The Registered Nursing (ADN) and Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) Programs prepare students to care for patients in hospitals and other healthcare agencies through coursework in humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and the nursing discipline. These programs emphasize nursing theory and clinical practice for direct patient care. Students may earn the above-named associate degree by completing a certificate of achievement and the general education courses required for MiraCosta College's Associate in Arts degree (see Associate Degrees). Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to promote and maintain a safe environment by integrating nursing process and skill competency to intervene therapeutically for the health of the patient.