An LVN is a licensed vocational nurse who has received their license to work under an RN or a doctor. Before receiving a license, many individuals go through a certificate program to get the necessary schooling and training for a license and career as a LVN.
Designed to align with the Texas Board of Nursing Differentiated Essential Competencies (DECs) for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN), you’ll study core concepts like pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, growth and development, and mental health, then practice skills in the lab before applying them in supervised clinical settings. The program is structured to prepare you to pursue to pursue NCLEX-PN® testing and entry-level roles as a vocational nurse under the direction of an RN or physician.
Why Choose CHCP for Vocational Nursing?
Whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey or pivoting into nursing, CHCP offers a clear, guided path—grounded in real clinical workflows and taught by experienced faculty. You’ll study nursing concepts, practice essential skills, and apply them in patient-care settings with coaching and feedback at every step.
Locations Across Texas
CHCP delivers healthcare education through campuses across Texas, as well as a dedicated online division for other programs. The Vocational Nursing Certificate Program is currently offered on campus at CHCP Houston Northwest.
Taking Your Education Further
Graduates of CHCP’s certificate programs may apply eligible credits toward advanced degrees through the CHCP Accelerate Program, creating a pathway for continued growth in healthcare education.
Accreditation & Legacy
CHCP was founded by physicians and has more than 36 years of experience in healthcare training. We are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission.
Vocational Nursing Skills & Program Outcomes
The Vocational Nursing Certificate Program is structured to help prepare students to provide safe, competent nursing care and pursue state licensure as a vocational nurse. Completion of the program qualifies graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN® examination, required for employment as an LVN in Texas. Licensure requirements are determined by the Texas Board of Nursing and are subject to change.
Training combines classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and supervised clinical experience to help you develop:
Professionalism and Communication
Instruction emphasizes professional conduct, ethical and legal responsibilities, and accountability in patient care. Students practice therapeutic communication skills that support patient trust and collaboration with healthcare teams, while learning to document care accurately and maintain confidentiality.
Clinical Skills
Hands-on training includes basic and advanced nursing procedures, such as patient assessment, vital signs monitoring, medication administration, wound care, and implementation of care plans. Clinical rotations provide opportunities to practice these skills in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare environments.
Foundational Knowledge
The curriculum integrates anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, growth and development, nutrition, and mental health nursing. These core sciences underpin safe practice and support decision-making as students progress into more advanced nursing concepts.
Preparation for Licensure
Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN® examination. Licensure is required before employment as a vocational nurse in Texas.
Vocational Nursing Career Outlook
Licensed vocational nurses, often referred to as licensed practical nurses, provide essential nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Typical responsibilities include monitoring patient conditions, administering medications, supporting treatment plans, and assisting with procedures.
LVNs are employed in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Long-term care and skilled nursing facilities
- Medical offices and clinics
- Schools
- Community and public health organizations
LVNs can advance their nursing careers by becoming a registered nurse (RN). If you decide to become an RN, we can help. We offer a bridge program specifically designed for LVNs moving to positions as RNs. Learn more about our Nursing AAS (LVN to ADN) Program.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job demand for LVNs is expected to grow on par with national averages—approximately 3% from 2024 through 2034. Wages can vary depending on location, employer, and experience. For the most current information, the BLS provides up-to-date data on wages and employment trends.
CHCP is passionate about positive impact
Statewide Job Placement Assistance
Over 95% Student Satisfaction Upon Graduation
Award-winning and Nationally Recognized Instruction
Connect with an Admissions Advisor
Take the first step toward becoming a vocational nurse by filling out a quick application online. An admissions advisor will follow up to help you understand requirements and next steps.
Admissions Process & Requirements
You bring the motivation—we’ll bring the structure. CHCP’s admissions process is designed for transparency, with built-in support from day one.
To apply for enrollment, you’ll need:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Up-to-date immunizations and vaccinations
- A current physical examination of good health
- American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR Certification
- A clean criminal record or possession of the Texas Board of Nursing Blue Card, Operations Outcome Letter, Enforcement Outcome Letter, or Eligibility Order
- A negative drug screening
- A minimum composite score of 61.7% on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) Entrance Exam
- To complete the entrance essay assigned by the campus
- An interview with the Nursing Admissions Committee
Find the Career of Your Dreams
You’re ready to do more than imagine yourself in health care—you’re ready to act. Apply today to pursue nursing training that can help prepare you with the skills, structure, and guidance to start your career.
"I cannot say enough amazing things about this school and the instructors! I graduated from the Medical Assistant Program and let me just say, no matter who my instructor was, they took the time and effort to make sure we understood exactly what was being taught."
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Vocational Nursing Certificate Program
Is LVN a certificate or degree?
How long is the LVN program?
LVN program length can vary depending on the program. CHCP's Vocational Nursing Certificate Program consists of three modules that can be completed in as few as 48 weeks!
How to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse?
To become a licensed vocational nurse you must enroll in and complete a LVN Program. CHCP's Vocational Nurse Certificate Program prepares students to care for patients in both short and long-term care facilities. After completing the program, the next step to becoming an LVN is receiving your license. To obtain a license you must take and pass the NCLEX-PN® exam and meet the license requirements of your state's nursing board.
How to become a Vocational Nurse?
To become a vocational nurse, you first need to enroll in a VN program. Once you meet the enrollment requirements of the program, you can begin your training and education toward a career as a VN. CHCP's program at the Houston Northwest campus combines training in both the hard and soft skills you need to care and assist for patients. After completing a vocational nurse program, the next step is to apply for a license. This license is needed to be able to practice as a vocational nurse.
What is vocational nursing?
Vocational Nursing, also known as Licensed Vocational Nursing, is a nursing specialty that focuses on providing basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians. Within their role, vocational nurses assist in administering medications, monitoring vital signs, providing wound care, and collecting patient data.
What does a vocational nurse do?
A vocational nurse works in a variety of healthcare settings including, hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, physician offices, and home healthcare. They work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or doctor to assist patients with fundamental hygiene, monitor vital signs, and offer initial nursing care.
What does LVN stand for?
LVN stands for Licensed Vocational Nurse, also known as a vocation nurse or LPN. They work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians, providing basic nursing care and support to patients in various healthcare settings.
How long does it take to become an LVN?
The time it takes to become an LVN depends on the program length and your individual schedule and timeline. CHCP's Vocational Nursing Certificate Program can be completed in as short as 11 months! After graduating from the program, students then will need to take and pass the NCLEX-PN® exam to receive their license.
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