The educational pathway to becoming an LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse), ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), and RN-BSN (Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing) offers distinct routes with varying levels of education and training. An LVN typically completes a practical nursing program that lasts about 12 months for full time students and 18 months for part time evening students, leading to certification after passing the NCLEX-PN exam. An ADN program, usually offered at community colleges, takes around two years to complete and prepares students to become registered nurses, eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. For those looking to advance their careers, the RN-BSN pathway builds upon the ADN by adding a bachelor's degree, which typically takes an additional 1 to 2 years of study. The RN-BSN is often pursued through an accelerated program for working nurses, and provides a deeper focus on leadership, research, and evidence-based practice, opening doors to more advanced roles in nursing and healthcare management. Each pathway offers distinct opportunities, but all lead to critical roles in providing patient care across various healthcare settings.
Pathway
WC Workforce Certificates
- Certified Nurse Aide
- Clinical Medical Assistant
- Dental Assistant
- Electrocardiography (EKG) Technician
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Medical Office Assistant
- Medication Aide
- Patient Care Technician
- Pharmacy Technician
WC Certificates Level II
WC Associate Degrees
- Cardiovascular Sonography
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Radiologic Technology
- Respiratory Care
- Veterinary Technology
WC Bachelor's Degree
Career Options
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects healthcare professions to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2033. "About 1.9 million openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently."
Academic Pathways and Faculty Mentors are resources to help guide students on their journey as Weatherford College. To learn more about your Pathway and Faculty Mentors, visit the Health Professions Community page.