Nursing (ADN)/Nursing Transition (LVN to ADN) - A.A.S. Degree, Certificates

Begin Your Nursing Career at Alvin Community College

The Alvin Community College Nursing Program can help you take advantage of the vast health Best Value Nursing Associate's Degree Schools care career opportunities that exist in the Houston Metropolitan region and beyond. The region is home to the largest medical complex in the world (Texas Medical Center). Employment for registered nurses (RNs) in Texas is expected to grow by 31 percent by 2032 while demand is expected to grow by 39 percent.

2-Year ADN program application instructions *Updated for the March 2025 application cycle

LVN-ADN Transition program application instructions

Nursing is a high-paying, well-respected, and in-demand career path. With a degree in nursing from ACC, you can become an RN in just two years or transfer to a four-year university to obtain your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. 

Our experienced faculty and staff will instruct and mentor you inside and outside the classroom. The training is rigorous and rewarding. Our students consistently achieve some of the highest first-time pass rates in the state on the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN). Visit the Texas Board of Nursing to compare ACC ADN pass rates with other Texas nursing schools.

Our students are highly successful upon graduation  

Career Opportunities

As the largest healthcare occupation, RNs work in a variety of healthcare settings including hospitals, clinics, surgical centers, long-term care, home healthcare, and others.

For more information on career opportunities in Nursing, please visit Career Coach where you can explore the local job market, take a career assessment, and build a resumé.

Career Data

 

What Will I Study?

Each semester ADN students will be enrolled in theory and clinical courses. In addition, skills courses are taught in the first year of the program.  During the last semester capstone course, students spend approximately half of the semester in a preceptorship (mentored) experience. The ADN program has clinical affiliates throughout the Houston-Galveston region, including the Texas Medical Center.

Upon acceptance into the ADN program you will learn: 

  • Theory and clinical laboratory skills
  • Ethics and standards of practice
  • Patient care technologies
  • How to identify problems and develop plans of care for patients and their families
  • How to delegate, manage and lead others 

For more information, please visit the Student Learning Outcomes section. 

Curriculum Guide - Nursing (ADN)/Nursing Transition (LVN to ADN) A.A.S. Degree/ Certificates

Nursing (ADN), A.A.S.

(CIP 51.3801)

281-756-5630

Purpose: The program seeks to prepare graduates who are critical thinkers and competent practitioners. As Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) graduates, they will practice within the defined roles and competencies of the Associate Degree nurse. In response to community and societal needs, they will be prepared to care for individuals and families in structured settings. Courses are presented according to their content and effectiveness toward successful fulfillment of state board competencies.

Upon the successful completion of a minimum of two (2) academic years and all program requirements, the graduate is eligible to make application to write the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

The program is approved by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON) and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN). The mission of the BON is to protect and promote the welfare of the people of Texas by ensuring that each person holding a license as a nurse in the State of Texas is competent to practice safely. The ACEN is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the national accrediting body for all types of nursing education programs. The Associate Degree nursing program at Alvin Community College located in Alvin, Texas is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associate Degree Nursing program is Continuing Accreditation.

Texas Board of Nursing (BON)
George H.W. Bush State Office Building
1801 Congress Avenue, Suite 10-200
Austin, TX 78701
512-305-7400
http://www.bon.texas.gov/

ACEN
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30326
404-975-5000
https://www.acenursing.org/

A person who has been convicted of or received deferred adjudication for anything other than a minor traffic violation, has been diagnosed with mental illness, or has a history of substance abuse, should contact the Texas Board of Nursing for licensure eligibility criteria. Individuals with felonies are ineligible for admission to the ADN Program.

Admission Requirements:

A new class begins each fall and spring semester. Applications are available at www.alvincollege.edu/adn during the application period. Application periods are typically in March and September. Refer to the website for the specific dates of each application period. Qualified applicants are admitted according to space available. To be considered for admission to the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program, the applicant must:

