/129x0:1071x530/prod01/channel_4/media/hccsedu/content-assets/images/programs-amp-courses/explore-all-programs/nursing/AOS_NursingLarge.jpg)
Nursing
Houston City College’s nursing programs provide hands-on training, supportive instruction, and clinical experience to help you start a meaningful healthcare career and meet the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals.
- Career Path
- Health Sciences
/1x0:419x418/prod01/channel_4/media/hccsedu/content-assets/images/programs-amp-courses/explore-all-programs/nursing/DanielBertalot_LVN.png)
Meet Daniel Bertalot
- Licensed Vocational Nursing
- Class of 2022
- Where Passion Meets Care
- “I chose this program because I wanted a meaningful and rewarding career in healthcare.”
Programs
Licensed Vocational Nursing, C2
The LVN C2 Program prepares students to provide safe, compassionate, and evidence-based nursing care under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals including the registered nurse (RN). Through classroom instruction, skills labs, simulation, and clinical experiences, students develop clinical judgment, technical skills, communication, teamwork, and professional nursing behaviors. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination
This program at Houston City College use a selective admissions process and requires an additional application beyond applying and requires an additional application beyond applying.
When the number of eligible applications exceeds program seat availability, selective criteria are used to determine which applicants are offered admission.
Enrollment is limited, and not all qualified applicants may be offered placement. Please review the admission dates below carefully to ensure you complete all required steps by the required deadlines.
Applicants can not apply to CNA to LVN Transition AND Licensed Vocational Nursing (They must choose only one)
| Term | Immunizations and Clinical Requirements Deadline in Verified Credentials | HESI Deadline | Applications Accepted |
Drug Screening and TBON Submission Deadline in Verified Credentials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring: January 2027 |
July 31, 2026 |
July 31, 2026
|
May 4, 2026 - July 31, 2026 |
September 25, 2026 |
|
Fall: August 2026 |
April 17, 2026 |
March 31, 2026 |
Nov. 10, 2025 - April 9, 2026 |
May 22, 2026 |
On average, approximately 300 students apply for admission each application period. The program's capacity is 75-150 students.
Please note that HESI exam results taken at Houston City College (HCC) are typically available the same day the exam is completed.
For applicants who take the HESI at another institution, scores may take up to 14 business days to be received and processed by HCC. Please be aware that HCC is not responsible for delays in the transmission of scores from external testing locations.
We encourage applicants who test at another institution to plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for scores to be received before application deadlines.
Learn more about the program by completing attending information session
Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisite Courses GPA: Minimum Prerequisite and overall GPA - 2.0 or higher
Completion of the following courses with a minimum grade of ‘C’ or higher upon application deadline (students may be enrolled in the prerequisite course the semester prior to program entry, but the student must apply to the program, pass the HESI Exam with a 70% or higher on or before the deadline). The transcript(s) for non-HCC students must be emailed immediately upon grades being posted. The courses below must be completed within five years of the application deadline.
| Course Description | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
|
BIOL 1322 Nutrition and Diet Therapy The following courses can be substituted: VNSG 1216 Nutrition (accepted until Spring 2029) |
3 |
|
BIOL 2301 and BIOL 2101 Anatomy and Physiology I (LEC/LAB) The following courses can be substituted: VNSG 1320 Anatomy and Physiology for Allied Health (accepted until Spring 2029) If you have not completed ENGL 1301, then you must co-enroll in ENGL 1301 to complete BIOL 2301 and BIOL 2101. |
4 |
|
OR The following courses can be substituted for BIOL 2301/2101: VNSG 1320 Anatomy and Physiology for Allied Health |
3 |
Recommended Courses for the LVN Program
- MDCA 1313 Medical Terminology
- HPRS 1201 Introduction to Health Professions
- BIOL 2302 and BIOL 2102 Anatomy and Physiology II (LEC/LAB)
Highly Recommended Courses for LVN to ADN Transition Program
Graduates of the Vocational Nursing Program interested in applying to the LVN to ADN Transition Program must complete the following prerequisites:
- RNSG 1301 Pharmacology (VNSG 1227 can be substituted for this course.)
- ENGL 1301 Composition I
- MATH 1314 College Algebra
HESI-A2 Pre-Entrance Exam
The HESI-A2 entrance exam is required to apply to Nursing programs at HCC Coleman. The HESI-A2 Exam is $75.00 per attempt. Students who complete the HESI test outside of HCC are required to order an official test transcript from Evolve to be sent to HCC Coleman electronically to admissions@hccs.edu. The HESI transcript request is $15.00, payable by the applicant. Select “Houston City College of Health Sciences Coleman”. It can take up to 14 business days for processing. Scores MUST arrive by the HESI test deadline date, so plan accordingly.
Please contact HCC Coleman College Testing Center via email at coleman.testing@hccs.edu to schedule your HESI exam. Please note there are no exceptions or substitutions for the HESI-A2 Pre-Entrance Exam.
Applicant must score 70% or higher on each of the following subject areas:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Grammar
- Math
- Reading
- Critical Thinking Score - 700 or higher
- Learning Style - the Learning Style section is required but will not be used in determining admissions.
Payment of $75.00 must be made by either credit or debit card.
HESI-A2 Entrance Exam results must be taken between this period:
- Spring 2027 - Scores are valid from July 31, 2024, to July 31, 2026
- Fall 2027- Scores will be valid from April 9, 2025- April 9, 2027.
