Help finding a bridge program or the 30 units program

[myelove74]

I need help with finding a bridge program or the 30 units program.In Southern California or could challenge or test out and so I can take the RN-NCLEX.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I doubt that you would be able to test out. Despite appearances (I am distressingly aware that there does not appear to be much difference between RN & LVN practice in many settings ) RN education actually includes a lot more didactic content as well as additional clinical responsibilities such as leadership, delegation, health care law, etc.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Although CNAs and former military medics can challenge the board to become LVNs in California, be cognizant that no state in the union will allow LPNs/LVNs to challenge the board or "test out" to become RNs.

[caliotter3]

Also be aware that most nursing schools that 'offer' the 30 unit option state the seats are available on "space available" only and there are never any spaces available with the active lists and extensive waiting lists. But, of course, you should inquire to get the latest official information on this.

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

OP: if you're a current LVN, I highly suggest not doing the "30-Unit Option" version of getting an RN license. This can impact your ability to move your license from state to state. The kind of program you want to get into is one that where you'll earn the exact same ADN degree as those students that did it the "traditional" way.

Think of it this way: you won't be a graduate of a program because you won't earn a degree if you take the 30-unit option. The school I attended also has a 30-unit program but they won't let you in until you've completed all your prerequisites for the traditional program and you've essentially met all graduation requirements. Once you're in, you take 30 units and you graduate as an ADN student, not as an LVN-RN 30-unit Option student. My classmates that were LVNs that took advantage of this are all ADN program grads. They can easily endorse to other states. The 30-unit option RNs may have significant difficulties endorsing their licenses to other states...

Since all RN programs are supposed to have LVN-RN 30 unit option programs, you could, in theory, do it through a University as well. You'd meet all the very basic requirements to write the NCLEX exam but you won't have a BSN. You might not be able to unencumber your 30-unit option license even if you get an ADN or BSN later. Only the BRN could answer that question...

So, be careful of what program type you enter.