  1. Be fully admitted to Alvin Community College.
  2. Submit an ADN application to the ADN department during the application period.
  3. Submit, by the application deadline, proof to the ADN department of having met the following minimum admission standards:
    1. HESI A2 test score of 78 or higher on the cumulative and a 78 or higher on the Reading section. The following HESI A2 sections must be taken: Math, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary and General Knowledge, Grammar, and Anatomy and Physiology. Section scores may be combined from more than one HESI A2 test. All HESI A2 section scores must be less than or equal to 5 years old as of the ADN application deadline. Beginning January 2022, ADN applicants may repeat individual HESI-A2 sections no less than 90 days apart. Students may submit two HESI-A2 exams from a twelve-month period. Each exam submitted must be at least 90 days from any prior HESI exam section attempt for the new section score to be considered. For any HESI-A2 section(s) repeated less than 90 days apart, the earlier section score is counted and the latter section score is not, regardless of which section score is the highest. For any HESI-A2 section(s) repeated 90 or more days apart, not exceeding the maximum of twice a calendar year, the highest section score is counted. For tests taken prior to January 2022, sections may be repeated no less than 30 days apart. For any HESI-A2 section(s) repeated less than 30 days apart, the earlier section score is counted and the latter section score is not, regardless of which section score is the highest. This policy applies regardless of the testing location.
      (The ADN department does not accept HESI A2 score reports from students. HESI A2 score reports are automatically available to the ADN department if the HESI A2 is taken at Alvin Community College. If the HESI A2 is taken elsewhere, the applicant must pay a fee to Elsevier to have the official score report sent to the ADN department.)
    2. TSI (Texas Success Initiative) requirement satisfied as determined by ACC's testing and placement policies. Transfer students must meet the transfer institution's TSI requirements if not enrolled at ACC.
    3. Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better in nursing and nursing curriculum courses.
    4. Receipt of at least two (2) of the three (3) immunizations for Hepatitis B or proof of Hepatitis-B immunity (positive HBsAB) by application deadline. The series of three (3) immunizations must be completed by the start date of the program.
  4. Attend one of the mandatory ADN Applicant meetings discussing specific program policies and requirements held during the application period.
  5. Submit to the ACC Registrar's office official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended. No academic course with a grade below C is accepted for transfer credit in the ADN program. Academic courses include composition/written communication, social/behavioral/biological sciences, humanities, and visual/performing arts. Do not submit college transcripts to the nursing office. Applicants with credits from institutions outside the United States must have their foreign transcripts evaluated by one of the approved companies listed in the Evaluation of Credit from Foreign Institutions section of the College Catalog. The ADN department will use the evaluation company's report when assessing the applicant's foreign credits and grades. The applicant must submit the original evaluation report to either the ADN department or the Admissions Office by the nursing application deadline. Any out of state transcript must be evaluated by an advisor at least 45 days prior to the application deadline. Make an appointment at: Advising@alvincollege.edu.
  6. Have completed or be in-progress taking the prerequisite courses of BIOL 2401BIOL 2402, PSYC 2301, and ENGL 1301.
  7. Students are ineligible for admission if at the time of application transcripts reflect more than one (1) D or F in a nursing course or nursing curriculum science course (BIOL 2401, 2402, and 2420) taken within five years of the application deadline. This includes RNSG, VNSG, and BSN courses regardless if the course is in the ACC ADN curriculum. The student is ineligible even if the course is repeated and the student earns an A, B, or C in the subsequent attempt.
  8. A student is ineligible for admission to the ACC nursing program if he/she has been dismissed for unprofessional or unethical conduct while previously enrolled in a health occupation program.

Selection for Admission

Admission to the ADN program is competitive. After the application deadline, applicants are ranked primarily according to the number of completed courses in the ADN curriculum, the GPA of those courses, and HESI A2 test scores. Priority admission is given to applicants who: 1) achieved high standardized test scores (HESI A2) and 2) earned a high GPA in the ADN curriculum academic coursework. Additional consideration is given to applicants who: 1) complete ADN curriculum courses without repeating or withdrawing from courses in the last five years from the application deadline; 2) complete ADN curriculum courses at ACC; 3) completed BIOL 2420; 4) hold a current certificate in a health profession (for example, but not limited to: CNA, CMA, EMT, dental assistant, etc.) 5) hold a Bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited college or university; and, 6) reside in the ACC tax district.

Program information:

