RN Programs in San Bernardino, California

Get your RN degree in San Bernardino, California - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in San Bernardino, California

If you’re considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in San Bernardino, California, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an RN, from understanding prerequisites to finding the best local programs. Let’s dive into what you need to know to start your rewarding journey in healthcare.

Why Become an RN in San Bernardino?

San Bernardino, nestled in the heart of the Inland Empire, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is home to vibrant neighborhoods like Downtown San Bernardino and the historic Route 66 district. With a growing healthcare industry, San Bernardino is an excellent place to start your nursing career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in California is around $120,560 per year, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Most programs in San Bernardino require:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of specific entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening
• Basic CPR certification

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically offer a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Adult and Pediatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing

Clinical rotations are an essential part of the curriculum, providing real-world experience in various healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in San Bernardino, California

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in San Bernardino:

1. San Bernardino Valley College
   • Address: 701 S Mt Vernon Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92410
   • Program Description: San Bernardino Valley College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. The program includes coursework in nursing theory and clinical practice in local hospitals.
   • RN Program Page
2. California State University, San Bernardino
   • Address: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407
   • Program Description: CSUSB provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This comprehensive program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and includes community health rotations.
   • RN Program Page
3. Summit College
   • Address: 804 E Brier Dr, San Bernardino, CA 92408
   • Program Description: Summit College offers a Vocational Nursing to RN program, which is a bridge program designed for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) who wish to become RNs.
   • RN Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in San Bernardino

San Bernardino boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Dignity Health – Community Hospital of San Bernardino
   • Address: 1805 Medical Center Dr, San Bernardino, CA 92411
   • Description: A full-service hospital offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, maternity, and surgical services.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Loma Linda University Medical Center
   • Address: 11234 Anderson St, Loma Linda, CA 92354
   • Description: Located just a short drive from San Bernardino, Loma Linda University Medical Center is renowned for its advanced medical research and teaching hospital.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. San Bernardino County Department of Public Health
   • Address: 351 N Mountain View Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92415
   • Description: This public health organization offers numerous opportunities for RNs in community health and public health nursing.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

In California, RNs must be licensed by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). The certification requirements include:

• Completion of an accredited RN program
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Submission of fingerprints for a background check
• Completion of continuing education for license renewal

For more details, visit the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in San Bernardino varies. For example, an ADN program at a community college may cost around $6,000, while a BSN program at a university could range from $20,000 to $40,000. Financial aid options include federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Many schools also offer payment plans and work-study 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 a new license. However, RNs moving from non-NLC states must apply for licensure by endorsement and meet California’s specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse in San Bernardino, California? With the right education and training, you can achieve a fulfilling career in healthcare. Contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step towards your new career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer San Bernardino 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 San Bernardino?

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.