The applicant may retake the unsatisfactory section(s) not to exceed a total of two attempts for the application period.
The applicant is allowed TWO ATTEMPTS to test per application period and must PAY for BOTH ATTEMPTS. If the applicant fails to get the required scores on BOTH ATTEMPTS, they must wait until the next application period opens and the New Admissions Guide is posted TO RETEST. During the application period, it is recommended to wait at least 60 days before retesting.
Please note that HESI official scoring sheets must be downloaded directly from the Elsevier/Evolve website in a .pdf format - No exceptions.
HESI Remediation through Elsevier is FREE.
Additional HESI Resources:
- How to access your HESI exam scores, including critical thinking scores
- Resources for HESI study materials
Immunizations and Other Health Requirements
Students must complete and upload the following documentation to scholar.verifiedcredentials.com/hcc by the specified deadline. A required fee of $20.00 to Verified Credentials for access to the site.
How it works:
- To get started, go to: scholar.verifiedcredentials.com/hcc (for best results - use a laptop or desktop computer)
- Enter your code
- Additional Requirements – LVN Program: CCTDG-28332
- Create account
- Review required information
- Enter information
- Supply official documentation
If you need assistance with Verified Credentials, call 1-800-938-6090 or email consumersupport@verifiedcredentials.com.
Proof of the following (Please note that titers are blood work that is drawn to determine your immunity status; a titer is NOT the vaccine):
- Hepatitis B Positive Titer (within five years)
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and a Positive Titer for each (within five years)
- Varicella Positive Titer (within five years)
- Please note: If your hepatitis B, varicella, or MMR titers are negative, you will need to contact your physician/practitioner for vaccine recommendations. A repeat titer will be required after additional vaccines to determine immunity.
- Tuberculosis (TB) skin test or blood test. If the results are positive, a chest x-ray (repeated every two years) is required. TB tests are only good for one year and will need to be repeated before the one-year expiration date and uploaded into Verified Credentials.c
- Tetanus (Tdap) – valid for 10 years (per the Center for Disease Control – CDC)
- Influenza (seasonal flu shot) must be for the CURRENT season; therefore, it must be taken no earlier than August 1.
- Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine (Meningitis) is required for students aged 22 or younger. View more information regarding the bacterial meningitis vaccination.
- Proof of health insurance: The student’s name must be on the card. – Proof of personal health insurance: If you need to purchase health insurance, please visit the student health insurance page for a list of health care insurance providers that HCC has compiled as a courtesy to students who wish to contact a potential provider to meet their personal health insurance needs. Students are advised to contact more than one company and compare offerings. Please note that the Harris County Gold Card and Legacy Health Clinic are not acceptable for this purpose.
- Current 2-year American Heart Association (AHA), Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR Card (course must follow AHA guidelines): Cards will not be accepted from any other source besides AHA: Cards will not be accepted from any other source besides AHA.
- Physical Examination Form (found on Verified Credentials) completed and signed by the physician. A physical examination is required and must be within one year before the start of the term. Once the form is complete, please upload the form back to Complio. The form is found under the Physical Exam category.
If You Are Offered Admissions
Once the student has met the minimum requirements and received acceptance from the college, the following requirements must also be met for acceptance into the nursing program:
- Please note that once you meet the initial application requirements, your information is automatically submitted to the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON) for a criminal background check. TBON will issue either a Blue Card or an Outcome/Approval Letter. If you receive a Blue Card, upload clear images of both the front and back to Verified Credentials under Nursing Board Clearance. If you receive an Outcome/Approval Letter, upload all pages of the letter under the same requirement. Please keep the original document for your records.
- Also note that the card (or letter) is only good for ONE year (the date is the postmark date on the front of the card). If a student has an older clearance card or letter, their names will be resubmitted by the nursing department.
- Drug screen - You will receive an email with instructions to complete the drug screen - Order your 10 Panel Drug Screening through Verified Credentials by the specified deadline given in the email. The cost is $40.81.
- Influenza (seasonal). Flu shots must be taken after August 1 but before the first day of class for Fall and between August 1 – September 7 for Spring.
- If you miss the drug screen deadline, you will no longer be considered for the current application period and will need to reapply during the next application period.
- Attend the mandatory In-Person Orientation on the dates provided in your admission email. You will be notified of the orientation date. Fall orientation will be held in July, and Spring orientation will be held in December.
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is conditionally approved by the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON).
The Texas Board of Nursing
333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460
Austin, TX 78701-3944
(512) 305.7401
www.bne.state.tx.us
The HCC Licensed Vocational Nursing program graduates are licensed by the Texas Board of Nursing.
The Texas Board of Nursing offers resources to assist nurses with primary multistate licensure outside of Texas who choose to practice in Texas using compact privilege to understand the Texas Nursing Practice Act.
The new enhanced licensure compact, or eNLC, is the licensure model that allows registered nurses (RNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) to have one multistate license, with the privilege to practice in the home state and in other eNLC states physically, electronically, and/or telephonically. It replaces the original nurse licensure compact (NLC) and adds extra safeguards that maintain public protection at the state level.
Visit the new enhanced Licensure Compact (NLC) .
Please note, every attempt is made to ensure the above information is accurate and up to date; however, some information is subject to change.
If you have any questions or encounter problems contacting the appropriate licensing board, please contact the Nursing Department at 713-718-8070.
