About the Program
The Licensed Vocational Nursing program is a state approved vocational program which provides the curriculum necessary for an individual to qualify for the state board examination for Licensure as a vocational nurse. The curriculum includes prerequisite courses and the equivalent of three academic semesters of nursing theory and supervised clinical experiences.
The primary role of the licensed vocational nurse is to provide bedside nursing in a variety of clinical settings. The student will study common medical-surgical conditions, their origin, prevention and treatment emphasizing the related nursing care. To help the student provide “individualized” nursing care, other courses provide basic psychology and sociology concepts relevant to the development, motivation and reactions of people healthy and ill.
The rapidly growing need for skilled health personnel provides good employment opportunities for the Licensed Vocational Nurse. Positions are found in general and convalescent hospitals, physicians’ offices, private homes, community health agencies and in industry.
Admission to the Program:
Contact the Nursing Department or visit www.butte.edu/healthoccupations for application dates and materials. Nursing classes are limited in size. Admission to the program is based on academic and general requirements.
Applicants that have failed, more than once, from any nursing program (LVN and/or RN) are ineligible to apply.
Persons with substance abuse issues or with conviction of crimes substantially related to the practice of nursing may not be granted a license by the California Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Fingerprints are a required part of the application for licensure. Records that are expunged or sealed, and juvenile records will be accessed and reviewed. For more information, please visit the following website: http://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/enforcement/enforcement_faq.shtml
The Nursing Department will not accept online labs for BIOL 20 Human Anatomy, or BIOL 21 Human Physiology.
Program Requirements
For current program requirements -> 2024-2025
Program Goal: Career
GE Pattern(s): Butte Local
Program Code: 01340.00AS
Program Learning Outcome(s):
Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:
Use the nursing process to provide nursing care to individual patients/clients and families throughout the life span.
Demonstrate competency in the performance of technical nursing skills based on knowledge of nursing principles.
Provide educational information for individual patients/clients, families, and groups to promote, achieve, or maintain a state of health.
Initiate and maintain therapeutic communication with individual patients/clients and families.
Demonstrate caring behaviors based on recognition of individual needs and cultural differences.
Collaborate with other healthcare team members to provide optimum care.
Demonstrate professional behaviors in the role of a Licensed Vocational Nurse.
Unit(s): 4.00
Transfer Status: CSU/UC
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
/ 51.00 hours Lab
Total Course Hours: 102.00
Structural organization of the human body: gross and microscopic structure of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, sensory, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems, from cellular to organ system levels of organization. This course is primarily intended for nursing, allied health, kinesiology, and other health related majors. (C-ID BIOL 110B).
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 20 and CHEM 1 or CHEM 51
Unit(s): 4.00
Transfer Status: CSU/UC
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
/ 51.00 hours Lab
Total Course Hours: 102.00
Study of the physiological principles, function, integration and homeostasis of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, organ system and organism level: integumentary system, bone, skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscles, nervous system, sensory organs, cardiovascular system, lymphatic and immune systems, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, endocrine system, and reproductive system. This course is primarily intended for Nursing, Allied Health, Kinesiology, and other health related majors. (C-ID BIOL 120B).
Prerequisite(s): Eligibility to enroll in a transferable English Composition course.
Unit(s): 4.00
Transfer Status: CSU/UC
Contact Hours:
68.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 68.00
This is an introductory course that offers instruction in expository and argumentative writing, appropriate and effective use of language, close reading, cogent thinking, research strategies, information literacy, and documentation. Students will critically read expository, argumentative, and fictional texts and develop expository, persuasive, and argumentative academic writing. Essays will demonstrate reading comprehension, analysis, critique, academic research, and synthesis. Graded only. (C-ID ENGL 100).
Unit(s): 4.00
Transfer Status: CSU/UC
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 51.00
This course builds on literacy practices by developing expository and argumentative writing, awareness of audience, purpose and appropriate and effective use of language, close reading, cogent thinking, research strategies, information literacy, and documentation. Students will critically read and write primarily expository and argumentative texts that respond to a variety of rhetorical situations and contexts and incorporate college-level research. Graded only. (C-ID ENGL 100)
Unit(s): 3.00
Transfer Status: CSU/UC
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 51.00
This course examines the scientific concepts of nutrition related to the function of nutrients in basic life processes and current health issues with emphasis on individual needs. (C-ID NUTR 110).