  1. BIOL 2401 and BIOL 2402 must be taken within five years of application deadline. BIOL courses completed more than five years prior to the application deadline must be repeated or the student may demonstrate competency through the National League for Nursing (NLN) exam. This exam may only be taken once and if the student does not pass on the first attempt the courses will have to be repeated. Contact the Testing Center for information about the examination.
  2. Requirements to be completed after initial acceptance and before the start of the program include:
    1. Complete the prerequisite courses of BIOL 2401BIOL 2402, PSYC 2301, and ENGL 1301.
    2. Complete two criminal background checks. A social security number is required and will be verified during the background checks. The first is a DPS/FBI background check that the Texas Board of Nursing requires on all accepted nursing students. The second background check is done by a private firm and is required by clinical affiliates. A satisfactory criminal background check as determined by the requirements of the Texas BON and clinical affiliates is required for final admission into the ADN program. See ADN application packet for further information about BON background check procedures. Individuals with felonies are ineligible for admission. A person with a criminal history other than a felony may be eligible to be considered for admission if:
      1. The Texas Board of Nursing indicates in a letter that a petition for "Declaratory Order" (DO) was received and the individual is eligible to apply to take the licensure examination. The BON website, www.bon.texas.gov, contains eligibility questions and the link to the Nurse Portal to submit the DO. And,
      2. The ADN clinical affiliates permit the person to practice in their agency.
    3. CPR Certification from American Heart Association: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Health Care Providers.
    4. Physical examination. Form provided by the department.
    5. Up-to-date immunizations as required by the Texas Department of Health and clinical affiliates (measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, varicella, hepatitis "B" series of 3 immunizations, seasonal flu; positive titer is required for hepatitis B following semester 1 and others as required by clinical affiliates). 
    6. Negative tuberculin screen (yearly) [Initial testing must be a 2-step skin test or Quantiferon Gold blood test.]
    7. Negative drug test.
    8. Purchase of a school uniform and lab supplies.
    9. Health insurance is required beginning the 2nd semester for Traditional students and the 1st semester for Transition students.
  3. Each student is required to pay for standardized, computerized exams administered throughout the program, as well as testing software used to administer unit and final exams.
  4. Students attend various clinical sites in the Houston/Galveston region throughout the program. Clinical times/days vary each semester and include weekend and evening hours.
  5. Statutory law (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53) requires the Alvin Community College nursing and allied health programs to notify prospective applicants and future healthcare professionals a licensing/credentialing authority may suspend or revoke a license/credential, disqualify a person from receiving a license/credential, or deny to a person the opportunity to take a licensing/credentialing examination on the grounds that the person has been convicted of certain criminal behavior.

Transfer of Nursing Credits:

  1. Courses accepted for transfer must be similar in content and credit to the ACC course(s).
  2. No grade below a "B" in any (RNSG) nursing course is accepted for transfer.
  3. Transfer applicants who, in the last 2 years, were enrolled in a professional nursing program and attempted/completed nursing course(s) with clinical component(s), are considered for admission on a space available basis. Applicants must:
    1. Apply and meet the criteria for admission to the ADN program at ACC during an application period.
    2. Have a written recommendation from the Dean/Director of their previous nursing program.
    3. Demonstrate competency in previously completed nursing courses prior to admission through our Prior Learning Assessment process. Applicants will take a written departmental examination and a clinical skills competency demonstration to be awarded transfer credit. The tests will be administered once per semester and evaluated by a faculty review committee. Contact the department for test dates.

Progression / Dismissal Policies:

  1. Students will abide by the current ADN admission, curriculum, and program requirements at the time they are admitted to the Associate Degree Nursing Program.
  2. Once a student has enrolled in the ADN Program, all nursing courses and related courses must be completed in proper sequence as shown in the catalog and degree plan. The program must be completed within three (3) years of the initial acceptance.
  3. No grade below a C in nursing curriculum science and nursing courses will be acceptable for progression.
  4. In order to receive a grade of C, a minimum grade of 75% must be attained in each nursing course.
  5. Once enrolled in the ADN program, it is expected that enrollment is continuous. Students with a break in enrollment must apply for readmission. A break in enrollment includes: 1) Receipt of a grade of D, F, or W in a nursing course requiring a repeat of the course, 2) Withdrawal from a nursing course with a clinical component, and/or 3) Non-enrollment in a nursing course for one (1) or more semesters (excluding summer).
  6. A student who withdraws from a nursing course with a related clinical component must withdraw from the corresponding course.
  7. A student who receives a grade of D or F in a nursing course with a related clinical component will be assigned the grade of "R" in the corresponding course. The student must, if eligible, re-enroll in both the theory and clinical sections of that course. Each semester's co-requisite RNSG courses must be completed with a minimum grade of C in order to progress.
  8. A student must achieve an overall GPA of 2.0 in all courses in the nursing curriculum in order to progress to the next nursing course.
  9. A student will be terminated from the ADN Program if he/she has received more than one (1) D or F in a nursing course. This includes courses which have been repeated and a passing grade (A, B, or C) received in a subsequent attempt, regardless of the college or university where the initial grade (D or F) was received.
  10. Co-requisite courses must be completed for a student to progress to the next semester.
  11. A student requiring hospitalization, has a serious illness, is pregnant, or sustains an injury will be required to obtain a written statement from his/her physician verifying the health status of the student is adequate for performance in class, lab, and in the clinical setting. A student may not be allowed to return to the clinical or lab area if he/she is unable to perform the required job functions or if he/she must be on medications which may interfere with his/her ability to perform satisfactorily.
  12. Due to the physical nature of the profession, technical standards, and job requirements, there is no "light duty" in this program. If a student cannot perform the required duties for any reason, the student will be required to withdraw in good standing and return as soon as the student is cleared by his/her physician, when the course is offered again. A plan for completion will be established that meets the needs of the student and the college time line.
  13. A student may be dismissed from the program for demonstration of unprofessional and unsafe behaviors as described in the Texas Administrative Code 215.8. When dismissed, a grade of "F" will be assigned to the RNSG course where the behavior occurred. A "W" will be assigned to any other RNSG courses taken concurrently.
  14. A student may be dismissed from the program for academic dishonesty. When dismissed, a grade of "F" will be assigned to the RNSG course where the behavior occurred. A "W" will be assigned to any other RNSG courses taken concurrently.
  15. Notification by the BON that a student has been involved in criminal activity may result in temporary withdrawal or termination from the ADN program.

