Vocational Nursing (VN) Program Overview
Course Description
Project Heartbeat’s Vocational Nursing program is a 47-week full-time program consisting of 576 hours of theory and 954 hours of clinical training, designed to prepare individuals to become licensed vocational nurses. Vocational nurses work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician and provide direct patient care utilizing scientific and technical expertise and manual skills. The program curriculum covers basic patient assessments, medication administration, wound dressings, vital signs, and other necessary skills to care for patients. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates receive a Certificate of Completion and are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical (Vocational) Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain their license.
Program Objectives
- Qualify for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam
- Deliver safe and competent care within LVN scope of practice
- Collaborate in nursing interventions and planning
- Practice ethically and professionally
- Demonstrate critical thinking and advocacy
Curriculum Highlights
Weeks 1–14: Term 1 – Foundations of Nursing Practice
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Pharmacology A
- Introduction to Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Clinical Rotations in Long-Term Care
Weeks 15–29: Term 2 – Medical-Surgical Nursing I
- Medical-Surgical Nursing II
- Mental Health & Psychiatric Nursing
- Pharmacology B
- Nursing Skills
- Expanded Clinical Rotations in Sub-Acute/Skilled Nursing Facilities
Weeks 30-47: Term 3 – Specialty Nursing & Advanced Care
- Medical-Surgical Nursing III
- Leadership & Supervision
- Maternal-Child Nursing
- Nursing Skills
- Advanced Clinical Experience in Hospitals and Specialty Units
- Clinical rotations to different specialties
- NCLEX-PN® Review and Preparation
Admissions Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 18 years or older
- Valid California Driver’s License
- TEAs entrance examination
- BLS Certification from AHA
- Current immunization records
- Completed application & $100 non-refundable fee
- Live Scan background check
Tuition & Fees
Total Program Cost: $28,312.50
- Tuition: $25,000
- Registration: $100
- Textbooks: $2,500
- Supplies & Equipment: $100
- Liability Insurance: $300
- Live Scan & Screening Fees: $150
Academic Calendar
Program Start: Spring 2026
Graduation: Spring 2027
Duration: 12 months | 576 Theory Hours | 954 Clinical Hours
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