Associate of Science in Vocational Nursing

The Vocational Nursing curriculum is designed to prepare students to practice intelligent care at the bedside, to assist in the rehabilitation of the sick and prevention of disease, and to prepare the students for their role in the community as contributing citizens, according to the basic principles of health and nursing. The Vocational Nursing curriculum is accredited by the California Board of Vocational Nurse and Psychiatric Technician Examiners. Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for the California state examination to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN).

The AS degree in Vocational Nursing will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the Major course requirements and the General Education requirements. A Certificate of Achievement will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the major course requirements.

Eligibility/Admission/Completion Requirements:

Admission to the Vocational Nursing program is by special application and evaluation of academic and personal qualifications. Completion of the program requires the student to maintain satisfactory performance (a 75% or better passing grade) in all Vocational Nursing courses and satisfactory performance in the clinical experience.

Program requirements are as follows:

Applicants must be high school graduates or the equivalent. Health clearances (physical examination and negative TB test results) are required and are to be submitted to the Vocational Nursing Department before the start of the program. Applicants must satisfactorily complete the prerequisite courses, Biol 20A and 20B, or Biol 2 and or the equivalent, with grade “C” or better before applying to the program. All Vocational Nursing courses in each semester must be completed satisfactorily with a performance grade of 75% or better before a student can enroll in the succeeding semester. The clinical experience, whereby the student is required to work directly with patients, is a significant part of the program. In the interest of patient safety, repeated unsatisfactory performance in the clinical experience will subject a student to dismissal from the program.

Merritt College is a public, two-year college and one of four colleges in the Peralta Community College District in Alameda County. Merritt College offers courses and comprehensive programs that support transfer to four-year institutions as well as technical and occupational endeavors. Merritt College is committed to meeting the educational needs of the diverse student population and the community it serves. Located on a 125-acre site in the hills of southeastern Oakland, Merritt College combines modern, spacious facilities with a panoramic, spectacular view of the entire Bay Area.

Mission

The mission of Merritt College is to enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve by helping students to attain knowledge, master skills, and develop the appreciation, attitudes, and values needed to succeed and participate responsibly in a democratic society global economy.

Vision

Merritt inspires students to create meaningful lives including fulfilling careers, community participation, self-expression, and a love of learning.

Why Choose Merritt

Merritt College opened its doors nearly 60 years ago and today remains the heart of a thriving, diverse community where students of all ages and backgrounds can get a quality education at a very affordable price. Whether you want to get an associate degree, transfer to a four-year college or university, update your job skills, find a new career, or take a class just for personal enrichment, Merritt College is the place to be.

• Cost: As a community college, Merritt provides college-level education at a fraction of the cost of a four-year or private university. At only $46 per unit, a full-time student spends only $552 in tuition costs for the entire semester. (Books and supplies not included).
• Variety of majors: Merritt offers a wide array of certificates, associate degrees, and transfer courses that you can choose from to design a career. Some of our most sought-after programs are nursing, radiology, nutrition, microscopy, administration of justice, child development, paralegal studies, and much more.
• Flexibility: We have morning and evening course offerings to accommodate your schedule as well as online courses.
• Academic Support: Our Learning Center provides a quiet place to study, tutoring services to support your academic needs, and dozens of computers for you to make sure you can complete your homework assignments.
• Quality of Education: Our certificate and AA degree programs train you in the skills necessary to be competitive in today’s job market. Our transfer courses are recognized by all public and private universities.
• Student Services: Our Admissions Office will help you resolve problems related to enrollment and our Financial Aid Office will help you with issues related to federal and state grants to finance your education. You may also use our Counseling services to explore your academic and career pathways. Additional support programs are available, including the Extended Opportunity Program & Services for first-generation college attendees with a low income, Disabled Student Services for individuals needing accommodations for disabilities, and MerrittWorks for CalWorks recipients. Many other programs are available as well to meet the needs of all students.