2024-2025 Third-Party Licensure/Certification Exam Results
Occupational licensure and/or certification pass rates reported by academic calendar year (Sept. 1–Aug. 31). Results for the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years are provided for comparison.
| Program/Aligned Award | Agency Standard | HCC Standard | 2022-2023 Pass Rate (#Passed) | 2023-2024 Pass Rate (#Passed) | 2024-2025 Pass Rate (#Passed) | 2024-2025 Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Vocational Nursing C2 | 80% | 80% | 100% (8) | 85% (46) | 98% (120) | Above Expectations |
| Certification Name | TEA Resource Link | Certification Agency Website |
|---|---|---|
|
Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) |
Texas Board of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) |
h4>Psychomotor Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Gross Motor | Move within confined spaces (e.g., hang solution IV poles). Sit and maintain balance. Stand and maintain balance. Reach above shoulders and below waist (e.g., connect an electrical appliance to a wall outlet). Stoop and squat (e.g., assist patients/clients with daily living activities). Squeeze with hands (e.g., operate a fire extinguisher). |
| Fine Motor | Squeeze with fingers (e.g., calibrate equipment). Pick up, grasp, and twist small objects (e.g., withdraw solution using a syringe). Use writing utensils (e.g., record numbers in records/charts; document clearly and correctly on patient/client medical records for legal documentation). Key/type and otherwise operate common desktop computer accessories. |
| Physical Strength & Endurance | Sustain repetitive movement (e.g., perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and physical assessment). Complete an entire assigned shift (e.g., 8-12 hours). Push and pull a minimum of 50 pounds (e.g., positioning and transferring patients/clients). Lift a minimum of 25 pounds (e.g., providing physical assistance when ambulating a patient/client). |
| Mobility | Maneuver in small spaces. Move independently. Respond rapidly to emergencies. |
Cognitive Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Critical & Analytical Thinking |
Perform dosage calculations in a timely manner (e.g., 10-60 minutes in non-emergency; 2- 3 minutes in an emergency). Convert numbers to and/or from the Metric System. Add, subtract, multiply, and/or divide whole numbers. Compute fractions (e.g., medication dosages) both manually and with a calculator. Transfer knowledge from one situation to another using long-term and short-term memory (e.g., assimilate and apply knowledge acquired from multiple learning experiences). Prioritize tasks and evaluate outcomes (e.g., handling multiple tasks and problem-solve simultaneously). Synthesize knowledge and skills (e.g., analyze assessment data in determining nursing diagnoses while participating in planning and modifying of nursing care plan). Sequence information and prioritize tasks (e.g., recall recent and remote information, including steps of a task/skill). Identify cause-and-effect type relationships (e.g., comprehend and apply abstract concepts). Utilize computer programs for electronic medical records and educational testing purposes (e.g., unit exams, quizzes, and standardized tests, including HESI, NLN, ATI, etc., are computer-based). |
| Safety | Perceive and appropriately respond to alarms and emergency signals (e.g., monitors, fire alarms, hospital codes, call bells, etc.). Abide by safety policies and procedures in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical facility settings. |
Sensory Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Observation | Observe and recognize objects up to 20 inches away (e.g., access patient/client information on computer screens, recognize very fine print on medication labels, monitor strips, equipment calibrations, syringes, etc.). Perceive depth in the surrounding environment (e.g., prepare a correct quantity of medication). Peripheral color distinction (e.g., distinguish a change in skin integrity, breathing patterns, and color intensity, such as the ability to identify cyanosis; identify allergic responses such as skin rashes). |
| Perception |
Perceive vibrations and differences in sizes, shapes, and surface characteristics (e.g., palpate pulses and veins, identify body landmarks, and check for drafts). Detect temperature changes (e.g., skin temperature). Recognize a range of tones (e.g., assess the placement of tubes, faint body sounds, patient/client reports, faint voices, blood pressure sounds). Recognize interpersonal communication in situations when faces are partially covered (e.g., lips are covered by a face mask). Detect and distinguish odors from patient/client versus environment (e.g., detect foul-smelling drainage, alcohol breath, etc., versus detection of smoke; detect gases or noxious smells). |
| Interpretation | Recognize and understand content printed in English (e.g., policies, protocols, standards of care). Recognize and understand measurement marks and graphs (e.g., measurement tapes, scales, thermometers, etc.). Interpret digital displays. |
Social-Behavioral Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Communication |
Communicate with patients’/clients’ family members and health care providers regarding the individual’s plan of care. Teach, instruct, and explain procedures (e.g., patient/client/family about health care). Provide status reports (e.g., report on the condition of the patient/client to others). Direct activities of others. Clarify the meaning of nonverbal communication. Convey information through writing using proper communication techniques (e.g., correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling) in printed and typed correspondence. Correspond via telephone using proper technique and etiquette. Influence people (e.g., use physical touch as a therapeutic nonverbal intervention). |
| Adaptability | Adapt effectively to changing environments and increasing tension levels in a variety of situations. Demonstrate flexibility and learn to function in the face of uncertainties and ambiguities inherent in the clinical problems of many patients/clients. |
| Emotional Stability | Establish therapeutic boundaries (e.g., provide patients/clients with emotional support; monitor and appropriately regulate own emotions without prompting from others). Carry out responsibilities that can often be taxing and stressful, and function effectively under stress (e.g., stressful issues can include human suffering, threats to personal safety, conflict, disagreements, and the need for collaboration and working as a member of the healthcare team). Focus sustained attention and concentration on tasks (e.g., perform multiple responsibilities concurrently). Recognize constructive criticism and performance feedback as avenues for improvement. |
| Interpersonal Skills |
Negotiate interpersonal conflict (e.g., consult, negotiate, share, etc., as a member of an interdisciplinary team). Respect differences in patients/clients and peers (e.g., participate in partnered and group efforts in the classroom and clinical learning activities). Establish rapport with patients/clients and co-workers (e.g., practice in a manner that is non-judgmental and non-discriminatory). Demonstrate cultural sensitivity (e.g., interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, intellectual, and cultural backgrounds). Develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with healthcare team members and patients/clients. |
| Ethics & Professionalism | Seek supervision and consultation in a timely manner before performing any activity or procedure in which the provider feels unprepared or unsure. Present self to the public, coworkers, patients/clients, families, administration, faculty, and all others in a polite and respectful manner at all times. Protect patients’/clients’ privacy and confidential information (e.g., adhere to HIPAA restrictions). |
Licensed Vocational Nursing
- Duration
- 3 semester (full time)
- Program Format
-
- In-Person
- Campus Location
- Total Minimum Credits: 48
-
View the Licensed Vocational Nursing, C2 to see the total credit hours required.
