RN Programs in Ft. Pierce, Florida
Get your RN degree in Ft. Pierce, Florida - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Ft. Pierce, Florida
Are you thinking about starting a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Ft. Pierce, Florida? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. From understanding what an RN does to exploring local RN programs and training options, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in!
Why Become an RN in Ft. Pierce
Ft. Pierce, known as the “Sunrise City,” is a beautiful coastal town in Florida. Its charming downtown, stunning beaches, and vibrant community make it a great place to live and work. The healthcare industry in Ft. Pierce is booming, with plenty of opportunities for RNs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Florida is approximately $72,000 per year, and the job growth for this profession is projected to be 9% from 2020 to 2030.
For more information about Ft. Pierce, you can visit the official city website.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Generally, these include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Being at least 18 years old
- Completing required entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
- Passing a background check
- Having up-to-date immunizations
These requirements ensure that you’re prepared both academically and personally for the rigors of an RN program.
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs are designed to provide comprehensive training in nursing. You can expect to take courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Mental Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll also complete clinical training in healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience that is crucial for your future career.
RN Training Programs in Ft. Pierce, Florida
Here are some local schools offering RN programs in or near Ft. Pierce:
- Indian River State College
- Address: 3209 Virginia Ave, Ft. Pierce, FL 34981
- RN Program: Indian River State College RN Program
- Description: Indian River State College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training. Tuition costs vary, and financial aid is available.
- Keiser University
- Address: 9400 SW Discovery Way, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 (approx. 12 miles from Ft. Pierce)
- RN Program: Keiser University RN Program
- Description: Keiser University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program provides a more in-depth education in nursing and prepares students for leadership roles. Tuition costs and financial aid options can be found on their website.
- Eastern Florida State College
- Address: 1519 Clearlake Rd, Cocoa, FL 32922 (approx. 70 miles from Ft. Pierce)
- RN Program: Eastern Florida State College RN Program
- Description: Eastern Florida State College offers an ADN program with comprehensive nursing training. The program includes classroom courses and clinical practice. Tuition details and financial aid information are available on their website.
RN Employment Opportunities in Ft. Pierce
Once you’ve completed your RN program, you’ll find several major healthcare facilities in Ft. Pierce where you can start your career:
- Lawnwood Regional Medical Center
- Address: 1700 S 23rd St, Ft. Pierce, FL 34950
- Employment Opportunities: Lawnwood Regional Medical Center Careers
- Description: Lawnwood Regional Medical Center is a full-service hospital offering a range of healthcare services. It’s a great place for new RNs to gain experience and grow their careers.
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital
- Address: 1800 SE Tiffany Ave, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
- Employment Opportunities: HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Careers
- Description: Located just a short drive from Ft. Pierce, this hospital provides a wide range of services and has numerous opportunities for RNs.
- Cleveland Clinic Martin Health
- Address: 200 SE Hospital Ave, Stuart, FL 34994
- Employment Opportunities: Cleveland Clinic Martin Health Careers
- Description: Cleveland Clinic Martin Health is a part of the renowned Cleveland Clinic network, offering top-notch healthcare services and excellent career opportunities for RNs.
RN Certification Requirements
In Florida, RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed. Additionally, Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. For more information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Ft. Pierce varies depending on the institution and the type of program. On average, tuition can range from $3,000 to $10,000 per year for ADN programs and $20,000 to $40,000 for BSN programs. Financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, are available to help offset these costs. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific details.
Licensure Reciprocity
If you’re moving to Florida from another state and already hold an RN license, you’ll be pleased to know that Florida participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Florida without obtaining a new license, provided your home state is also an NLC member. Additional information can be found on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an RN in Ft. Pierce, Florida, is a fantastic decision. With its beautiful surroundings, growing healthcare industry, and excellent educational opportunities, Ft. Pierce is a great place to start your nursing journey. Take the first step today by contacting one of the local schools and beginning your path to becoming a Registered Nurse.
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Ft. Pierce 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 Ft. Pierce?
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.