.
How much do LVNs make in San Antonio Texas? ›
The average LVN salary in San Antonio, TX is $50,061 as of , but the salary range typically falls between $45,490 and $55,724.
Is LVN hard? ›It's difficult and requires a great deal of commitment but it's extremely doable if you put your mind to it. I just finished my LVN program last Friday and I a graduate this Friday. I can tell you that I had to changed how I studied and prepared myself after getting a 76 on my first three exams in Fundamentals.
Can you take the NCLEX without going to school? ›All applicants must have completed an educational program meeting all California requirements. If you are lacking any educational requirements, you must successfully complete an approved course prior to taking the examination.
Can LVN take RN NCLEX? ›Upon successful completion of the LVN to RN program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX for Registered Nursing in California only. You will not receive a degree from Concordia University Irvine or be a graduate of an accredited program, and you may not be eligible for licensure in other states.
How long is LVN school in Texas? ›LVN programs are offered at Gainesville, Corinth, Bowie, Graham, and as an online hybrid. The program is 12 months in length. Upon successful completion, you will be awarded a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination - Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).
How much does a cna make per hour in Texas? ›Certified Nurse Aide
Competitive pay rate: $13-$19 per hour.
According to Indeed.com, the average phlebotomy technician salary in Texas is $31,952, or $16.98 per hour.
How much do LVNS make in DFW? ›The average Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) salary in Dallas, TX is $50,730 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $46,060 and $56,430.
How much do LVNs make in Houston? ›The average LVN salary in Houston, TX is $52,769 as of , but the salary range typically falls between $47,951 and $58,739. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
How do I get my LVN license in Texas? ›To become an LVN in Texas, educational requirements must be met by attending a program approved by the Texas Board of Nursing. Students must carry a “C” or above on all nursing courses. Once coursework is complete, the applicant must pass the NCLEX-PN. Only graduates of Board approved programs are eligible for testing.
Which nurses are the happiest? ›
There are countless nursing specialties that one can choose from, especially given the ongoing nursing shortage. But Nurse.org found that nurse educators, home health nurses, nurse managers, OR-perioperative nurses, and pediatric nurses reported the highest levels of job satisfaction.
What is the easiest nursing job that pays well? ›- Nurse Educator. Average Annual Salary: $62,000. ...
- Nurse Blogger. Average Annual Salary: N/A. ...
- Clinic Nurse. Average Annual Salary: $65,000. ...
- Traveling Nurse. Average Annual Salary: $70,000. ...
- School Nurse. Average Annual Salary: $50,000. ...
- Summer Camp Nurse. ...
- Nurse Administrator. ...
- Public Health Nurse.
- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
SHORT COURSES (6 MONTH IN-SERVICE CERTIFICATE PROGRAMMES)
As an Enrolled Nurse or Registered Nurse, you can develop your career by specialising in one or more post-basic fields of healthcare.
You're headed for a great career, one that's rewarding, challenging, and always exciting. But nursing school is notoriously difficult. Most nursing programs require high GPAs and impressive scores in math, chemistry, biology, psychology, and other demanding subjects. It's also extremely fulfilling.
Which nursing program is easiest to get into in California? ›What is the easiest nursing school to get into in California? California State University—Bakersfield has an acceptance rate of 78%, which is higher than other schools in the state.
How can I increase my chances of getting into nursing school? ›- Write Down Your “Why” for Nursing. ...
- Choose a Nursing School with Multiple Start Dates. ...
- Ensure You Meet Admissions Requirements. ...
- Create a Professional Resume. ...
- Connect with Your Admissions Counselor. ...
- Start Your Prerequisites Early. ...
- Spend Time with Patients.
- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
Even if you have the disposition and drive to enter a new career in the nursing field, you might be asking yourself, “Am I too old to become a nurse?” The answer to this question is no. Nurses come from all walks of life and all age groups.
What is the lowest paying state for LPNs? ›What state are nurses the happiest? ›
- Minnesota (Quality of life ranking #2, Hospital rating by nurses 86%)
- Wisconsin (Quality of life ranking #3, Hospital rating by nurses 88%)
- Oregon (Quality of life ranking #18, Hospital rating by nurses inconclusive)
California has the worst nursing shortage in the United States. It's predicted that by 2030, California will be in need of over 44,000 nurses. Other states with major hospital staff shortages include New Mexico, Vermont, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and Arizona.
Can LVNs draw blood? ›As mentioned above, an LVN must be supervised in her activity and cannot do everything an RN does. For instance, though most LVNs can draw blood or administer injections, they rarely start an intravenous line.
What is a job title for LVN? ›The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) functions under the direct supervision of the Registered Nurse (RN). The LVN provides nursing care to patients of all ages; from pediatric to geriatric, within the LVN scope of practices – as delegated by the RN.
What city in Texas pays nurses the most? ›The area where registered nurses are paid the highest is Houston, where the average RNs salary is $83,890 and 54,540 registered nurses are currently employed. The Dallas area comes in second, with a $82,260 average RN salary and 62,840 registered nurses employed.
How much do LVNs make at Methodist Hospital San Antonio? ›Average Methodist Health System Licensed Vocational Nurse yearly pay in the United States is approximately $55,474, which is 8% above the national average.