Readmission: Students may be readmitted to the ADN Program ONCE after withdrawal or failure of a course.

  1. Once enrolled in the ADN program, a student who receives a D, F, or W in a nursing course or drops a nursing course, must, if eligible apply for readmission.
  2. Students are readmitted on a space available basis and on the student's compliance with conditions/requirements established by the Director. These requirements may include remediation in academic course work, repeat of nursing course(s) previously taken, or documentation of recovery from illness. Inability to meet the readmission stipulations may be grounds for denial or permanent dismissal from the program.
  3. Students applying for readmission must apply in writing to the Director at least 14 days prior to the semester in which readmission is desired. Include the following information: Date of withdrawal from the Program; primary reason(s) for withdrawal from the Program; understanding of the requirements for readmission at the time of withdrawal; ways in which recommendations at the time of withdrawal have been completed; and what has been done to improve chances for successful completion.
  4. A student who has withdrawn from the ADN program during the first semester must reapply during the program application period and be ranked with that applicant pool.
  5. Evidence of competency in previously completed nursing courses will be required prior to readmission. This will be accomplished through an examination and a clinical skills competency demonstration. Tests will be administered once per semester and evaluated by a faculty review committee. Contact the Director for test dates.
  6. Re-entering students must abide by the current admission, curriculum and program requirements of the department.
  7. Following a second withdrawal from the program, a student will not be readmitted. Students may petition for re-admission when a withdrawal occurs because of a catastrophic event. The student must have had a passing grade in the RNSG course at the time of withdrawal. Petition will be considered by a faculty review committee.
  8. The department reserves the right to deny readmission to a student who discontinued the program due to academic dishonesty or exhibited unsafe and/or unprofessional behavior. The decision to deny or accept readmission will be made by a faculty review committee.
  9. Students who are unsuccessful in a professional nursing program and subsequently complete a vocational nursing program are eligible to apply to the LVN-ADN Transition track. Eligibility penalties for the "D's, F's or W's" earned in nursing courses while previously enrolled in the professional nursing program are eliminated for these students. Grades of "D" or "F" still apply for BIOL.
  10. All courses must be completed within three (3) years of original enrollment date into the ADN program.

The following courses have been adopted by THECB as part of a Field of Study Curriculum in Nursing: BIOL 2401, BIOL 2402, BIOL 2420, PSYC 2301, PSYC 2314, MATH 1342, ENGL 1301, ENGL 1302, and BIOL 1322/HECO 1322  . The Nursing FOS is intended for the generic baccalaureate degree seeking student.

Second Year

    First Semester

  • or
  • Select 3 Course Credits from Language, Philosophy and Culture Core Curriculum  **+
  • RNSG 2462 - Clinical III RN
  • RNSG 2514 - Integrated Care - Complex Needs
  • Semester Credits: 12

    Total Credits Required for A.A.S. Nursing: 60

    + Denotes core requirement. Speak with Department Chair or Pathways Advisor for proper course selection.

    * Capstone Course

    Δ Field of Study Curriculum course.

    ** May be taken prior to admission to the ADN program.

    Priority admission for applicants who:

    1. achieved high standardized test scores, and
    2. earned a high grade point average in the ADN curriculum academic coursework.

    Statutory law (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53) requires the Alvin Community College nursing and allied health programs to notify prospective applicants and future healthcare professionals a licensing/credentialing authority may suspend or revoke a license/ credential, disqualify a person from receiving a license/credential, or deny to a person the opportunity to take a licensing/credentialing examination on the grounds that the person has been convicted of certain criminal behavior.

      Nursing Transition (LVN-to-ADN), A.A.S.