- Cost
-
Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.
Allied Health - Vocational Nursing - Specialization, A.A.S.
The Associate of Applied Science-Allied Health Specialization is a career path for persons who have completed the following certificate programs: Dental Assisting, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Surgical Technology and Vocational Nursing. The 60 credit hour degrees for these programs are designed for health science professionals in these areas to meet continuing education goals and to attain possible promotion from entry-level to advanced level clinical posts.
Students may earn one Associate of Applied Science in one of the Allied Health specializations by completing the requirements for the chosen specialization.
- Duration
- 2 years (full time)
- Program Format
-
- In-Person
- Hybrid
- Campus Location
- Total Minimum Credits: 60
-
View the Allied Health - Vocational Nursing - Specialization, A.A.S. degree plan to see the total credit hours required.
- Cost
-
Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Costs calculator to estimate tuition.
LVN Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, A.A.S.
HCC offers an optional route to the AAS Nursing Degree via the LVN-to-RN transition program. To apply for the program, students must have graduated from an accredited LVN program and meet all requirements for entry into the AAS Nursing program including criminal background checks. Students are encouraged to have at least six months of recent full time clinical experience within the last year.
This program at Houston City College use a selective admissions process and requires an additional application beyond applying and requires an additional application beyond applying.
Enrollment is limited, and not all qualified applicants may be offered placement. Please review the admission dates below carefully to ensure you complete all required steps by the required deadlines.
When the number of eligible applications exceeds program seat availability, selective criteria are used to determine which applicants are offered admission.
| Term | Immunizations and Clinical Requirements Deadline in Verified Credentials | HESI Deadline | Application Accepted | Drug Screening and TBON Submission Deadline in Verified Credentials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Spring: January 2027 |
July 31, 2026 |
July 31, 2026 |
May 4, 2026 - July 31, 2026 |
September 25, 2026 |
|
Fall: August 2026 |
April 17, 2026 |
March 31, 2026 |
Nov. 10, 2025 - April 9, 2026 |
May 22, 2026 |
On average, up to 100 students apply for admission each application period. The program's capacity is 30 students.
Please note that HESI exam results taken at Houston City College (HCC) are typically available the same day the exam is completed.
For applicants who take the HESI at another institution, scores may take up to 14 business days to be received and processed by HCC. Please be aware that HCC is not responsible for delays in the transmission of scores from external testing locations.
We encourage applicants who test at another institution to plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for scores to be received before application deadlines.
Learn more about the program by attending an information session.
Prerequisite Courses
Completion of the following courses with a minimum grade of 'C" before the start of the program.
All prerequisite courses must be completed before the start of the program.
The transcript for non-HCC students must be emailed to admissions@hccs.edu immediately upon grades being posted.
Note: All biology courses must be completed within seven (7) years of the start of the program. Biology courses completed past seven years will need to be retaken.
Prerequisite Courses GPA: Minimum Prerequisite and overall GPA: 2.7 or higher
| Course Description | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| * BIOL 2301 and BIOL 2101 Anatomy and Physiology I (LEC/LAB) | 4 |
| * BIOL 2302 and BIOL 2102 Anatomy and Physiology II (LEC/LAB) | 4 |
| * BIOL 2320 and BIOL 2120 Microbiology for Non-Science Majors (LEC/LAB) | 4 |
| MATH 1314 College Algebra | 3 |
| ENGL 1301 – English Composition I | 3 |
| PSYC 2301 - General Psychology | 3 |
HESI-A2 Pre-Entrance Exam
- The HESI-A2 Exam is $75.00 per attempt. Payment of $75.00 must be made by either credit or debit card.
- Students who complete the HESI test outside of HCC are required to order an official test transcript from Evolve to be sent to HCC Coleman electronically to admissions@hccs.edu.
- The HESI transcript request is $15.00, payable by the applicant.
- Select “Houston City College of Health Sciences Coleman”. Allow 14 business days for processing. Scores MUST arrive by the application deadline, so plan accordingly.
