RN Programs in Leesburg, Florida

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Leesburg, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Leesburg, Florida? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Leesburg, from understanding what an RN does to exploring local RN programs and job opportunities.

Why Become an RN in Leesburg?

Leesburg, located in the heart of Central Florida, offers a picturesque setting with a blend of small-town charm and access to larger metropolitan areas. Known for its beautiful lakes and historic downtown, Leesburg provides a supportive community for those looking to start their nursing career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for RNs in Florida is around $68,000 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. This makes Leesburg a great place to pursue a stable and fulfilling career in nursing.

Prerequisites for RN programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some typical prerequisites. These usually include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology and chemistry)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (like the TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

Make sure to check the specific requirements of each program you’re interested in, as they can vary.

Typical program curriculum

RN programs generally cover a wide range of courses and clinical training to prepare you for the nursing field. You can expect to study subjects such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing

In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll complete supervised clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to gain hands-on experience.

RN Training Programs in Leesburg, Florida

Leesburg offers several excellent options for RN training programs. Here are three local schools where you can start your nursing career:

1. Lake-Sumter State College
   • Address: 9501 U.S. Hwy 441, Leesburg, FL 34788
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Lake-Sumter State College offers a comprehensive ADN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. Tuition costs approximately $112 per credit hour for in-state students.
   • RN Program Page
2. Beacon College
   • Address: 105 E Main St, Leesburg, FL 34748
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: Beacon College provides a BSN program designed to prepare students for a broad range of nursing roles. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
   • RN Program Page
3. AdventHealth University
   • Address: 671 Winyah Dr, Orlando, FL 32803 (approximately 50 miles from Leesburg)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: AdventHealth University offers a BSN program with a strong focus on holistic care and evidence-based practice. This program is well-suited for students willing to commute from Leesburg.
   • RN Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Leesburg

Leesburg is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are some key employers:

1. UF Health Leesburg Hospital
   • Address: 600 E Dixie Ave, Leesburg, FL 34748
   • Description: A part of the University of Florida Health system, this hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatments.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Leesburg Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 600 E Dixie Ave, Leesburg, FL 34748
   • Description: Known for its comprehensive healthcare services, this medical center is a significant employer of RNs in the area.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. AdventHealth Waterman
   • Address: 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares, FL 32778 (approximately 15 miles from Leesburg)
   • Description: This facility offers a variety of healthcare services and is part of the larger AdventHealth network.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Florida, you’ll need to meet both state and national certification requirements. These include:

• Completing an accredited nursing program
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Applying for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing

For more information on certification requirements, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and financial aid

The cost of RN programs in Leesburg can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 for an ADN program, while BSN programs may cost between $20,000 and $40,000. Financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, are often available to help offset these costs. Check with individual schools for specific financial aid opportunities.

Licensure reciprocity

Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving from another state, check with the Florida Board of Nursing for any additional requirements you may need to meet.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Leesburg, Florida, is a fantastic career choice with numerous opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Take the first step towards your nursing career by reaching out to one of the local schools mentioned above. Good luck, and we hope to see you in the healthcare field soon!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Leesburg 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 Leesburg?

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.