How much do LVNs make an hour in San Antonio Texas? ›As of Oct 15, 2022, the average annual pay for a LVN in San Antonio is $54,910 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $26.40 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,055/week or $4,575/month.
Who makes more money MA or LVN? ›One of the major differences between medical assistants and LPNs is their earning potential. Since LPNs are licensed nurses, they typically earn higher salaries than medical assistants. Medical assistants make an average salary of $46,596 per year , while LPNs earn an average salary of $56,188 per year .
Is LPN harder than CNA? ›Is an LPN higher than a CNA? LPNs hold practical nurse licenses and receive more training and responsibility than CNAs. CNAs must pass a competency exam in most states, but they fill assistant roles and often work under the supervision of LPNs. In addition, LPNs earn higher salaries than CNAs.
Is being a LPN worth it? ›You have abundant job opportunities
Jobs in the medical field are always in high demand as we will always need healthcare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for LPNs specifically are expected to grow 9% in the next decade.
What happens if you fail NCLEX 3 times? ›
If they fail, they'll need to wait 45 days before retesting. After failing three times, though, they'll need to complete a board-approved remediation program before the next retake. Candidates have six attempts to pass in total.
Can you fail at 75 questions on NCLEX? ›Can I Fail the NCLEX at 75 Questions? To pass the NCLEX RN or PN, test takers must correctly answer at least 75 questions (the minimum amount). Unfortunately, that means you can also fail the exam within those 75 questions or items.
What is passing rate for NCLEX? ›...
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates - First Time CA Educated Exam Testers.
| School | American Career College | |
|---|---|---|
| 2018/2019 | % Pass | 93.1% |
| 2019/2020 | # Taken | 68 |
| % Pass | 92.65% | |
| 2020/2021 | # Taken | 84 |
In California, a prospective LVN can challenge the board and sit for the LVN licensing exam- without having to go through an approved, formal LVN program. While this may be good news for some, there are strict guidelines for this means of licensure.
How many times can you take the NCLEX? ›Candidates who have applied for licensure/registration with a participating nursing regulatory body (NRB) will be permitted to take the NCLEX eight times a year and there must be 45 test-free days between each examination.
Can you challenge LPN exam? ›Challenging the Board
Taking the NCLEX-PN is unavoidable but if you have professional experience, you may be able to waive the LPN certification coursework. This is what's called "challenging the board," presenting them with evidence that you're qualified to take the test without a certification.
How much does a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) make in Dallas, TX? The average Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) salary in Dallas, TX is $50,730 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $46,060 and $56,430.
How much do LVNS make in Houston TX? ›How much does an LVN make in Houston, TX? The average LVN salary in Houston, TX is $52,769 as of , but the salary range typically falls between $47,951 and $58,739.
How much do LVNS make in San Antonio Texas? ›The average LVN salary in San Antonio, TX is $50,061 as of , but the salary range typically falls between $45,490 and $55,724.
How much do LVNS make in El Paso TX? ›How much does an LVN make in El Paso, TX? The average LVN salary in El Paso, TX is $45,030 as of , but the salary range typically falls between $40,918 and $50,124.
What kind of nurses get paid most? ›
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist – $202,000.
- Nursing Administrator – $120,000.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
| Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $74,436 | $36 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,023 | $30 |
| Average | $59,596 | $29 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,647 | $22 |
How much does a BSN Nurse make in Dallas, Texas? As of Oct 14, 2022, the average annual pay for a BSN Nurse in Dallas is $79,494 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $38.22 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,528/week or $6,624/month.
How much do LVNs make at Texas Children's Hospital? ›How much does a Licensed Vocational Nurse make at Texas Children's Hospital in the United States? Average Texas Children's Hospital Licensed Vocational Nurse hourly pay in the United States is approximately $30.98, which is 7% above the national average.
How much do LVNs make an hour in Houston Texas? ›As of Oct 16, 2022, the average annual pay for a No Experience LVN in Houston is $54,576 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $26.24 an hour.
How long does it take to become a LVN in Texas? ›Most LVN programs are designed to be completed in roughly one year of full-time study, or two years of part-time study. Some schools offer programs in a daytime setting, while others host night or weekend schedules. The majority of LVN programs in Texas are found at junior colleges and technical schools.
What city in Texas pays nurses the most? ›The area where registered nurses are paid the highest is Houston, where the average RNs salary is $83,890 and 54,540 registered nurses are currently employed. The Dallas area comes in second, with a $82,260 average RN salary and 62,840 registered nurses employed.
How much do cna make in Texas hourly? ›| Years of experience | Per hour |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 years | $15.61 |
| 3 to 5 years | $16.44 |
| 6 to 9 years | $16.86 |
| More than 10 years | $18.58 |
Average Methodist Health System Licensed Vocational Nurse yearly pay in the United States is approximately $55,474, which is 8% above the national average.
How much do nurses make in the States? ›In the United States overall, the average registered nurse salary is $82,750 and the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. California, with RN salaries averaging $124,000, is the highest-paying state for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What is an LVN vs RN? ›
Yes, an RN position is a higher level nurse than an LVN. RNs may supervise LVNs. While LVNs provide basic patient care, RNs assess patient conditions, record patient medical symptoms and histories, administer medicine, perform and analyze diagnostic tests and create patient care plans.