Please contact HCC Coleman College Testing Center via email at coleman.testing@hccs.edu to schedule your HESI exam. Please note there are no exceptions or substitutions for the HESI-A2 Pre-Entrance Exam.
Applicant must score a Minimum of 80% or higher on each of the following subject areas:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
- Math
- Reading
- Biology
- Learning Style - indicate your learning style per HESI assessment.
- Personality Style - indicate your personality style per HESI assessment.
HESI-A2 Pre-Entrance Exam must be taken between this period:
- Spring 2027 - Scores are valid from July 31, 2024, to July 31, 2026.
- Fall 2027- Scores will be valid from April 9, 2025- April 9, 2027.
The applicant may retake the unsatisfactory section(s).
The applicant is allowed TWO ATTEMPTS to test per application period and must PAY for BOTH ATTEMPTS. If the applicant fails to get the required scores on BOTH ATTEMPTS, they must wait until the next application period opens and the New Admissions Guide is posted TO RETEST. During the application period, it is recommended to wait at least 60 days before retesting.
Please note that HESI official scores must be downloaded directly from the Elsevier/Evolve website in a .pdf format - No exceptions.
HESI Remediation through Elsevier is FREE.
Additional HESI Resources:
- How to access your HESI exam scores, including critical thinking scores
- Resources for HESI study materials
Immunizations and Other Health Requirements
Students must complete and upload the following documentation to scholar.verifiedcredentials.com/hcc by the specified deadline. A required fee of $20 must be made directly to Verified Credentials for access to the site.
How it works:
- To get started, go to: scholar.verifiedcredentials.com/hcc (for best results - use a laptop or desktop computer)
- Enter your code
- Additional Requirements – LVN to ADN Program: PPFFW-73389
- Create account
- Review required information
- Enter information
- Supply official documentation
If you need assistance with Verified Credentials, call 1-800-938-6090 or email consumersupport@verifiedcredentials.com.
Proof of the following (Please note that titers are blood work that is drawn to determine your immunity status; a titer is NOT the vaccine):
- Hepatitis B Positive Titer (within five years)
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and a Positive Titer for each (within five years)
- Varicella Positive Titer (within five years)
- Please note: If your hepatitis B, varicella, or MMR titers are negative, you will need to contact your physician/practitioner for vaccine recommendations. A repeat titer will be required after additional vaccines to determine immunity.
- Tuberculosis (TB) skin test or blood test If the results are positive, a chest x-ray (repeated every two years) is required. If the results are positive, a chest x-ray (repeated every two years) is required. TB tests are only good for one year and will need to be repeated before the one-year expiration date and uploaded into Verified Credentials.
- Tetanus (Tdap) – valid for 10 years (per the Center for Disease Control – CDC)
- Influenza (seasonal flu shot) must be for the CURRENT season; therefore, it must be taken no earlier than August 1 for Fall admissions and between August 1 – October 1 for Spring admissions.
- Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine (Meningitis) is required for students aged 22 or younger. View more information regarding the bacterial meningitis vaccination.
- Proof of health insurance: The student’s name must be on the card. – Proof of personal health insurance: If you need to purchase health insurance, please visit the student health insurance page for a list of health care insurance providers that HCC has compiled as a courtesy to students who wish to contact a potential provider to meet their personal health insurance needs. Students are advised to contact more than one company and compare offerings. Please note that the Harris County Gold Card and Legacy Health Clinic are not acceptable for this purpose.
- Current 2-year American Heart Association (AHA), Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR Card (course must follow AHA guidelines): Cards will not be accepted from any other source besides AHA: Cards will not be accepted from any other source besides AHA.
- Physical Examination Form (found on Verified Credentials) completed and signed by the physician. A physical examination is required and must be within one year before the start of the term. Once the form is complete, please upload the form back to Verified Credentials. The form is found under the Physical Exam category.
If You Are Offered Admission
Once the student has met the minimum requirements and received acceptance from the college, the following requirements must also be met for acceptance into the nursing program:
- Please note that once you meet the initial application requirements, your information is automatically submitted to the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON) for a criminal background check. TBON will issue either a Blue Card or an Outcome/Approval Letter. If you receive a Blue Card, upload clear images of both the front and back to Verified Credentials under Nursing Board Clearance. If you receive an Outcome/Approval Letter, upload all pages of the letter under the same requirement. Please keep the original document for your records.
- Also note that the card (or letter) is only good for ONE year (the date is the postmark date on the front of the card). If a student has an older clearance card or letter, their names will be resubmitted by the nursing department.
- Drug screen - You will receive an email with instructions to complete the drug screen - Order your 10 Panel Drug Screening through Verified Credentials by the specified deadline given in the email. The cost is $40.81.
- Influenza (seasonal). Flu shots must be taken after August 1 but before the first day of class for Fall and between August 1 – September 7 for Spring.
- If you miss the drug screen deadline, you will no longer be considered for the current application period and will need to reapply during the next application period.
- Attend the mandatory In-Person Orientation on the dates provided in your admission email. You will be notified of the orientation date. Fall orientation will be held in July, and Spring orientation will be held in December.
Clinical Requirements for Program Progression & Completion
To ensure timely progression and graduation, students should carefully review all program and clinical requirements before accepting admission into a Health Sciences program. Clinical placement is contingent upon meeting the requirements of HCC's affiliated healthcare facilities, which may include background checks, drug screens, health testing, immunizations, and other compliance measures.
