Admissions Steps
Meet Basic Entry Requirements
You must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 17 years old. You will need to apply to Bakersfield College as a general student first and complete any required placement assessments. A valid Social Security number is required for licensing eligibility after program completion. Make sure you are cleared for enrollment at the college before beginning prerequisite coursework.
Complete Required Prerequisites
Bakersfield College requires completion of several prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better: Anatomy (BIOL B32), Physiology (BIOL B33), English Composition (ENGL B1a), Intermediate Algebra or higher (MATH B6a or equivalent), Nutrition (BIOL B36 or equivalent), and Introduction to Psychology (PSYC B1a). Your prerequisite GPA factors into the competitive selection ranking, so aim for the highest grades possible.
Submit Application & Testing
During the designated application window, submit your nursing program application along with official transcripts showing completed prerequisites. You will likely need to take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) exam, and your score contributes to your ranking. The application period typically opens in spring for a fall start. Pay close attention to deadlines, as late or incomplete applications are generally not accepted.
Complete Background & Health Clearances
Once accepted, you will need to pass a criminal background check and drug screening. Additional requirements include current immunization records (including hepatitis B series, MMR, varicella, and flu vaccine), a negative TB test or chest X-ray, a current physical exam, and CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association. All clearances must be completed before you begin clinical rotations.
BC Admissions Quick Reference
Program: Vocational Nursing Certificate
Prerequisites: Anatomy, Physiology, English, Math, Nutrition, Psychology (all C or better)
Entrance Exam: TEAS exam (score contributes to ranking)
GPA Minimum: C or better in prerequisites; higher GPA improves ranking
Start Dates: Once per year, typically fall semester
Background Check: Required before clinical rotations
Frequently Asked Questions About Bakersfield College
Does Bakersfield College offer evening, weekend, or part-time LVN classes?
Based on available information, Bakersfield College's Vocational Nursing program operates on a full-time daytime schedule. Evening-only and weekend-only options do not appear to be offered at this time. If you need a nontraditional schedule, contact the BC nursing department directly to ask whether any alternative scheduling arrangements are available or planned for future cohorts.
How competitive is admission to Bakersfield College's LVN program?
Admission is competitive. Bakersfield College uses a multi-criteria ranking system that factors in your prerequisite GPA and TEAS exam score, among other criteria. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a seat. Because the program typically starts only once per year, the applicant pool can be large. Focus on earning high prerequisite grades and preparing thoroughly for the TEAS to improve your ranking.
How long does Bakersfield College's Bakersfield LVN program take?
The Vocational Nursing certificate program takes approximately 12 months to complete, spanning three semesters of full-time study. Keep in mind that completing the prerequisite courses can add one to two additional semesters before you even apply. Plan your total timeline accordingly, including prerequisite coursework and the once-per-year application cycle.
Is Bakersfield College a good fit for working adults?
The full-time daytime schedule and clinical rotation hours can make it difficult to work full-time simultaneously. If you are currently employed, you should ask admissions exactly what the weekly time commitment looks like, including class hours, lab hours, clinical hours, and study expectations. Some students manage part-time evening or weekend work, but you should plan realistically before committing.
Can Bakersfield College's LVN program be a good starting point before an LVN-to-RN bridge later?
Yes, earning your LVN license is a practical first step toward a longer nursing career. Many LVN-to-RN bridge programs accept licensed vocational nurses with clinical experience. Completing your LVN at a regionally accredited community college like Bakersfield College may help with credit transfer later. Ask admissions whether any of the prerequisite coursework also applies toward an ADN or bridge program.