If you work as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) in California, you may be wondering how to earn a higher salary, gain more professional autonomy, and increase your career options. Earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) can prepare you to become a registered nurse (RN) or take the next step and become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
This guide to LVN-to-BSN programs in California explains how you can leverage your education and experience to advance your career with a BSN. Learn more about this exciting option today.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best California LVN-to-BSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
How Do California LVN-to-BSN Programs Work?
LVN-to-BSN programs explore advanced skills and provide more background and nursing theory to prepare you for a broader scope of practice. You will participate in classroom learning and clinical fieldwork to build your skills and understanding. Graduates of LVN-to-RN programs in California are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and become licensed nurses.
Please note that licensed practical nurses (LPN) and LVNs hold the same type of license. California and Texas use the LVN terminology, while other states refer to this role as an LPN.
Applying to a California LVN-to-BSN Program
Make sure you set aside time to prepare a thoughtful application. Some LVN-to-RN programs in California accept applications only at specific times in the year, while others accept applications year-round. Have someone you trust review your resume and essay if possible.
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Admission Materials
Complete application, essay or personal statement, resume or CV, at least two references, transcripts
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GPA Requirement
Most programs require or prefer a 3.0 or higher. If your GPA is borderline, talk to the admission staff. Other factors, such as exceptional experience, fluency in multiple languages, or other background considerations, may outweigh a lower GPA.
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Other Requirement
Programs may have other prerequisite courses.
Why Is California LVN-to-BSN Program Accreditation Important?
To earn an RN license, you must graduate from an accredited nursing school. During the accreditation process, an independent group of experts in nursing and education reviews every aspect of the program that affects its quality and the ability of graduates to practice safely as nurses. This expert review against current nursing standards helps protect everyone involved, including you, your employer, and most of all, your patients. It is imperative that you graduate from an accredited school to become an RN.
This guide lists only accredited LVN-to-BSN programs in California to help you make the best choice for your career.
Learn More About the Best California LVN-to-BSN Programs and Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best LVN-to-BSN Programs in California
California State University-Fullerton
- Fullerton, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
California State University-Fullerton offers one of the best LVN-to-BSN (licensed vocational nurse-to-bachelor of science in nursing) programs in California. The program is open to DACA students and undocumented immigrants, provided that they have an individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN).
Cal State Fullerton's LVN-to-BSN program typically enrolls 20 qualified applicants each year. It does not require or accept letters of recommendation. Students must enroll full time and complete coursework with their cohort. The program provides clinical placement within a 50-mile radius of campus. Second language fluency or military status give students an advantage with admissions.
Details:
- Program(s): LVN-to-BSN
- Campus: Fullerton, CA
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $8,613 per year for full-time, California residents; $16,929 per year for full-time, out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: 60 college-level credits; 3.25 GPA; CSU prerequisite courses and labs; current and unencumbered California LVN license; social security number or ITIN
- Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.6%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $86,042 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 The Best LVN-to-BSN Programs in California
California State University-San Marcos
- San Marcos, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
California State University-San Marcos' LVN-to-BSN accepts only four students each fall. Learners enter the regular BSN program as second-year students. Applicants must complete a nursing skills assessment for admission during the May before the fall term and receive a 100% score on skills and math. They must also complete the pre-nursing core or equivalent.
Details:
- Program(s): LVN-to-BSN
- Campus: San Marcos, CA
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $5,742 per year for California residents; $15,246 per year for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Current and unencumbered LVN license; completion of pre-nursing core curriculum or equivalent with 2.75 GPA; IV certification
- Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.7%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $88,074 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 The Best LVN-to-BSN Programs in California
Azusa Pacific University
- Azusa, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
Azusa Pacific University's LVN-to-BSN program is available at the Victorville, San Bernardino, or Monrovia campuses. The program emphasizes Christian values in nursing. Programs follow a cohort model, with cohorts starting in the fall, spring, or summer. The school welcomes veterans and is a designated Yellow Ribbon University and a silver-level Military Friendly® School. Students may not transfer nursing credits from community colleges, though general credits can transfer.
Details:
- Program(s): LVN-to-BSN
- Campus: Victorville, San Bernardino, or Monrovia, CA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $825 per unit
- Admission Requirements: 49 units of credit (up to 70 units may transfer) with "C" grades; current California LVN license; collegiate-level communication skills; microbiology and human anatomy with labs; general, organic, and biological chemistry with at least 2.7 GPA and no course lower than a 2.0 GPA; college algebra; two references; current CPR with AED for healthcare providers
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83.8%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $89,570 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#4 The Best LVN-to-BSN Programs in California
California State University-East Bay
- Hayward, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
California State University-East Bay offers a pre-licensure program for students with an LVN license. Current Cal State East Bay full-time students, first-time local transfer students without a bachelor's degree, and honorably-discharged members of the military receive priority admission. The program notes that students outside these priority groups are not likely to receive admission. Students with second-language fluency and healthcare experience receive some preference.
Details:
- Program(s): LVN-to-BSN
- Campus: Hayward, CA
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $8,613 per year for California residents; $15,741 per year for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Prerequisite courses with a 3.0 GPA and all grades at "C" or higher; 70% TEAS Exam overall score and minimum 65% English and reading; current and unencumbered California LVN license (for LVN admission)
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months (pre-licensure)
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 The Best LVN-to-BSN Programs in California
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
National University's nursing classes start monthly, and students complete one course at a time. Learners apply to both the university and the nursing program. Designed for working students, NU offers evening, weekend, and online courses. In-person programs are available at the San Diego, Los Angeles, and Fresno campuses. Service members and their families receive discounted tuition.
Details:
- Program(s): LVN-to-BN
- Campus: La Jolla, CA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $388 per quarter credit
- Admission Requirements: General education and nursing prerequisite courses with 2.75 cumulative GPA; "C" grade in all prerequisite courses
- Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.9%
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $84,367 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Frequently Asked Questions About California LVN-to-BSN Programs
How does an LVN become an RN in California?
As an LVN, you can earn either an ADN or a BSN and then take the NCLEX-RN. A BSN degree is more versatile and offers more prospects for promotion. It even prepares you to go to graduate school to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
How long is an LVN-to-BSN program in California?
LVN-to-BSN programs in California take 2-3 years, depending on the pace, whether you are a full- or part-time student and if you need to take any prerequisite courses.
What can you do with a BSN in California?
With a BSN, you can become an RN or even attend graduate school to earn a master of science in nursing (MSN) and become an APRN. Demand for RNs is high in California. In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the average RN salary in California at $124,000 as of May 2021.
Is it worth completing an LVN-to-BSN program?
An LVN-to-BSN program is a significant investment of time and money. Many students enroll in LVN-to-BSN programs in California for the higher RN salary, more professional autonomy, and the ability to make even more of a difference in patients' lives.
