RN Programs in Fairfield, California

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Fairfield, California

Are you thinking about starting a fulfilling career in healthcare? Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Fairfield, California, could be the perfect path for you. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about RN programs and what it takes to become an RN in Fairfield.

Why Become an RN in Fairfield

Fairfield, California, known for its vibrant community and proximity to both San Francisco and Sacramento, offers a promising environment for aspiring RNs. From beautiful parks like Allan Witt Park to the bustling Solano Town Center, Fairfield has something for everyone. The average salary for an RN in Fairfield is around $110,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more information on the job outlook for RNs, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Minimum age of 18
– Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology
– Passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
– Background checks and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You can expect courses in:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Microbiology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Pharmacology
– Mental Health Nursing
– Pediatric Nursing
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in Fairfield, California

Fairfield has several excellent options for RN training programs. Here are three notable choices:

1. Solano Community College
   • Location: 4000 Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield, CA 94534
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Solano Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful nursing career. The program includes classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations.
   • Cost: Approximately $46 per unit for California residents
   • Solano Community College RN Program
2. California State University, Sacramento
   • Location: 6000 J St, Sacramento, CA 95819 (about 40 miles from Fairfield)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: This BSN program provides an in-depth education in nursing, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical experience. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles and advanced practice.
   • Cost: Approximately $17,000 per year for California residents
   • CSU Sacramento Nursing Program
3. University of California, Davis
   • Location: 2570 48th St, Sacramento, CA 95817 (about 45 miles from Fairfield)
   • Program: Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN)
   • Description: UC Davis offers a MEPN for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree who wish to enter the nursing profession. This accelerated program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and advanced practice roles.
   • Cost: Approximately $60,000 for the entire program
   • UC Davis Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Fairfield

Fairfield is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. NorthBay Medical Center
   • Location: 1200 B Gale Wilson Blvd, Fairfield, CA 94533
   • Description: NorthBay Medical Center is a full-service hospital offering comprehensive medical care, including emergency services, surgery, and maternity care.
   • NorthBay Medical Center Careers
2. Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center
   • Location: 1 Quality Dr, Vacaville, CA 95688 (about 10 miles from Fairfield)
   • Description: This facility provides a range of healthcare services, including specialty care, surgery, and mental health services.
   • Kaiser Permanente Careers
3. Sutter Solano Medical Center
   • Location: 300 Hospital Dr, Vallejo, CA 94589 (about 15 miles from Fairfield)
   • Description: Sutter Solano offers a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and oncology.
   • Sutter Health Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in California, you must:
– Graduate from an accredited nursing program
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
– Apply for licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)
– Complete fingerprinting and a background check

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Fairfield can vary widely. Community college programs like Solano Community College are more affordable, costing around $46 per unit, while universities like UC Davis can cost upwards of $60,000 for the entire program. Financial aid options include federal grants, student loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Be sure to check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. However, if you’re moving to California from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the California BRN.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Fairfield, California, is a rewarding decision with endless possibilities. Take the first step today by reaching out to one of the local schools listed above. Your future in nursing awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Fairfield 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 Fairfield?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in California. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in California. 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 California.

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.