      (CIP 51.3801)

      281-756-5630

      Purpose: The transition program is to provide a pathway from Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) to Associate Degree Nursing (ADN). The program seeks to prepare graduates who are critical thinkers and competent practitioners. As Associate Degree Nursing graduates, they will practice within the defined roles and competencies of the Associate Degree nurse. In response to community and societal needs, they will be prepared to care for individuals and families in structured settings. Courses are presented according to their content and effectiveness toward successful fulfillment of state board competencies.

      Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to make application to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

      Program Requirements: A new class will begin each summer semester. Qualified applicants will be admitted according to space available. To be considered for admission to the Transition pathway of the Associate Degree Nursing Program, the applicant must:

      1. Apply to Alvin Community College and fulfill the admission requirements of the college.
      2. Apply to the ADN Program during an application period and meet admission and program requirements for that program.
      3. Hold an unencumbered license to practice vocational nursing in the State of Texas by the nursing application deadline, or be scheduled to graduate from the ACC/VN program. Current students must take and pass NCLEX-PN prior to enrolling in Fall semester courses.
      4. Have recent work experience, preferably in an acute care setting, as a licensed vocational nurse, or:
        1. scheduled to graduate from the ACC/VN program.
        2. graduated within one year from a state approved vocational nursing program.
      5. Complete prerequisite courses before the start of the nursing program.
      6. Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better in nursing and nursing curriculum courses.
      7. HESI-A2 exam within 5 years of nursing application deadline. Minimum scores: 78 on reading, 78 for cumulative score.

      Selection for Admission: Admission to the LVN-to-ADN program is competitive. After the application deadline, applicants are ranked primarily according to the number of completed courses in the ADN curriculum, the GPA of those courses, and HESI A2 test scores. Priority admission is given to applicants who: 1) achieved high standardized test scores (HESI A2); 2) earned a high grade point average in the ADN curriculum academic coursework; 3) complete ADN curriculum courses without repeating or withdrawing from courses in the last five years from the application deadline; 4) complete ADN curriculum courses at ACC; 5) hold a Bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited college or university; and 6) reside in the ACC tax district. Additional Program details can be found on the "Nursing" Catalog pages.

      Second Semester

    • or
    • Select 3 Course Credits from Language, Philosophy and Culture Core Curriculum **+
    • RNSG 2462 - Clinical III RN
    • RNSG 2514 - Integrated Care - Complex Needs
    • Semester Credits: 12

      Total Credits Required for A.A.S. Nursing Transition: 60

      + Denotes core requirement. Speak with Department Chair or Pathways Advisor for proper course selection.

      ** May be taken prior to admission to the ADN program.

      * Capstone Course

      Δ Field of Study curriculum course

      Statutory law (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53) requires the Alvin Community College nursing and allied health programs to notify prospective applicants and future healthcare professionals a licensing/credentialing authority may suspend or revoke a license/credential, disqualify a person from receiving a license/credential, or deny to a person the opportunity to take a licensing/credentialing examination on the grounds that the person has been convicted of certain criminal behavior.

        Nursing Assistant Certificate, CERT1

        (CIP 51.3902)

        281-756-5630

        Program Overview: ADN students who successfully complete their first semester of the program will be awarded a Level 1 certificate (ADN-Nursing Assistant). This will then make the student eligible to sit for the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam.

        Must be enrolled in ADN Program. Students apply for a CNA certificate after completing the first semester of the ADN program.

        Total Credits Required for Nursing Assistant Certificate: 16

        + Denotes core requirement. Speak with Department Chair or Pathways Advisor for proper course selection.

        ** May be taken prior to admission to the ADN program.

        Δ Field of Study curriculum course

        Statutory law (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53) requires the Alvin Community College nursing and allied health programs to notify prospective applicants and future healthcare professionals a licensing/credentialing authority may suspend or revoke a license/ credential, disqualify a person from receiving a license/credential, or deny to a person the opportunity to take a licensing/credentialing examination on the grounds that the person has been convicted of certain criminal behavior.

          Vocational Nursing Certificate, CERT2

          (CIP 51.3901.)

          281-756-5630

          Purpose: The purpose of the Alvin Community College Vocational Nursing Program (ACC VN Program or VN Program) is to provide a Texas Board of Nursing (BON) approved educational curriculum designed to prepare students to be eligible to write the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) after the student has successfully completed the VN program. Those passing this examination will become licensed to practice Vocational Nursing in the State of Texas. The program delivers the instruction necessary for the LVN to function, at an entry level, in the following roles: as a member of the profession, as a provider of patient centered care, as a patient safety advocate, and as a member of the healthcare team. LVN practice is a directed scope of practice. VN licensure enables the nurse to care for clients with predictable health care needs in a variety of healthcare settings while under the supervision of a registered nurse, advance practice registered nurse, physician's assistant, physician, dentist or podiatrist.

