Is Becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Worth It in Your Journey to Nursing?

Many aspiring nurses find themselves in a challenging situation where traditional pathways, such as the registered nurse (RN) program, may not be feasible due to academic or personal circumstances. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a nurse but feel that you're not 'book smart,' you might be considering the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program as a more accessible option. Should you take the LVN route, or is it better to invest in a comprehensive RN program?

Understanding the LVN Program

To start, let's break down the LVN program. Enrolling at a community college often involves a readiness test that will place you in remedial or for-credit classes. After a year of studying only English and math in remedial courses, you'll be ready to take college-level courses. The LVN program includes common required courses such as Freshman Biology, Chemistry, and Anatomy and Physiology. Due to course availability, progression, and application deadlines, it typically takes three academic years to complete a community college LVN program. Importantly, by successfully completing this program, you can graduate with manageable debt.

Cost Comparisons and Program Availability

While some private programs may cost over $20,000, community college programs are often more affordable. However, it's worth noting that many private programs lack required courses, making them either insufficient or overly expensive. The failure and dropout rates in these programs are often high, leaving students with significant debt without the qualifications they need. Completing the remedial program at a community college is therefore a wise decision if needed.

Consider also the Western Governors University (WGU) as an option for an affordable and accredited RN program. WGU's curriculum is designed to be flexible and practical, giving you a strong foundation for both your nursing career and your financial well-being.

The Case for Investing in a One-Year LVN Program

Choosing to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse can be a wise decision for several reasons. Investing one year of hard work, as many say, can give you hands-on experience in a real-world nursing setting. This allows you to assess whether you truly love nursing before committing to a more extensive and possibly finance-consuming RN program. As a Licensed Vocational Nurse, you can work immediately, gaining valuable experience and earning while you continue to study for your RN qualification.

Evaluating the LVN vs. RN Programs

A Licensed Vocational Nurse is a fully qualified nurse who can work right away. The community college route often involves a two-year schedule of required courses leading to a one-year professional program. Private and for-profit programs, on the other hand, often have no required courses and can range in cost from $20,000 upwards. These programs are plagued with high failure and dropout rates, leaving many students with substantial debt without the qualifications they need.

While the LVN program is a more time-efficient option, you should consider if there are courses from your LVN program that can be transferred toward an RN program. Even if you choose to pursue the RN route, starting as an LVN can provide practical experience and a solid foundation that can make your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse smoother and more financially manageable.

In conclusion, whether to opt for an LVN program or invest in a more extensive RN program depends on your personal circumstances, financial goals, and career aspirations. Both paths offer unique advantages and challenges. By carefully weighing your options, you can make an informed decision that will pave the way for a rewarding career in nursing.

Final Thoughts

It's important to note that while the LVN program can be a valuable stepping stone, many nurses find that pursuing an RN qualification provides a broader range of opportunities and a more robust career progression. If you can, aim to complete the LVN program and then move on to the RN program. This approach can provide you with both practical experience and the academic qualifications you need to succeed in the nursing field. Always research your options and talk to current nurses to get a more in-depth understanding of what each path entails.