Unit(s): 4.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
68.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 68.00
This course introduces the basic principles of nutrition related to health and disease. The course focuses on the diseases that affect nutritional status and the medical nutrition therapy that is used to manage and treat these conditions.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Vocational Nursing Program
Corequisite(s): NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Unit(s): 3.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 51.00
This course focuses on the client-centered study of fundamental nursing concepts applicable to all clinical areas in vocational nursing. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Vocational Nursing Program
Corequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Unit(s): 7.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
0.00 hours Lecture
/ 357.00 hours Lab
Total Course Hours: 357.00
In this course students apply fundamental nursing skills and provide client care for adults. The course provides the opportunity to apply didactic information from concurrent nursing courses to the clinical setting. Pass/No Pass only.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Vocational Nursing Program
Corequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Unit(s): 1.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
17.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 17.00
This course introduces the vocational nursing student to the facts and myths of the older population, common conditions and diseases, assistive and restorative resources, and the older person's physiological and psychological responses to illness and medication. Included in the unit is the normal physiological and psychological aging process as well as information supportive of positive and healthy aging. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Vocational Nursing Program
Corequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Unit(s): 3.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 51.00
This course covers basic applied pharmacology and major drug groups. Students will learn computation of drug dosages and safe and correct administration of medications. Emphasis will be placed on drug action, pharmacokinetics, adverse drug effects, side effects of drug therapy and nursing process related to drug groups. The course will be closely correlated to concurrent medical-surgical theory and clinical experiences. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Vocational Nursing Program
Corequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23 and NSG 28
Unit(s): 1.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
17.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 17.00
This course provides a foundation in the study of nursing process, basic physiology and pathophysiology related to adult clients experiencing disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to Vocational Nursing Program
Corequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23 and NSG 24
Unit(s): 1.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
17.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 17.00
This course focuses on developing therapeutic communication skills in all aspects of nursing care. Nursing process as it applies to interpersonal communication and personality development theory will be integrated throughout course. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Corequisite(s): NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Unit(s): 7.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
0.00 hours Lecture
/ 357.00 hours Lab
Total Course Hours: 357.00
This course further develops skills developed during Clinical Nursing I and prepares students to provide care for hospitalized patients. Focus is on adult Medical-Surgical nursing as related to concurrent nursing units. Care for the perioperative patient is emphasized. Pass/No Pass only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Corequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 35, NSG 36, NSG 37
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course provides an introduction to nursing care related to clients in the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative phases of surgical care. Included is a focused study of the teaching needs of clients and families in perioperative settings. Development of client education skills, awareness of barriers to client learning, and a review of adult learning styles is included. Medications used during each phase of the perioperative process is addressed. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Corequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Unit(s): 3.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
51.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 51.00
This course introduces students to the nursing process related to adult clients experiencing disorders of the respiratory, cardiovascular, hematologic, and immune systems. Pathophysiology and medical treatment of diseases of the respiratory, cardiovascular, and immune systems are addressed. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Corequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35 and NSG 37
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course provides the student with the tools to use critical thinking skills in application of knowledge in the pathophysiology and nursing care of clients with disorders of the gastrointestinal and renal/urinary systems. Emphasis will be placed on individualized care and teaching of the client and family will focus on biophysical and rehabilitation needs, as well as cultural and psychosocial influences. A brief review of medications appropriate to each disease process will be integrated into the lecture. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 18, NSG 21, NSG 22, NSG 23, NSG 24 and NSG 28
Corequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35 and NSG 36
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course covers basic nursing process, basic physiology, pathophysiology, medical care, complications, and nursing care related to clients experiencing disorders of the endocrine system. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Corequisite(s): NSG 42, NSG 43, NSG 44, NSG 47 and NSG 49
Unit(s): 7.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
0.00 hours Lecture
/ 357.00 hours Lab
Total Course Hours: 357.00
This course is a continuation of hospital clinical experience with a concentration on adult Medical-Surgical Nursing. Pass/No Pass only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Corequisite(s): NSG 41, NSG 43, NSG 44, NSG 47 and NSG 49
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course provides a foundation in the study of maternal-child care. Maternal-child nursing presents family centered care throughout the perinatal period and continues with the study of family centered care of children from infancy through adolescence. Included are disorders of the reproductive system. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Corequisite(s): NSG 41, NSG 42, NSG 44, NSG 47 and NSG 49
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course provides a foundation in the study of nursing care and basic physiology and pathophysiology related to clients experiencing disorders of the nervous system. Emphasis is on client, family, and group centered care. This course also addresses biophysical, psychosocial, cultural, and rehabilitation needs of adult clients. Students are introduced to principles and strategies for the promotion of wellness. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Corequisite(s): NSG 41, NSG 42, NSG 43, NSG 47 and NSG 49
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course is an exploration of the psychology of maladaptive behavior and students are introduced to principles and strategies for the promotion of wellness. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Corequisite(s): NSG 41, NSG 42, NSG 43 and NSG 49
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course provides a foundation in the study of oncology nursing care including an introduction to oncology, prevention, detection and medical treatment. Content includes loss, grief, and death and dying. Graded only.
Prerequisite(s): NSG 31, NSG 32, NSG 35, NSG 36 and NSG 37
Corequisite(s): NSG 41, NSG 42, NSG 43, NSG 44 and NSG 47
Unit(s): 2.00
Transfer Status: CSU
Contact Hours:
34.00 hours Lecture
Total Course Hours: 34.00
This course provides an overview of the role of a nurse manager/supervisor and leader in a structured setting. The focus is on the development of the basic skills that facilitate the management process. Career opportunities, employer/employee relationships and responsibilities, as well as professional expectations are explored. This course will also provide an overview of nursing history, theory, legal and ethical concerns, and scope of practice of the LVN. Graded only.
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Contacts
Laurie Bowles, Chair
(530) 895-2356
Department Office: AHPS 215
(530) 895-2328
Counseling and Advising:
(530) 895-2378
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