LVN Programs in Texas 2021

For those interested in the healthcare industry, earning an LVN degree is one of the quickest ways to enter a fast-growing field. As the U.S. population ages, the need for licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) increases for hospitals and nursing home facilities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for practical and vocational nurses to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029.

LVN programs focus on the core values of the nursing field: dignity, integrity, altruism, autonomy, and social justice. Over the course of a one-year program, students learn to apply these values to provide safe and quality healthcare as determined by the state board.

According to the BLS, LVNs earn a median annual salary of $47,480. These LVN careers include working in healthcare facilities under the instruction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. Many LVN programs in Texas provide students with access to professional organizations and continued education programs to advance their careers.

Top 5 LVN Programs in Texas

What Can I Do With a LVN Degree?

With an LVN degree, students qualify to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nursing. After passing the exam, degree-holders can pursue various healthcare positions within the state of their licensure. This includes hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, schools, and private practices. Typical duties of an LVN include administering medication, taking vitals, providing patient comfort, and reporting on a patient’s condition to a physician or RN.

An LVN degree can also serve as the foundation for advancing a nursing career. Often the courses in an LVN program provide basic knowledge for pursuing an associate degree or a bachelor of science in nursing. This shortens the time and cost of a four-year degree.

Accreditation for an LVN Degree

When choosing an LVN program, check the school’s accreditation. Accredited schools pass quality reviews conducted by third-party organizations. Regionally accredited schools pass review by regional institutions, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Schools with regional accreditation are often nonprofit, academically oriented colleges. Credits from these schools typically transfer smoothly to both regionally and nationally accredited schools.

National accreditation often goes to vocational schools or specific programs. Students should research the accreditation status of their desired school and give preference to regionally accredited schools. Learners can check a school’s accreditation using the Department of Education’s searchable database.

LVN programs also seek approval from their state board. Approval from the state board means the program meets the educational requirements to pass the state license exam.

FAQ

What Are the Requirements for an LVN Degree?

All LVN programs require a high school or GED diploma. LVN programs in Texas additionally require that all applicants take the Texas Success Initiative Assessment.

Two nursing school entrance exams exist: the Test of Essential Academic Skills and the Health Education Systems, Inc. While some programs accept either test, many require a specific one and offer the test onsite.

LVN programs also require a full health screening at the time of acceptance, proof of immunizations and health insurance, and CPR certification. Programs sometimes offer CPR courses as part of the curriculum. Every program focuses on clinical rotations that serve as the student’s capstone.

Courses in a LVN Program

An LVN program typically consists of a combination of theory classes, lab simulations, and hands-on clinical experience. In these courses, students gain ethically informed problem-solving skills and explore the foundations of specialized medical care. Through clinical rounds, students apply classroom knowledge often under the supervision of RNs and physicians.

The final round of clinicals often serve as a capstone for the program. Supervisors assess enrollees’ mastery of nursing philosophy in practice. Some programs may focus on medical practice, while others specialize in an age group or type of assistive care. The list below includes common courses found in an LVN program.

Professional Organizations for LVN Majors

Professional organizations provide LVNs with exclusive industry resources to advance their careers. Almost all of these organizations include membership options for students that can be upgraded once acquiring a license. After becoming a member, LVNs gain access to continued education programs, organization-specific scholarships and grants, and the latest information regarding nursing standards and practice.

The following organizations provide the best opportunity for growth and development for LVNs.

• National Association of Licensed Practical Nurses The NALPN is one of the largest professional organizations available to LVNs. The association promotes continued education within the field and provides networking opportunities through yearly conferences. Members also gain access to certification programs.


• Licensed Vocational Nurses Association of Texas LVNAT provides benefits for LVNs and LVN students in Texas, including scholarships and reduced fees for professional training. After submitting an application, qualified applicants pay a yearly dues based on the level of membership.


• National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service, Inc. NAPNES is the nation's oldest organization dedicated to the promotion and education of practical nurses. Members enjoy access to online classes and certification programs and an included subscription to the Journal of Practical Nursing. The organization offers a diverse list of membership types.


• National Association of School Nurses The NASN is restricted to LVNs who work as school nurses. It also offers more specialized resources for LVNs who wish to advance their careers. LVNs begin with an associate membership option and can progress to an active membership once acquiring an RN license. All membership tiers include access to online toolkits, journal resources, and networking opportunities.

Best LVN Programs in Texas 2021