RN Programs in Lancaster, California
Get your RN degree in Lancaster, California - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Lancaster, California
Considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Lancaster, California? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through the journey from selecting an RN program to landing your first job. But first, what exactly does an RN do? In a nutshell, RNs are vital members of the healthcare team, responsible for patient care, administering medication, and collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Why Become an RN in Lancaster?
Lancaster is a vibrant city located in the Antelope Valley of the western Mojave Desert. With a blend of suburban and rural areas, it offers a unique setting for starting your nursing career. Lancaster is known for landmarks like the Lancaster Performing Arts Center and the Aerospace Walk of Honor.
The average salary for an RN in Lancaster is competitive, generally aligning with the statewide average. You can expect a salary range of around $70,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on your experience and the healthcare facility. The job outlook for RNs is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031. For more detailed information, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ RN job outlook page.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
- Completion of certain prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
- Passing an entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
- Background check and drug screening
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs generally include both classroom instruction and clinical training. Courses you can expect to take include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Pediatric Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings
RN Training Programs in Lancaster, California
Here are three local schools in Lancaster that offer RN programs:
- Antelope Valley College
- Address: 3041 W Ave K, Lancaster, CA 93536
- RN Program Page
- Description: Antelope Valley College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. The program is known for its comprehensive curriculum and strong clinical partnerships with local healthcare facilities. Tuition costs approximately $46 per unit for California residents.
- University of Antelope Valley
- Address: 44055 Sierra Hwy, Lancaster, CA 93534
- RN Program Page
- Description: The University of Antelope Valley offers both an ADN and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The programs emphasize hands-on clinical experience and personalized instruction. Tuition varies, and financial aid is available.
- Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health
- Address: 1237 N Mission Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90033 (approximately 70 miles from Lancaster)
- RN Program Page
- Description: This college offers an ADN program with a focus on preparing students for immediate employment in healthcare settings. Tuition is competitive, and the college offers various financial aid options.
RN Employment Opportunities in Lancaster
Lancaster hosts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:
- Antelope Valley Hospital
- Employment Opportunities
- Description: Located in the heart of Lancaster, this 420-bed hospital is one of the largest employers in the area. It offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services.
- Kaiser Permanente Lancaster Medical Offices
- Employment Opportunities
- Description: Kaiser Permanente is a well-known healthcare provider with various medical offices in Lancaster. They offer numerous opportunities for RNs in various specialties.
- High Desert Regional Health Center
- Employment Opportunities
- Description: This facility provides comprehensive outpatient services and is part of the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services. It is located in nearby Lancaster and offers several RN positions.
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)
For more details, visit the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Lancaster can vary. On average, tuition for an ADN program can range from $3,000 to $10,000, while BSN programs may cost between $20,000 and $40,000. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. 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 licensed in other NLC states to practice in California without obtaining additional licensure. However, RNs from non-compact states will need to meet California’s licensure requirements. For more information, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
Get Started Today
Ready to take the first step toward becoming an RN in Lancaster, California? Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and how to apply. Your journey to a rewarding career in nursing starts now!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Lancaster 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 Lancaster?
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.
RN Schools Near You & Online Near Lancaster, California
Antelope Valley Medical College
- 44201 10th St West Lancaster, CA 93534
Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
(661) 726-1911
College of the Canyons
- 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Programs: ADN, Phlebotomy, RN
(661) 259-7800
West Coast University
- 12215 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606
Programs: ADN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
(818) 299-5500
Los Angeles Valley College
- 5800 Fulton Avenue Valley Glen, CA 91401
Programs: ADN, RN
(818) 947-2600
Los Angeles City College
- 855 N. Vermont Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90029
Programs: ADN, CNA, Radiography, RN
(323) 953-4000
Los Angeles Pierce College
- 6201 Winnetka Ave. Woodland Hills, CA 91371
Programs: ADN, RN
(818) 719-6401
California State University
- 5151 State University Drive Los Angeles, CA 90032
Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
(323) 343-3000
Los Angeles County College of Nursing & Allied Health
- 1237 North Mission Road Los Angeles, CA 90033
Programs: ADN, RN
(323) 226-4911
East Los Angeles College
- 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez Monterey Park, CA 91754
Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, RN
(323) 265-8650
University of California, Los Angeles
- 405 Hilgard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90095
Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, LPN to BSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN
(310) 825-4321
Mount St Mary’s College
- 12001 Chalon Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90049
Programs: Accelerated BSN, ADN, BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
(310) 954-4000
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
- 400 West Washington Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015
Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
(213) 763-7000
Rio Hondo College
- 3600 Workman Mill Road Whittier, CA 90601
Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, Phlebotomy, RN
(562) 692-0921
Chaffey College
- 5885 Haven Avenue Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737
Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, Radiography, RN
(909) 652-6399
Santa Monica College
- 1900 Pico Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90405
Programs: ADN, RN
(310) 434-4000
Victor Valley College
- 18422 Bear Valley Road Victorville, CA 92395
Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
(760) 245-4271
Los Angeles Southwest College
- 1600 West Imperial Highway Los Angeles, CA 90047
Programs: ADN, RN
(323) 241-5321
California State University
- 5500 University Parkway San Bernardino, CA 92407
Programs: BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
(909) 537-5000
Long Beach City College
- 4901 East Carson Street Long Beach, CA 90808
Programs: ADN, LVN, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Phlebotomy, Radiography, RN
(562) 938-4560
American University of Health Sciences
- 1600 East Hill Street, Building #1 Signal Hill, CA 90755
Programs: BSN, RN
(562) 988-2278
California State University at Long Beach
- 1250 Bellflower Boulevard Long Beach, CA 90840
Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, LPN to BSN, MSN, Nursing Administration, Public Health Nursing, Radiation Therapy, RN, RN to BSN
(562) 985-4111
Los Angeles Harbor College
- 1111 Figueroa Place Wilmington, CA 90744
Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
(310) 233-4000
San Bernardino Valley College
- 701 South Mount Vernon Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92410
Programs: ADN, RN
(909) 384-4400
Golden West College
- 15744 Goldenwest Street Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Programs: ADN, RN
(714) 892-7711
Bakersfield College
- 1801 Panorama Drive Bakersfield, CA 93305
Programs: ADN, CNA, EMT Paramedic, LVN, Radiography, RN
(661) 395-4011
Loma Linda University
- 11370 Anderson Street Loma Linda, CA 92354
Programs: Accelerated BSN, ADN, BSN, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, Health Information Management-Bachelor's, LPN to BSN, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Nursing PhD, Phlebotomy, Physician Assistant, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
(909) 558-2850
California State University at Bakersfield
- 9001 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311
Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, RN, RN to BSN
(661) 654-2782
Saddleback College
- 28000 Marguerite Parkway Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Programs: ADN, EMT Paramedic, Phlebotomy, RN
(949) 582-4500
Santa Barbara City College
- 721 Cliff Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, LVN, Radiography, RN
(805) 965-0581