Vocational Nursing

Students will learn about anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and maternal-child nursing, among other topics. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed vocational nurses.

What is Vocational Nursing?

Vocational Nursing, also known as Practical Nursing, is a healthcare profession focused on providing basic nursing care to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. Vocational nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. Their duties may include administering medications, monitoring vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. Vocational nurses play an important role in the healthcare team, working closely with physicians, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide high-quality patient care.

Is Studying to be a Vocational Nurse Right for Me?

A Vocational Nursing Certificate of Achievement is ideal for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare and have a passion for helping others. This program is designed for students who want to enter the nursing profession quickly, as the program typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete. Vocational nursing is a great option for those who want to start working in the healthcare field without having to spend several years in school. Additionally, individuals who have strong communication skills, are detail-oriented, and can work well under pressure would benefit from this program. Finally, those who have a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and their families would also find this program rewarding.

There are several key traits and skills that can make someone a good fit for studying Vocational Nursing. Here are some of the most important:

• Compassion
• Attention to detail
• Communication skills
• Stamina
• Problem-solving skills
• Emotional stability
• Teamwork

Vocational Nursing Program (Advanced Placement/Transfer)

The VN Advanced Placement/Transfer option is intended for students who have met all application requirements and are seeking nursing course credit for prior learning or experience such as transfer students, military veterans or other healthcare professionals, including Licensed Vocational Nurses. Students will receive credit for prior learning and be placed in the Registered Nursing Associate of Science Program accordingly.

Vocational Nursing Program (Advanced Placement/Transfer)

Vocational Nursing Certificate

Vocational Nursing (COA)

Vocational Nursing Program Mission The mission of the Bakersfield College Vocational Nursing Program is to prepare entry-level vocational nurses as providers of care across the health/illness continuum and as members within the profession. 

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Vocational Nursing Careers

There are several career paths that someone with a Vocational Nursing Certificate of Achievement can pursue. Here are some of the most common:

1. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN): LVNs are responsible for providing basic nursing care to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
2. Home Health Nurse: Home health nurses provide nursing care to patients in their homes. They may work for home health agencies or hospice organizations, and their duties may include administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and providing wound care.
3. Nursing Home Nurse: Nursing home nurses provide nursing care to patients in long-term care facilities. They may be responsible for administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and providing wound care, among other duties.
4. Medical Office Nurse: Medical office nurses work in doctors' offices, clinics, and other outpatient settings. They may be responsible for triaging patients, administering medication, and providing patient education.
5. Dialysis Nurse: Dialysis nurses work with patients who have kidney disease and require dialysis treatment. They may be responsible for administering dialysis, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
6. Pediatric Nurse: Pediatric nurses specialize in providing nursing care to children from infancy to adolescence. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings and may be responsible for administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support to children and their families.
7. School Nurse: School nurses provide nursing care to students in schools. They may be responsible for administering medication, providing first aid, and managing students with chronic health conditions.

Beyond BC

Transfer to a University

Graduates with an Associate Degree from Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, options, and opportunities.

Transfer Pathways

Academic Department: Nursing

Career & Learning Pathway: Health Sciences (HS) Pathway

Courses: Vocational Nursing (VNRS)