The Inland Empire's healthcare systems are actively pushing experienced LVNs to advance: registered nurses earn substantially more, take on broader clinical responsibility, and are the credential hospitals increasingly hire for at the bedside.
Kaiser Permanente's Ontario Medical Center and the wider network of San Bernardino and Riverside county hospitals give newly licensed RNs immediate options across acute care, surgical services, and specialty units.
For working LVNs in Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, and Riverside, a local bridge program is the fastest practical route to RN licensure without starting nursing school over.
Imagine America has partnered with Carrington College in Ontario, CA, whose Associate Degree in Nursing Advanced Placement Track — the LVN to RN Bridge — holds approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing. It's built specifically for licensed LVNs who want to become RNs without repeating foundational coursework.
About Imagine America Foundation (IAF)
The Imagine America Foundation (IAF) is a nonprofit organization supporting students pursuing career-oriented education at recognized trade schools and career colleges across the U.S. Since 1982, the Foundation has helped students navigate the financial aspects of technical and vocational training.
IAF provides scholarship programs including the Imagine America High School Scholarship for graduating seniors, the Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP) for adult learners, and the Military Award Program (MAP) for veterans. The Foundation also offers financial literacy guidance, career exploration tools, and resources for choosing the right program.
Over $10 million in tuition assistance is provided annually to students attending career and technical colleges nationwide.
Start Your LVN to RN Bridge Career with Carrington College
Carrington's LVN to RN Bridge at Ontario credits your existing LVN license and experience toward an Associate Degree in Nursing. Depending on program and location, licensed LVNs can complete the bridge in as few as 8 to 12 months and sit for the NCLEX-RN.
- As few as 8–12 months for licensed LVNs (varies by program and location)
- California BRN-approved Advanced Placement Track
- No repeated fundamentals — your LVN training counts
- Leads to an Associate Degree in Nursing and NCLEX-RN eligibility
How the Bridge Works
The Advanced Placement Track places licensed LVNs directly into advanced nursing coursework — medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing, and leadership — building on the foundation your LVN license already proves.
Licensure and Credentials
Graduates earn an Associate Degree in Nursing and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN. RNs who want to continue can move into Carrington's online, CCNE-accredited RN to BSN completion program.
Why Advance from LVN to RN
RNs take on assessment, care planning, and supervisory responsibilities that LVN scope doesn't cover — and the pay difference in California is significant, with RNs among the state's best-compensated healthcare professionals.
Career Outlook in the Inland Empire
California employs more RNs than any state, and Inland Empire hospital growth keeps recruiting pressure high. Bridge graduates typically move into acute care, emergency, and specialty roles quickly, often with the employers where they completed clinical rotations.
Training Services
- Advanced Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Maternal-Child Health Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Nursing Leadership Concepts
- Clinical Simulation Training
- Supervised Clinical Rotations
- NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation
- Academic Credit for LVN Licensure
Take the First Step Toward Your Career Today
A strong foundation from the right training program sets the stage for a successful career. Explore training programs, meet expert instructors, and discover how quality education can lead to a rewarding future.
Advance to RN TodayFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the LVN to RN bridge take at Carrington Ontario?
Licensed LVNs can complete the bridge in as few as 8 to 12 months, depending on program and location — significantly faster than the full 23-month ADN program.
What are the requirements to enter the bridge program?
The Advanced Placement Track is designed for currently licensed LVNs. Your license and prior training substitute for foundational coursework; contact admissions for full entrance requirements.
Is the bridge program BRN-approved?
Yes. Carrington Ontario's Associate Degree in Nursing Advanced Placement Track (LVN to RN Bridge) holds approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Are scholarships available for bridge students?
Yes. Imagine America Foundation scholarships are available to qualifying adult learners and military members attending Carrington College — a strong fit for working LVNs returning to school. Create a free profile to see what you qualify for.
