Health Occupations Center

Is there a vocational nursing Q&A session available?

HOC no longer holds Q&A sessions. We do our best to post as much information as possible on our website for review at your convenience, including this FAQ for common questions we receive. If you have any questions that have not been answered, please contact the HOC office during business hours at 619-956-4300.

Is there a mandatory orientation for the vocational nursing program?

Prospective VN students are not required to attend a Career Training Orientation to apply for the vocational nursing program. Since all vocational nursing applicants must already be CNAs, they are already familiar with the healthcare field. On the LVN Course page, you will see the upcoming Class Application Process, which has the link to the most recent recorded orientation video. The video contains details and tips on the program requirements and application process. It is HIGHLY recommended that all prospective students view the orientation video before applying. Common mistakes in application submissions could be prevented through the information provided in the video. 

How often does HOC accept applications and start new VN classes?

HOC starts a new vocational nursing class twice a year in January and July. The application window for January start is mid-September to mid-October. The application window for the July start is late February to late March. The specific dates and link to apply are located on the LVN Course page under the Class Application Process.

What are the requirements/prerequisites to apply to the vocational nursing program?  

Please visit the LVN Course page. There is a tab at the bottom of the page for "Requirements" that is updated regularly. 

When do the TEAS Review and VN A & P classes at HOC open for registration?

The exact date for TEAS Review and VN A & P registration will be posted on the Class Application Process for the upcoming class. Traditionally, you can expect the window to open in early December for spring classes and early July for fall classes.

What are the requirements for the Anatomy and Physiology prerequisite?

If you plan to take the VN A & P at the Health Occupations Center, it will fulfill your A & P requirement for the VN application. If you have taken the course at an accredited college or university, you can use those transcripts to fulfill the requirement but there are recency requirements. View the VN orientation video for specifics.

Does the Health Occupations Center accept financial aid?

Due to being under a K-12 public school district, we are not able to accept financial aid.  The LVN program is listed on CalJobs and the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL) with the San Diego Workforce Partnership, which can provide tuition assistance.  Please contact your local career center for more information.

To apply for the Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) Program do I have to be a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)?

Yes, to apply for our LVN program you must have your CNA certification no later than the LVN application due date.  Sorry, but we are not able to substitute other certifications such as Medical Assistant or Phlebotomy to fulfill this state-mandated requirement.