          Accreditation: The program is fully approved by the Texas Board of Nursing (BON). The stated mission of the BON is to protect and promote the welfare and safety of the people of Texas by ensuring that each person holding a license as a nurse in the State of Texas is competent to practice safely.

          Procedure for Program Application for Conditional Admission: A new class starts at the beginning of each 11-week summer semester. Enrollment is limited to approximately 50 qualified applicants per class. The number of students accepted will depend upon instructor and clinical site availability. To be considered for conditional admission to the ACC VN program, the applicant MUST complete the following steps by the application deadline:

          1. Be fully admitted to the college, then submit a completed online VN application at www.alvincollege.edu/vocational-nursing during application period. See the VN web page for exact dates of application period. Applications may be accessed on the web page on the first day of the application period and will not be accepted after the close of the application period.
          2. Attend an applicant meeting. Check the VN web page for meeting location, dates, and times. The last meeting is conducted the week of the application deadline date. All initially required application documents (3-5 below) should be turned in prior to the application deadline. Those arriving late to an applicant meeting may not receive credit for attendance. This meeting is for applicants only.
          3. All applicants must be TSI met by the application deadline in order to be accepted into the program.
          4. All applicants must provide an original High School Diploma, or official High School transcript, or a GED certificate, or official college transcripts showing completion of 12 credit hours of core courses attained while attending an accredited college. The VN program does not accept foreign high school or college credits until they have been evaluated for U.S. equivalency by an ACC approved transcript evaluation services provider. You will find a list of approved companies in the "Academic Policies & Regulations" section of this catalog. The original transcript evaluation document must be submitted to the VN department.
          5. Submit HESI A2 exam scores to the VN department. Applicants are required to take the following sections of the exam: Math, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary & Knowledge, Grammar and Anatomy & Physiology. VN applicants may combine section scores from different HESI exams. If an applicant wishes to repeat the entire exam, they may do so. Students may submit two exams from a twelve-month period. Each exam submitted must be at least 90 days from any prior HESI exam section attempt for the new section score to be considered. HESI A2 scores for all required test sections must be less than five years old as of the application deadline. If the exam is taken at ACC, the VN department automatically receives a score report. If the exam is taken elsewhere, you must have the results sent to nursing@alvincollege.edu. It may take up to 2 weeks for us to receive them. Plan accordingly, we MUST receive the exam scores no later than the application deadline. ACC VN does not accept HESI score reports from applicants.
          6. Submit proof of Hepatitis-B (HBV) vaccine injection #1, or proof of HBV immunity (a titer).

          Selection for Admission: Admission to the VN program is competitive. There are no prerequisite courses for the VN program. After the application deadline, applicants are primarily ranked according to their HESI-A2 exam scores. Applicants must achieve a reading comprehension score of 70% or better and a cumulative score of 65% or better. Additional admission preference is given to applicants achieving the required HESI exam scores if they:

          1. Live in-district for Alvin Community College. To determine if you reside within the district, contact the Admissions Office at 281-756-3531.
          2. Have completed BIOL 2401 - Anatomy and Physiology I and BIOL 2402 - Anatomy and Physiology II by the application deadline. The grade attained in each course must be a "C" or better and must be no more than 5 years old as of the application deadline.
          3. There are no minimum score requirements for the Grammar, Vocabulary & General Knowledge, or Math sections of the HESI exam. Those scoring 85% or higher on the Math section will receive additional admission consideration.
          4. Hold a certificate in a health profession (for example, but not limited to: CNA, CMA, EMT, Dental Assistant, etc.)

          Program Information:

