RN Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

Get your RN degree in Birmingham, Alabama - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Birmingham, Alabama

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Birmingham, Alabama? You’re in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to become an RN, highlight local training programs, and provide valuable insights into employment opportunities in the area. But first, let’s start with what an RN does.

A Registered Nurse (RN) provides and coordinates patient care, educates patients and the public about various health conditions, and offers advice and emotional support to patients and their family members. RNs are crucial in the healthcare system, working in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.

Why Become an RN in Birmingham?

Birmingham, known as the “Magic City,” is rich in history and culture. Nestled in the heart of Alabama, this city offers a unique blend of urban and southern charm. If you’re thinking about becoming an RN here, you’re in for a rewarding career in a city that values healthcare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Birmingham is competitive, and the job outlook is promising with projected job growth.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Birmingham, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background checks and drug screenings
• Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in subjects like biology and chemistry.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful nursing career. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Ethics
• Pharmacology
• Health Assessment

In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll participate in clinical training at local hospitals or healthcare facilities, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in patient care.

RN Training Programs in Birmingham, Alabama

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Birmingham:

1. University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing
   • Address: 1701 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294
   • RN Program: UAB School of Nursing
   • Description: UAB is renowned for its comprehensive nursing programs, offering both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in nursing. The program emphasizes clinical excellence and innovative research.
   • Cost: Varies by program; financial aid available.
2. Birmingham-Southern College
   • Address: 900 Arkadelphia Rd, Birmingham, AL 35254
   • RN Program: Birmingham-Southern College
   • Description: This liberal arts college offers a robust nursing program in partnership with UAB, providing a unique blend of liberal arts education and clinical training.
   • Cost: Approximately $35,000 per year; financial aid options available.
3. Jefferson State Community College
   • Address: 2601 Carson Rd, Birmingham, AL 35215
   • RN Program: Jefferson State Community College
   • Description: Jefferson State offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program focuses on practical skills and community health.
   • Cost: Approximately $4,500 per semester; financial aid available.

RN Employment Opportunities in Birmingham

Birmingham boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are a few notable ones:

1. UAB Hospital
   • Website: UAB Hospital Careers
   • Description: UAB Hospital is one of the top medical centers in the nation, known for cutting-edge research and high-quality patient care. It’s located in the Southside neighborhood.
2. Children’s of Alabama
   • Website: Children’s of Alabama Careers
   • Description: This hospital is dedicated to pediatric care and is one of the largest children’s hospitals in the country. It’s situated in the Medical District.
3. Brookwood Baptist Health
   • Website: Brookwood Baptist Health Careers
   • Description: Located in Homewood, this health system includes several hospitals and offers a wide range of employment opportunities for RNs.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Alabama, you’ll need to meet both state and national certification requirements:

• NCLEX-RN Exam: All aspiring RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
• Alabama Board of Nursing: You must apply for licensure through the Alabama Board of Nursing, which includes submitting an application, paying fees, and undergoing a background check.
• Continuing Education: Alabama requires RNs to complete continuing education credits to maintain their licensure.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Birmingham varies widely depending on the institution and the type of program. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Community Colleges: $4,000 – $6,000 per semester
• Universities: $30,000 – $40,000 per year

Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school to explore options like the Pell Grant, state scholarships, and work-study programs.

Licensure Reciprocity

Alabama participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Alabama without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Alabama Board of Nursing. This process typically involves verifying your current license, completing a background check, and meeting any additional state-specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an RN in Birmingham, Alabama? Take the first step today by researching local schools and reaching out to their admissions offices. The healthcare field is waiting for dedicated professionals like you. Good luck!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Birmingham RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in Birmingham?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Alabama. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Alabama. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Alabama.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.