Associate in Science
Career/Technical (Major Code: 02390)

Prepares students for direct patient care in situations where they are under the supervision of physicians and/or registered nurses. A major portion of the educational experience takes place in a variety of healthcare settings. Upon successful completion of the program, the student is eligible to apply to the California Board of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians to take the examination for licensure as a vocational nurse.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

• Upon completion of the program, the student will demonstrate the ability to articulate professionally and competently in the healthcare setting on issues regarding patient care.
• Demonstrate the ability to analyze patient data related to the medical condition(s) and adjust patient care according to the findings.
• Upon completion of the program, the student will demonstrate the ability to analyze patient data related to the medical condition(s) and adjust patient care according to the findings.
• Upon completion of the program, the student will analyze, compute and correctly provide medications to the patient in the healthcare setting.
• Upon completion of the program, the student will demonstrate collegiality and appropriate communication techniques when working with diverse healthcare providers, patients and family members.
• Upon completion of the program, the student will demonstrate critical thinking skills and differentiation in plan of care for patients from various cultural backgrounds.

Math proficiency as evidenced by earning a "C" or better in MATH 119 or placement above the level of intermediate algebra through the Southwestern College multiple measures placement processes.

Align with CCCO Guided Pathways, keep on clear path to completion of AS degree and eligibility to enter the LVN to ADN Step-up Program.

COMM 103 or COMM 174.  Interpersonal Communication (3 units) must be taken as part of the General Education Requirements for Vocational Nursing.

Proficiencies required for department acceptance into this program include College-level reading and composition (ENGL 115) and Elementary Statistics (MATH 119) or equivalency.  Transfer credit shall be given for related previous education completed within the last five years, and it will be considered on a case-by-case basis (Vocational Nursing Practice Act, Article 5, Section 2535)

NOTE: Upon successful completion of the program, the student is eligible to apply to the California Board of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians to take the examination for licensure as a vocational nurse.

To earn an associate degree, additional general education and graduation requirements must be completed.