Students must provide documentation showing they meet all clinical requirements established by the healthcare facility. While HCC will make reasonable efforts to place students who are unable to meet certain immunization requirements, clinical placement cannot be guaranteed. Failure to meet a clinical site's requirements may delay or prevent clinical placement, progression in the program, and graduation.
Students with questions regarding clinical requirements or placement should contact their Program Director for additional information.
HB 1508 requires the following information be given to students:
This program may lead to an occupational license for which a prior criminal history may make a student ineligible. For more information please visit: HB 1508 Licensing Requirements.
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is conditionally approved by the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON).
The Texas Board of Nursing
333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460
Austin, TX 78701-3944
(512) 305-7401
www.bne.state.tx.us
Students will be able to upon graduation from the program (Consistent with rule 215.9):
-
Associate Degree Nursing Graduates first-time NCLEX pass rates will be at or above the required 80%, per the TBON rule 215.4(c)(2)
-
Program completion: Student retention will be 70% or higher within 150% of the time from entry into the program.
-
Program Satisfaction: 80% of the graduates will report satisfaction (3.0 or above mean rating on Associate Degree Graduate exit survey) with the preparation for nursing practice provided by the program.
-
Employer satisfaction: 80% of employers of graduates will report satisfaction (3.0 or above mean rating on employer survey) with the competency of graduates as defined by the student learning outcomes and graduate competencies. Job placements: 80% or more graduates will be employed within six months of the program completion as Registered Nurses.
Psychomotor Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Gross Motor | Move within confined spaces (e.g., hang solution IV poles). Sit and maintain balance. Stand and maintain balance. Reach above shoulders and below waist (e.g., connect an electrical appliance to a wall outlet). Stoop and squat (e.g., assist patients/clients with daily living activities). Squeeze with hands (e.g., operate a fire extinguisher). |
| Fine Motor | Squeeze with fingers (e.g., calibrate equipment). Pick up, grasp, and twist small objects (e.g., withdraw solution using a syringe). Use writing utensils (e.g., record numbers in records/charts; document clearly and correctly on patient/client medical records for legal documentation). Key/type and otherwise operate common desktop computer accessories. |
| Physical Strength & Endurance | Sustain repetitive movement (e.g., perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and physical assessment). Complete an entire assigned shift (e.g., 8-12 hours). Push and pull a minimum of 50 pounds (e.g., positioning and transferring patients/clients). Lift a minimum of 25 pounds (e.g., providing physical assistance when ambulating a patient/client). |
| Mobility | Maneuver in small spaces. Move independently. Respond rapidly to emergencies. |
Cognitive Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Critical & Analytical Thinking |
Perform dosage calculations in a timely manner (e.g., 10-60 minutes in non-emergency; 2- 3 minutes in an emergency). Convert numbers to and/or from the Metric System. Add, subtract, multiply, and/or divide whole numbers. Compute fractions (e.g., medication dosages) both manually and with a calculator. Transfer knowledge from one situation to another using long-term and short-term memory (e.g., assimilate and apply knowledge acquired from multiple learning experiences). Prioritize tasks and evaluate outcomes (e.g., handling multiple tasks and problem-solve simultaneously). Synthesize knowledge and skills (e.g., analyze assessment data in determining nursing diagnoses while participating in planning and modifying of nursing care plan). Sequence information and prioritize tasks (e.g., recall recent and remote information, including steps of a task/skill). Identify cause-and-effect type relationships (e.g., comprehend and apply abstract concepts). Utilize computer programs for electronic medical records and educational testing purposes (e.g., unit exams, quizzes, and standardized tests, including HESI, NLN, ATI, etc., are computer-based). |
| Safety | Perceive and appropriately respond to alarms and emergency signals (e.g., monitors, fire alarms, hospital codes, call bells, etc.). Abide by safety policies and procedures in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical facility settings. |
Sensory Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Observation | Observe and recognize objects up to 20 inches away (e.g., access patient/client information on computer screens, recognize very fine print on medication labels, monitor strips, equipment calibrations, syringes, etc.). Perceive depth in the surrounding environment (e.g., prepare a correct quantity of medication). Peripheral color distinction (e.g., distinguish a change in skin integrity, breathing patterns, and color intensity, such as the ability to identify cyanosis; identify allergic responses such as skin rashes). |
| Perception |
Perceive vibrations and differences in sizes, shapes, and surface characteristics (e.g., palpate pulses and veins, identify body landmarks, and check for drafts). Detect temperature changes (e.g., skin temperature). Recognize a range of tones (e.g., assess the placement of tubes, faint body sounds, patient/client reports, faint voices, blood pressure sounds). Recognize interpersonal communication in situations when faces are partially covered (e.g., lips are covered by a face mask). Detect and distinguish odors from patient/client versus environment (e.g., detect foul-smelling drainage, alcohol breath, etc., versus detection of smoke; detect gases or noxious smells). |
| Interpretation | Recognize and understand content printed in English (e.g., policies, protocols, standards of care). Recognize and understand measurement marks and graphs (e.g., measurement tapes, scales, thermometers, etc.). Interpret digital displays. |
Social-Behavioral Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Communication |
