Nursing

  1. About
  2. Applications & Workshops
  3. Programs
  4. Admissions Process
  5. Careers
  6. Advanced Standing
  7. Faculty & Staff
  8. FAQs

About Mendocino College Vocational Nursing Program:

We are currently in the process of working with the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) to secure approval for our new program. While this process takes time, we are dedicated to keeping you informed. Please check this website regularly for updates, as we expect to have more detailed information available in the next few months. ​

Pre-Application Orientation Workshop

We will provide further information when it becomes available.

Vocational Nursing Program

We will provide further information when it becomes available.

What is a Vocational Nurse and what do they do?
A Vocational Nurse (VN), or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), is an entry-level healthcare professional responsible for providing basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. In California, the role of an LVN varies by state, and is similar to that of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in other states. The term LVN is used primarily in California and Texas. LVNs become licensed in California when they are approved for licensure through the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). For more information regarding the BVNPT, please refer to their website at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/. 
 
Key responsibilities of an LVN in California:
  • Basic patient care and assessment [Monitoring vital signs, administering medications, wound care, assisting with daily activities, assisting with basic procedures, collecting samples, basic assessments (data collection)]
  • Patient education
  • Maintain patient records
  • Report patient changes in conditions, or any concerns to the supervising RN or physician
     
Where do LVNs work in California?
  • Hospitals
  • Long-term care facilities (nursing homes, rehabilitation centers)
  • Psychiatric hospitals
  • Correctional facilities
  • Clinics and Outpatient care centers
  • Home health care
  • Physician's offices
  • Schools
  • Dialysis centers and blood banks
  • Vocational nursing programs
     
Licensing and Education Requirements:
One method to become an LVN in California an individual must:
  • Complete a vocational nursing program that is accredited by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT).
  • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
  • Obtain licensure from the BVNPT.
Other methods of entry can be found on the BVNPT website at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/applicants/index.shtml
 
Differences between LVNs and RNs:
While both LVNs and RNs provide patient care, the key difference is that RNs have more advanced training and are authorized to perform more complex tasks, such as creating care plans, administering IV medications, and having a broader scope of responsibilities.
Both LVNs and RNs are required to pass national licensing exams, but pathways to licensure differ, with RNs needing to meet more regerous educational requirements. LVNS typically complete a shorter training program.
Job Outlook:
The demand for LVNs is expected to grow due to the aging population and increasing need for healthcare services. LVNs in California enjoy a range in opportunities, particularly in long-term care, home health, and correctional settings.
 
Should I become an LVN first or go straight for an RN?
Choosing between becoming an LVN or going straight for an RN depends on your career goals and timeline.
LVN programs are typically shorter than RN programs, letting you start working and earning sooner. You will gain valuable clinical experience that can ease your transition into an RN program later. LVNs can bridge into an RN program to build on their skills and experience.
RNs typically earn more, have a broader scope of practice, and have more career advancement opportunities.
Both paths lead to fulfilling careers in nursing. Many nurses find success regardless of where they start. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

What is a Vocational Nurse and what do they do?
A Vocational Nurse (VN), or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), is an entry-level healthcare professional responsible for providing basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. In California, the role of an LVN varies by state, and is similar to that of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in other states. The term LVN is used primarily in California and Texas. LVNs become licensed in California when they are approved for licensure through the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT).
Key responsibilities of an LVN in California:
  • Basic patient care [Monitoring vital signs, administering medications, wound care, assisting with daily activities, assisting with basic procedures, collecting samples, basic assessments (data collection)]
  • Patient education
  • Maintain patient records
  • Report patient changes in conditions, or any concerns to the supervising RN or physician
Where do LVNs work in California?
  • Hospitals
  • Long-term care facilities (nursing homes, rehabilitation centers)
  • Psychiatric hospitals
  • Correctional facilities
  • Clinics and Outpatient care centers
  • Home health care
  • Physician's offices
  • Schools
  • Dialysis centers and blood banks
  • Vocational nursing programs
Licensing and Education Requirements:
One method to become an LVN in California an individual must:
  • Complete a vocational nursing program that is accredited by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT).
  • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
  • Obtain licensure from the BVNPT.
Other methods of entry can be found on the BVNPT website at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/applicants/index.shtml
 
Differences between LVNs and RNs:
While both LVNs and RNs provide patient care, the key difference is that RNs have more advanced training and are authorized to perform more complex tasks, such as creating care plans, administering IV medications, and having a broader scope of responsibilities.
Both LVNs and RNs are required to pass national licensing exams, but pathways to licensure differ, with RNs needing to meet more rigorous educational requirements. LVNS typically complete a shorter training program.
Job Outlook:
The demand for LVNs is expected to grow due to the aging population and increasing need for healthcare services. LVNs in California enjoy a range in opportunities, particularly in long-term care, home health, and correctional settings.
 
Should I become an LVN first or go straight for an RN?
Choosing between becoming an LVN or going straight for an RN depends on your career goals and timeline.
LVN programs are typically shorter than RN programs, letting you start working and earning sooner. You will gain valuable clinical experience that can ease your transition into an RN program later. LVNs can bridge into an RN program to build on their skills and experience.
RNs typically earn more, have a broader scope of practice, and have more career advancement opportunities.
Both paths lead to fulfilling careers in nursing. Many nurses find success regardless of where they start. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

Contact Information

Mendocino College
Vocational Nursing Program
1000 Hensley Creek Road
Ukiah, CA 95482
lkline@mendocino.edu

 

 

Nursing Program | Frequently Asked Questions

No, all applications are considered for admission.

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

Nursing courses are generally during the day.  Clinical hours can extend beyond these hours and may include Fridays, evenings and weekends.

Further information will be provided when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

There is no restriction against working while enrolled in the Vocational Nursing Program. It is wise, however, to limit work as it may interfere with your success in the nursing program. There are many hours per week of reading/studying in addition to course and clinical hours.  You will not be permitted to leave early or arrive late to clinical or class because of your job.  There are clinical attendance requirements that are strictly adhered to.

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information regarding applications when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

Please seek the assistance of the Counseling Department (707) 468-3048 for transcript evaluation.

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

You will need to have a professional evaluation of your foreign transcript completed. The evaluation is not simply a translation of the courses, but rather it consists of a careful analysis of the actual content of the coursework you took in your country’s high school, college, or university.  This is often a costly process, and it is your responsibility to have this done well in advance of application.  There are several different agencies that can do this evaluation.  Seek assistance from the Counseling Department, or view the nursing application for acceptable agencies.  These courses may count toward general education courses.

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

Yes. Clinical sites require nursing students to have a background check and drug screen prior to entering the hospital for clinical experience.

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

We will provide further information when it becomes available. 

No, transportation and lodging are the responsibility of the student.  You will need dependable transportation throughout the nursing program and should figure transportation and lodging costs into your financial planning for nursing school.

Yes. All applicants are required to submit a copy of the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) Version 7 with a total score of 54% or greater with their application to be considered for the lottery. To register for the TEAS exam, or for information and study guides, go to www.atitesting.com. 

Local hospitals usually provide CPR for healthcare provider training.  Make sure your CPR is through American Heart and is for healthcare providers.