          1. The program consists of both academic courses and associated clinical learning experiences as required by the BON. The student must demonstrate the ability to meet the course objectives identified in each academic course plus the learning and skill performance objectives identified for each clinical course in order to progress in the program.
          2. The ACC VN program is affiliated with a variety of healthcare facilities in order to provide the clinical experiences required by the BON. The days and shifts available for clinical vary from facility to facility. Clinical assignments can be in any geographical area in Brazoria County or the counties surrounding it. Clinical hours can be scheduled for any hour on any day of the week.
          3. The CNA/Med Aide-VN Bridge program (Bridge program) is available for applicants that meet all requirements for the VN program listed under Procedure for Program Application, have current Nurse Aide certification and Medication Aide certification from Texas Health and Human Services, and have a minimum of six months full-time employment with a long-term care facility. Approximately ten qualified applicants will be admitted to the Bridge program per class. The first semester will be taught through Continuing Education Workforce Development and will start in June. Students must take VNSG 1420 Anatomy and Physiology for Allied Health while completing the first Bridge program semester unless BIOL 2401 and BIOL 2402 have been completed with a C or better grade within the five years prior to the Bridge program application period. Upon successful completion of the first semester of the Bridge program, students will complete the Prior Learning Assessment process to receive credit for first semester VN courses (VNSG 1122, VNSG 1160, VNSG 1227, and VNSG 1423). See Earning Credit through Prior Learning Experience in the ACC catalog for PLA process information. Students will then complete the second and third semesters of the VN program (Fall and Spring semesters). The Bridge program is subject to the same Progression and Dismissal Policies of the VN program.
          4. The following (a-g) are requirements that must be completed after conditional acceptance in order to become fully accepted. There are specific instructions and deadlines for meeting them in the packet sent to all conditionally accepted applicants.
            1. Attend the VN Program new class orientation in May.
            2. Have a healthcare provider complete, sign, and date a "Statement of Fitness," VN department will provide the form.
            3. Pay for and complete two criminal background checks. Results of background checks must be deemed as satisfactory according to VN Program policy, the requirements of VN clinical affiliates, and must meet the eligibility criteria, as determined by the BON that will allow graduated students to write for the NCLEX-PN. A social security number is required and will be verified during the background checks. One of the background checks is done by a private firm and is required by clinical affiliates. The other is a DPS/FBI background check that the Texas Board of Nursing requires for all nursing students. See VN Program Information and Application Instructions at alvincollege.edu/vocational-nursing for further information about BON background check procedures and BON Licensure Eligibility Questions.
              Note: Persons convicted of a felony offense, those who have received deferred adjudication for a felony offense, and those appealing a felony conviction, are not eligible for admission to the ACC VN Program. The ACC VN program defines the term "conviction" as BON rule 213.1.12 does. This policy is applicable even when a prospective student has filed a "Petition for Declaratory Order" with the BON and received BON consent to sit for the NCLEX-PN after graduation from an approved VN program. The VN program reserves the right to dismiss, at any time, any student. The reasons for dismissal include, but are not limited to, the infractions listed in BON rule # 214.8. The VN program adheres to ACC Academic Dishonesty & Integrity policies and procedures.
            4. Pay for and submit a urine drug screen. The screen must be negative in order to maintain accepted student status.
            5. Obtain CPR certification from the American Heart Association, it must be for Basic Life Support (BLS) Providers.
            6. Provide proof of the following by the date noted in the acceptance packet:
              1. Up-to-date immunizations or titers that show proof of immunity for - measles mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (pertussis booster required after age 18), varicella, all 3 injections of the Hepatitis B vaccine series or a titer that shows proof of immunity to HEP B, seasonal flu vaccine when available for the upcoming flu season, and negative tuberculin screen [Quantiferon blood test or two-step PPD] (yearly). 
            7. Pay for lab supplies.
            8. Order and pay for VN uniforms.

          Transfer Students / Readmission Students

          1. Applicants from ADN or VN programs not affiliated with ACC are considered new students. They must complete an application, meet with the VN Department Coordinator, and meet and abide by the current VN admission, curriculum, and program requirements. Courses from other ADN or VN programs will be evaluated for transfer on an individual basis by the VN Department Coordinator. The courses must be no older than 1 year as of the application deadline with a minimum grade of B. If the VN Department Coordinator finds the course content suitable for transfer, evidence of competency in the previously completed nursing courses will be required before the courses are accepted for transfer. This will be accomplished by a written exam and may include clinical skills competency demonstration. The student must pass the written competency testing with a 75% or better in order for the courses to be accepted. Skills competency demonstration is evaluated on a pass-fail basis.
          2. ACC ADN students who wish to join the VN program may apply. If the student must enter the VN program in the first semester, they must complete an application and meet with the VN Department Coordinator. Admission is not guaranteed; it is dependent upon admission slots available after ranking and acceptance of non-ADN applicants. If the number of ADN applicants exceeds available slots, a ranking system may be used to determine placement in available slots. ADN applicants must meet and abide by the current VN admission, curriculum, and program requirements.
          3. ACC ADN students who wish to enter the VN program in the fall semester will be placed on a wait list after filling out an application. The students will be admitted on a space available basis if they meet and abide by the current VN admission, curriculum, and program requirements. Evidence of competency in previously completed nursing courses will be required before the courses are accepted. This will be accomplished by a written exam and may include clinical skills competency demonstration. The student must pass the written testing with a score of 75% or better in order to be admitted. If skills competency demonstration is required, it will be evaluated on a pass/fail basis.
          4. ACC VN students who fail to complete the program in the first semester and wish to make a second attempt must reapply to the program. They will then be ranked for admission along with all other applicants. They must meet & abide by the current VN admission, curriculum, and program requirements.
          5. All students are allowed two attempts, maximum, to complete the program. For returning VN students entering in the second or third semester, the second attempt must be made within 1 year of the previous withdrawal from the program.
          6. ACC VN students who complete the summer semester successfully, but fail to complete the fall semester may return for one further attempt. The second attempt must be made within 1 year of the previous withdrawal from the program. They must complete a new program application, and must meet and abide by the current VN admission, curriculum, and program requirements. The students will then be placed on a wait list and admitted as space permits. Evidence of competency in previously completed VN courses will be required before the courses are accepted. This will be accomplished by a written exam and may include clinicals skills competency demonstration. The student must pass the written competency testing with a 75% or better in order to be admitted. Skills competency demonstration is evaluated as pass/fail. The ACC VN program does not readmit applicants who:
          • failed clinically, or;
          • were dismissed for professional behavior issues, or;
          • committed acts of academic dishonesty