Communicate with patients’/clients’ family members and health care providers regarding the individual’s plan of care. Teach, instruct, and explain procedures (e.g., patient/client/family about health care). Provide status reports (e.g., report on the condition of the patient/client to others). Direct activities of others. Clarify the meaning of nonverbal communication. Convey information through writing using proper communication techniques (e.g., correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling) in printed and typed correspondence. Correspond via telephone using proper technique and etiquette. Influence people (e.g., use physical touch as a therapeutic nonverbal intervention). |
| Adaptability | Adapt effectively to changing environments and increasing tension levels in a variety of situations. Demonstrate flexibility and learn to function in the face of uncertainties and ambiguities inherent in the clinical problems of many patients/clients. |
| Emotional Stability | Establish therapeutic boundaries (e.g., provide patients/clients with emotional support; monitor and appropriately regulate own emotions without prompting from others). Carry out responsibilities that can often be taxing and stressful, and function effectively under stress (e.g., stressful issues can include human suffering, threats to personal safety, conflict, disagreements, and the need for collaboration and working as a member of the healthcare team). Focus sustained attention and concentration on tasks (e.g., perform multiple responsibilities concurrently). Recognize constructive criticism and performance feedback as avenues for improvement. |
| Interpersonal Skills |
Negotiate interpersonal conflict (e.g., consult, negotiate, share, etc., as a member of an interdisciplinary team). Respect differences in patients/clients and peers (e.g., participate in partnered and group efforts in the classroom and clinical learning activities). Establish rapport with patients/clients and co-workers (e.g., practice in a manner that is non-judgmental and non-discriminatory). Demonstrate cultural sensitivity (e.g., interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, intellectual, and cultural backgrounds). Develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with healthcare team members and patients/clients. |
| Ethics & Professionalism | Seek supervision and consultation in a timely manner before performing any activity or procedure in which the provider feels unprepared or unsure. Present self to the public, coworkers, patients/clients, families, administration, faculty, and all others in a polite and respectful manner at all times. Protect patients’/clients’ privacy and confidential information (e.g., adhere to HIPAA restrictions). |
LVN-AND Transition Program
- Duration
- 2 years (full time)
- Program Format
-
- In-Person
- Campus Location
- Total Minimum Credits: 60
-
View the LVN Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, A.A.S. degree plan to see the total credit hours required.
- Cost
-
Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.
Professional Nursing Practice, A.A.S.
Students in the Associate Degree Nursing Program are taught the knowledge and skills needed to work with patients and their families in a variety of health-care settings. Graduates are prepared to work collectively and collaboratively with other members of the health-care team to provide nursing care for patients and their loved ones. The graduate may find employment in areas such as hospitals, clinics, home health-care agencies and physician’s offices.
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is conditionally approved by the Texas Board of Nursing (TBON).
The Texas Board of Nursing
333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-460
Austin, TX 78701-3944
(512) 305.7401
www.bne.state.tx.us
Students will be able to upon graduation from the program (Consistent with rule 215.9):
-
Associate Degree Nursing Graduates first-time NCLEX pass rates will be at or above the required 80%, per the TBON rule 215.4(c)(2)
-
Program completion: Student retention will be 70% or higher within 150% of the time from entry into the program.
-
Program Satisfaction: 80% of the graduates will report satisfaction (3.0 or above mean rating on Associate Degree Graduate exit survey) with the preparation for nursing practice provided by the program.
-
Employer satisfaction: 80% of employers of graduates will report satisfaction (3.0 or above mean rating on employer survey) with the competency of graduates as defined by the student learning outcomes and graduate competencies. Job placements: 80% or more graduates will be employed within six months of the program completion as Registered Nurses.
Psychomotor Skills
| Required Essential Functions | Standards (Tasks) |
|---|---|
| Gross Motor | Move within confined spaces (e.g., hang solution IV poles). Sit and maintain balance. Stand and maintain balance. Reach above shoulders and below waist (e.g., connect electrical appliance into wall outlet). Stoop and squat (e.g., assist patients/clients with daily living activities). Squeeze with hands (e.g., operate fire extinguisher). |
| Fine Motor | Squeeze with fingers (e.g., calibrate equipment). Pick up, grasp, and twist small objects (e.g., withdraw solution using a syringe). Use writing utensils (e.g., record numbers in records/charts; document clearly and correctly on patient/client medical records for legal documentation). Key/type and otherwise operate common desktop computer accessories. |
| Physical Strength & Endurance | Sustain repetitive movement (e.g., Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, physical assessment). Complete an entire assigned shift (e.g., 8-12 hours). Push and pull a minimum of 50 pounds (e.g., positioning and transferring patients/clients). Lift a minimum of 25 pounds (e.g., providing physical assistance when ambulating patient/client). |
| Mobility | Maneuver in small spaces. Move independently. Respond rapidly to emergencies. |
Cognitive Skills
|
Required Essential Functions |
Standards (Tasks) |
| Critical & Analytical Thinking |
Perform dosage calculations in a timely manner (e.g., 10-60 minutes in non-emergency; 2-3 minutes in an emergency). Convert numbers to and/or from the Metric System. Add, subtract, multiply, and/or divide whole numbers. Compute fractions (e.g., medication dosages) both manually and with calculator. Transfer knowledge from one situation to another using long-term and short-term memory (e.g., assimilate and apply knowledge acquired from multiple learning experiences). Prioritize tasks and evaluate outcomes (e.g., handle multipletasks and problem solve simultaneously). Synthesize knowledge and skills (e.g., analyze assessment data in determining nursing diagnoses, and while participating in planning and modifying of nursing care plan). Sequence information and prioritize tasks (e.g., recall recent and remote information including steps of a task/skill). Identify cause-and-effect type relationships (e.g., comprehend and apply abstract concepts). Utilize computer programs for electronic medical records and educational testing purposes (e.g., unit exams, quizzes, and standardized tests including HESI, NLN, ATI, etc. are computer based). |
