RN Programs in Cocoa, Florida

Get your RN degree in Cocoa, Florida - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Cocoa, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Cocoa, Florida? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding the perfect local training program in Cocoa.

Why Become an RN in Cocoa

Cocoa, Florida is a charming city located in Brevard County. Known for its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and beautiful Cocoa Beach, it’s a fantastic place to start your nursing career. The average salary for RNs in Florida is approximately $66,210 per year, and the job outlook is strong, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about Cocoa, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program in Cocoa, there are a few prerequisites you’ll need to meet:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of any required entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• Background checks and drug screenings

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically cover a range of courses designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Expect to encounter:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in Cocoa, Florida

Cocoa offers several excellent RN training programs. Here are three schools to consider:

1. Eastern Florida State College
   • Address: 1519 Clearlake Rd, Cocoa, FL 32922
   • Program Details: Offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training.
   • Cost: Approximately $3,000 per semester for in-state students.
   • Program Information
2. Keiser University
   • Address: 900 S Babcock St, Melbourne, FL 32901 (approximately 20 miles from Cocoa)
   • Program Details: Offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
   • Cost: Varies by program; financial aid is available.
   • Program Information
3. AdventHealth University
   • Address: 671 Winyah Dr, Orlando, FL 32803 (approximately 50 miles from Cocoa)
   • Program Details: Offers both ADN and BSN programs with a strong emphasis on clinical experience.
   • Cost: Approximately $15,000 per year.
   • Program Information

RN Employment Opportunities in Cocoa

Cocoa is home to several healthcare facilities where you can kickstart your nursing career:

1. Health First’s Cape Canaveral Hospital
   • Address: 701 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
   • Description: A community hospital offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Rockledge Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 110 Longwood Ave, Rockledge, FL 32955
   • Description: A full-service hospital providing comprehensive healthcare services.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. Parrish Medical Center
   • Address: 951 N Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32796 (approximately 20 miles from Cocoa)
   • Description: Known for its high-quality healthcare services and patient care.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Florida, you must:

• Graduate from an approved nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN examination
• Apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing
• Complete a background check

More details can be found on the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Cocoa, Florida, can vary widely:

• Community colleges like Eastern Florida State College offer more affordable options, around $3,000 per semester.
• Private institutions like AdventHealth University can cost upwards of $15,000 per year.

Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to help offset these costs. Make sure to check with your chosen institution’s financial aid office for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re moving to Florida from another state, you can take advantage of licensure reciprocity. Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. You will need to apply for endorsement through the Florida Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an RN in Cocoa, Florida? With a variety of local programs and a strong job market, there’s never been a better time to start. Contact a school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward your new career!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Cocoa 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 Cocoa?

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

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.