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LVNs, or licensed vocational nurses, are responsible for basic patient care. Known as licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in nearly all other U.S. states, these healthcare professionals typically work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or doctor to care for sick and injured patients.
Vocational nursing is well suited for empathetic, patient, and hardworking students. In this guide, we rank the best LVN programs in Texas and discuss why you should consider a Texas school.
How Do LVN Programs in Texas Work?
Most LVN programs in Texas are fairly easy to get into. You can normally find LVN programs at community colleges and vocational schools.
You'll need a high school diploma or GED certificate to apply. Online programs are very similar to on-campus LVN programs in that they both typically require real-world practice in the form of clinicals.
In order to receive your practical nursing license, you must pass all coursework with at least a C, in addition to taking and passing the NCLEX-PN, a standardized nursing test. This exam tests your knowledge of various practical nursing concepts.
Licenses are valid for two years. LVNs must complete 20 hours of continuing education in that time period.
Did You Know?
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The top 10% of LVN/LPN earners made over $63,790 a year in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). -
Job growth is steady — the BLS projects a 6% growth in jobs for LVNs/LPNs between 2021 and 2031. -
LVNs in California are the best paid, earning a mean annual salary of $65,140. -
Independent nursing regulations in Texas dating back to the turn of the 20th century are why Texas nurses are called LVNs instead of LPNs.
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Top LVN Programs in Texas
Read About Our Methodology Here
#1 Best LVN Programs in Texas
Lee College
Baytown, TX - 2 years
- Campus
Lee College offers a high-quality vocational nursing program at its Baytown campus. The program helps candidates obtain a foundational understanding of the field that allows them to pursue entry-level careers. Graduates may also continue their studies, earning an associate or bachelor's degree.
Enrollees develop specialized, career-focused skills. Students forego general education in order to focus on the practical skills necessary for working in nursing. Learners may be able to take advantage of online enrollment options if they are working full time.
Students can take advantage of institutional resources like library access, academic advising, and financial aid. Free tutoring through the college's writing center is also available.
Lee College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 49
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 56%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 4%
#2 Best LVN Programs in Texas
College of the Mainland
Texas City, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
College of the Mainland offers a high-quality LVN-to-RN program to learners in Texas City. Enrollees benefit from a broad introduction to the field, preparing them for entry-level jobs. Some graduates go on to further their education.
The program highlights specialized skills with a professional focus. Students learn specific skills for the workplace rather than meet general education requirements. Online enrollment may make it possible for full-time workers to complete the program.
Institutional resources are available to students, including library access, academic advising, and financial aid. Free tutoring is also available through the college's writing center.
College of the Mainland at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 28
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 58%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 4%
#3 Best LVN Programs in Texas
San Jacinto Community College
Pasadena, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners looking for a quality vocational nursing program should consider San Jacinto Community College in Pasadena. Students who enroll in the program gain a basic understanding of the field needed for entry-level positions. Many graduates also choose to further their training in through associate or bachelor's degrees.
Learners develop specialized, career-focused skills. Rather than taking general education classes, participants build practical knowledge directly related to employment in the field. Candidates may have access to online enrollment options, allowing them to work full time while in the program.
The institution offers on-campus and online resources to enrollees. Services in academic assistance, financial aid, and library access are all commonly available. Students can also take advantage of free tutoring from the college's writing center.
San Jacinto Community College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 90
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 51%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 3%
#4 Best LVN Programs in Texas
Amarillo College
Amarillo, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners looking for a top-ranked vocational nursing program should consider Amarillo College in Amarillo. Enrollees gain a basic understanding of the field needed for entry-level positions. Graduates often choose to pursue further education in associate or bachelor's programs.
The vocational nursing features a curriculum that develops specialized skills with a professional focus. Rather than taking general education classes, participants build practical knowledge directly related to employment in the nursing field. Degree-seekers may have access to online enrollment options, allowing them to work full time while in the program.
Learners can take advantage of many institutional resources, including academic counseling, financial aid services, and library access. The college's writing center offers free tutoring.
Amarillo College at a Glance:
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Certificate Programs: 61
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 72%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 14%
Why Accreditation Matters for LVN Programs in Texas
When choosing an LVN program, be sure to look for accredited schools. Institutional accreditation ensures that institutions meet certain standards of academic quality.
When it comes to on-campus and online LVN programs in Texas, the best schools will be accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Individual LVN programs should be accredited, too. As you research LVN programs, look for ones that have been accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
What Courses Do You Take in an LVN Program?
LVN programs typically comprise a combination of theory classes, lab simulations, and hands-on clinical experiences. In these courses, you'll gain ethically informed problem-solving skills and explore the foundations of specialized medical care.
Through clinical rounds, you'll apply your classroom knowledge under the supervision of RNs and doctors.
Here are some common courses you may take in an LVN program:
- Basic nursing skills
- Essentials of medical administration
- Geriatrics
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Nutrition
- Pediatrics
- Pharmacology
- Psychology
What Is the Current LVN Salary in Texas?
LVNs in Texas earned a median salary of $48,520 per year in May 2021, according to the BLS. This is right around the median annual salary for LPNs in the U.S. as a whole.
Most LVNs work in nursing and residential care facilities, but they can also work in hospitals, schools, and private practices.
An LVN program can even help you advance your nursing career. For example, after finishing an LVN program, you might decide to become an RN. Enrolling in an LPN-to-RN bridge program or an LPN-to-BSN program can shorten the time and cost of a four-year degree.
Popular Optional LVN Certifications
While postgraduate LVN certifications aren't necessary to practice as an LVN, they can be a great way to advance your career while increasing your salary potential and expertise.
Some postgraduate LVN certifications require you to have been a vocational nurse for a certain amount of time before you can take courses or exams to earn them.
Here are some examples of optional LVN certifications you can get:
- Basic Life Support
- Certified Clinical Research Associate
- Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse
- Certified Lactation Counselor
- IV Therapy
- Long-Term Care
- Nephrology
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support
- Pharmacology
- Wound Care
Frequently Asked Questions About LVN Programs and Jobs
To become an LVN in Texas, you need to get a vocational nursing license. This license requires you to have completed an accredited LVN program, passing all courses with a C or higher. You must also pass the NCLEX-PN.
Note that LVN programs require a GED or high school diploma. Additionally, you must complete all license renewal requirements, such as continuing education credits, to keep your license valid.
It typically takes about two years to become an LVN in Texas. This includes 1-2 years of coursework in an accredited LVN program and time to prepare for and take the NCLEX-PN. You may be able to become an LVN in less time if you opt for an accelerated program.
LVNs in Texas make $50,220 on average, according to the BLS. This is just above the national median salary of $48,070 for LVNs/LPNs in the United States.
Although the nursing profession as a whole is in demand, LVNs are experiencing about average demand nationwide. Job growth for LVNs remains steady, with a projected 6% increase in jobs between 2021 and 2031, according to the BLS.
While it can be hard being an LVN working long hours and in high-stress environments, it can also be very rewarding. LVNs help patients manage illnesses and recover from injuries and health conditions, providing comfort during dark times.
As an LVN, you'll likely develop close relationships with your patients and team, giving you a great sense of pride and personal fulfillment.
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