| Safety | Perceive and appropriately respond to alarms and emergency signals (e.g., monitors, fire alarms, hospital codes, call bells, etc.). Abide by safety policies and procedures in classroom, laboratory, and clinical facility settings. |
Sensory Skills
|
Required Essential Functions |
Standards (Tasks) |
| Observation | Observe and recognize objects up to 20 inches away (e.g., access patient/client information on computer screens, recognize very fine print on medication labels, monitor strips, equipment calibrations, syringes, etc.). Perceive depth in surrounding environment (e.g., prepare correct quantity of medication). Peripheral color distinction (e.g., distinguish change in skin integrity, breathing patters, and color intensity such as the ability to identify cyanosis; identify allergic responses such as skin rashes). |
| Perception |
Perceive vibrations, and differences in sizes, shapes, and surface characteristics (e.g., palpate pulses and veins, identify body landmarks, and check for drafts). Detect temperature changes (e.g., skin temperature). Recognize a range of tones (e.g., assess placement of tubes, faint body sounds, patient/client reports, faint voices, blood pressure sounds). Recognize interpersonal communication in situations when faces are partially covered (e.g., lips are covered by face mask). Detect and distinguish odors from patient/client versus environment (e.g., detect foul smelling drainage, alcohol breath, etc. versus detection of smoke; detect gases or noxious smells). |
| Interpretation | Recognize and understand content printed in English (e.g., policies, protocols, standards of care). Recognize and understand measurement marks and graphs (e.g., measurement tapes, scales, thermometer, etc.). Interpret digital displays. |
Social-Behavioral Skills
| Required Essential Functions |
Standards (Tasks) |
| Communication |
Communicate with patients’/clients’ family members, and healthcare providers regarding the individual’s plan of care. Teach, instruct, and explain procedures (e.g.,patient/client/family about health care). Provide status reports (e.g., report on condition of patient/client to others). Direct activities of others. Clarify the meaning of nonverbal communication. Convey information through writing using proper communication techniques (e.g., correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling) in printed and typed correspondence. Correspond via telephone using proper technique and etiquette. Influence people (e.g., use physical touch as a therapeutic nonverbal intervention). |
| Adaptability |
Adapt effectively to changing environments and increasing tension levels in a variety of situations. Demonstrate flexibility and learn to function in the face of uncertainties and ambiguities inherent in the clinical problems of many patients/clients. |
| Emotional Stability |
Establish therapeutic boundaries (e.g., provide patients/clients with emotional support; monitor and appropriately regulate own emotions without prompting from others). Carry out responsibilities that can often be taxing and stressful, and function effectively under stress (e.g., stressful issues can include human suffering, threats to personal safety, conflict, disagreements, and the need for collaboration and working as a member of the healthcare team). Focus sustained attention and concentration on tasks (e.g., perform multiple responsibilities concurrently). Recognize constructive criticism and performance feedback as avenues for improvement. |
| Interpersonal Skills |
Negotiate interpersonal conflict (e.g., consult, negotiate, share, etc. as a member of an interdisciplinary team). Respect differences in patients/clients and peers (e.g., participate in partnered and group efforts in classroom and clinical learning activities). Establish report with patients/clients and co-workers (e.g., practice in a manner that is non-judgmental and non-discriminatory). Demonstrate cultural sensitivity (e.g., interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, intellectual, and cultural backgrounds). Develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with health care team members and patients/clients. |
| Ethics & Professionalism |
Seek supervision and consultation in a timely manner, before performing any activity or procedure in which the provider feels unprepared or unsure. Present self to public, coworkers, patients/clients, families, administration, faculty, and all others in a polite and respectful manner at all times. Protect patients’/clients’ privacy and confidential information (e.g., adhere to HIPPA restrictions). |
Nursing Department
- Duration
- 2 years (full time)
- Program Format
-
- In-Person
- Campus Location
- Total Minimum Credits: 60
-
View the Professional Nursing Practice, A.A.S. Program degree plan to see the total credit hours required.
- Cost
-
Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.
Daniel Bertalot
/0x70:419x349/prod01/channel_4/media/hccsedu/content-assets/images/programs-amp-courses/explore-all-programs/nursing/DanielBertalot_LVN.png)
I chose this program because I wanted a meaningful career where I could help people.
Daniel Bertalot
Licensed Vocational Nursing, Class of 2022
Career Outlook
This overview highlights key labor market indicators for University Transfer and Workforce Training careers in this field in the Houston area, including the number of currently employed, the median annual salary for the occupation, and the job growth.
Average Salary
50th percentile (median) salary range in the Houston area.
Currently Employed
100,754 currently employed in the Greater Houston area.
Projected Growth
5.6% projected growth for 2026-2030.
State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) Policy 5.2
Programs leading to professional licensure SARA has no effect on state professional licensing requirements. Any institution approved to participate in SARA that offers courses or programs designed to lead to professional licensure or certification or advertised as leading to licensure must satisfy all federal requirements for disclosures regarding such professional licensure programs. For SARA purposes, these requirements will also apply to non-Title IV institutions and programs.