It’s no secret that there’s a large demand for nurses and LVNs. Beyond job security, there are plenty of reasons to become a nurse. Whether it’s being in a stable industry, the substantial pay, or the reward of helping people, you’ll be sure to benefit from living out your dream of becoming a nurse when you invest in becoming an LVN.
You might have some questions before taking the steps toward becoming an LVN. Maybe you’re wondering what an LVN is or what makes an LVN different from an RN. Maybe you want to know more about the salary and costs associated with becoming an RN? Perhaps you just need more information on the training timeline before you get some hands-on experience.
Either way, we’re here to break down all of the most common questions about becoming an LVN, specifically in the Los Angeles area.
Is an LVN A “Real” Nurse?
Yes! In fact, an LVN can perform many of the nursing duties that an RN can.
What’s great about starting as an LVN is that there are many ways to transition to an RN once you’re working. A lot of employers may offer tuition reimbursement for an LVN to RN bridge program. With the hands-on experience of being an LVN, not only will you already be earning a competitive income, you’ll also be knowledgeable in the field, making it easier to complete the required training to become an RN.
At the end of the day, LVNs are real nurses. The main similarity: Both careers require patience, leadership skills, and compassion.
Is it Better to Become an LVN in California or an RN?
There is no question that becoming an LVN is faster. With CDI’s accelerated LVN program, you’ll be able to start your career as a nurse in as little as 13 months, which also means moving up in the field sooner (or starting the training to becoming an RN sooner, if that’s your goal).
While there may be LVNs in California who want to transition to an RN eventually, that doesn’t mean you have to. There are plenty of LVNs who spend their entire career working alongside patients in a variety of facilities with plenty of growth opportunities, and it’s very possible to have a lifelong fulfilling career as an LVN. With specialty programs that can help increase opportunities and pay, there is definitely a lot of long-term potential of being an LVN.
How Fast Can You Become an LVN in Los Angeles?
The program lengths vary, but there are multiple ways to become a nurse in California.
If you choose to go to a four-year college or university with an RN or BSN program, you’ll often have to wait to apply to the nursing program after at least one year of being enrolled in the school.
Due to nursing being such a popular and growing field, it can be difficult to get into many RN or BSN programs when applying. For this reason, many students opt for an associate degree program at community college or trade school to become an LVN, since most of these programs can be completed in two years or less, and cost far less money. That’s why this is a great option for students concerned about the high-cost of a four-year degree. After all, getting into the field faster means you’ll be earning a competitive salary even sooner.
How Much Does an LVN Make in a Year?
LVNs can start their career making competitive salaries without a four-year degree. This is one of the many reasons that becoming an LVN is such a great career path.
While it depends on experience and where you live, the national average for LVN salaries in 2020 was $48,820/year. Whereas in California the average, as of January of 2022, was $56,256/year.
Although these numbers can vary since there are several career paths for LVNs to take, it’s clear that LVN salaries hold up compared to other career paths in the healthcare industry.
For example, vet techs with technical degrees and licensure earn far less than LVNs, and paramedics earn a median salary of just $34,000/year.
Can I Become an LVN Without a Four-Year Degree?
Yes! One of the main perks of becoming an LVN is that you can do it without a four-year degree.
Although you don’t need a college degree, you will need a high school diploma or GED. But if you don’t have one, don’t worry, the CDI admissions team has ways to help you get one.
Overall, when you factor in the debt that comes with a four-year degree and the hours put in that come with it, vocational nursing is definitely a competitive and cost-effective choice when it comes to your career.
Can I Get Financial Aid to Become an LVN?
There are numerous options available if you need help covering LVN course costs. As a nationally accredited LVN program, CDI offers many financial aid options, including FAFSA eligibility. Learn more about how to get assistance while earning your LVN license here.
Need More Information About Becoming an LVN Today?
Upon completing the training and certification as an LVN, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to advance your career and move into more leadership roles.
If you are wanting to find the right nursing school in Los Angeles for you, contact us here or give us a call at 310-559-0225 for a free consultation. Or click here to learn more about CDI.
