What Are the Differences Between LVNs and RNs?

If you are considering completing the coursework and clinical requirements to move from LVN to RN, it’s important to understand the primary differences between LVNs and RNs, which include the following:

  • Scope of Practice - Licensed vocational nurses require oversight by another healthcare professional, while registered nurses can practice independently. Additionally, LVNs only perform focused assessments while RNs can perform comprehensive patient assessments. LVNs implement the plan of care that RNs develop.

  • Pay - LVN versus RN pay is a top motivator for students exploring additional education. Staff RNs make an average of $25,000 more per year than LVNs. More information on LVN and RN salaries is available at the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics. 

  • Work Setting - More LVNs work in long-term care settings than in any other setting. RNs have access to more opportunities in critical care, labor and delivery, emergency room, and other acute care settings.

  • Advancement Opportunities - While LVNs often do have opportunities to grow their careers in the long-term care setting, potential for LVNs to grow in other settings is often limited. The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services and other governing boards often require RNs in key quality and leadership roles.


Many nurses choose to pursue their RN to increase their annual earnings, improve their access to diverse and challenging roles, and open doors for advancement in their nursing careers.

LVN to RN Program

The LVN to RN Associate Degree Program at the Houston Northwest Campus of The College of Health Care Professions (CHCP) takes as few as 80 weeks—less than a year and a half to complete. That means that if you take the first step toward advancing your career and submit your application today, you could be walking across the stage in your cap and gown in less than two years!

The LVN to RN Associate Degree Program is offered in a blended learning model, which means you can take some of your courses—and portions of other courses—online from the comfort of your home. This blended program makes an AAS more accessible for non-traditional students, like those who have spouses or children at home or who are working in full-time LVN roles when they go back to school.

Admission Requirements

Are you ready to take the first step toward earning your RN degree? Here is what it takes to get in:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Transcripts from your LVN program
  • A current, active, and unencumbered Texas LVN license
  • Completion of the nursing program entrance exam and LVN to RN entrance exam
  • An admissions interview and a panel interview
  • CPR certification through the American Heart Association
  • Drug screen, background screen, physical examination, and proof of vaccinations


Once you have everything together, you can apply online in just two easy steps by visiting our Nursing page. Every step is one step closer to your dream of becoming an RN!

Paying for Your Program

Worrying about money often prevents LVNs from securing a brighter future by taking the plunge and applying for the LVN to RN degree program, but our financial aid team is here to help you find a way. Our financial aid team will review options to consider to pay for tuition. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Getting Started

Are you ready to learn more about becoming an RN? We are ready for you at our Houston Northwest campus! The team at CHCP is eager to help you get started.

If you have more questions, you can contact us and a member of our team will be in touch with you soon to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your future.