          Progression and Dismissal Policies:

          1. The VN program is a block scheduled program with one entry point and one exit point. A new cohort enters on the first day of the summer semester and exits the following May. All courses are taken in the same sequence and at the same time by all students. Course sequencing is shown in the curriculum below.
          2. Students must attain a "C" or better in all required courses. A 75% is the lowest score accepted as a "C".
          3. In classes that have both a classroom and clinical component, the student must attain a 75 % or greater in both components. If a student receives a grade of less than 75% in either component, the student cannot continue either course or any co-requisite courses. The student must withdraw from the program and, if eligible, reapply to the program within the required time-frame.
          4. Absences in the VN program are not excused. The student is allowed a specific number of absences in each course. The maximum allowable absences in summer semester (11 week) is two per academic course, and one total for clinical. The maximum allowable absences in the fall and spring semesters 16-week courses is two per academic course and two total for clinical. The maximum allowable absences in the fall and spring semesters 8-week courses is one absence per academic course.

          Total Credits Required for Vocational Nursing Certificate: 44

          * Capstone Course

          Statutory law (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 53) requires the Alvin Community College nursing and allied health programs to notify prospective applicants and future healthcare professionals a licensing/credentialing authority may suspend or revoke a license/credential, disqualify a person from receiving a license/credential, or deny to a person the opportunity to take a licensing/credentialing examination on the grounds that the person has been convicted of certain criminal behavior.


            ACC has agreements with several colleges and universities for graduates to complete their RN-BSN degree. In some cases, this may even include concurrent enrollment. Our graduates can transfer to the following higher education institutions and more to obtain their BSN degree: 

            Galen College of Nursing
            Lamar University
            Midwestern State University
            Sam Houston State University
            Texas A&M – Corpus Christi
            Texas Tech University – Health Sciences Center
            Texas Woman’s University
            University of Houston
            University of Houston – Clear Lake
            University of Phoenix
            University of Texas – Arlington
            University of Texas - Tyler

            You can search for transfer opportunities in Texas and other states by visiting www.registerednursing.org and NursePractitionerOnline.com.

            Click here to search for RN-to-BSN Programs. Click here to search for RN-to-MSN Programs.

            *How Much Will the Program Cost?

            The approximate cost for tuition, fees, required textbooks and supplies for the entire 2-year ADN program of RNSG courses is $7,500 if you live in-district, $9,300 if you live out-of-district and $7,000/$8,000 for the 1-year LVN-ADN Transition program.

            Costs for non-RNSG courses in the ADN degree are extra. Costs for the following items are also extra: physical exam, tuberculosis test, immunizations and immunity tests (titers), health insurance, a smart device (tablet or smart phone), optional textbooks, and commuting costs to clinical sites including gasoline and parking fees. The extra costs are too variable to include in the above estimate; you will need to determine the amounts of these extra costs yourself based on your personal situation.

            For more information on education costs, payment options, payment plans, deadlines and more, visit our Tuition and Fees section.

            Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.  For more information, visit our Financial Aid section.

            *Alvin Community College may change tuition rates and other fees without notice or when so directed by the Board of Regents.

            Pathways logo

            COLLEGE & CAREER PATHWAYS

            Associate Degree Nursing is part of our Health Career Pathway. Click the box below to see other Health programs that may interest you.

            Health Career Pathways


            back to top

            " class="hidden">科润电力