RN Programs in Niceville, Florida

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

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Niceville, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Niceville, Florida? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to become an RN in this charming city. From understanding what an RN does to exploring local training programs and job opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Niceville

Niceville, located in the Florida Panhandle, is known for its friendly community and beautiful natural surroundings. With its close proximity to the stunning beaches of the Emerald Coast, living and working in Niceville offers a unique blend of professional opportunity and quality of life. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Florida is around $69,510 annually, and the job growth rate is projected to be 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more information about Niceville, visit the city’s official website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:
– High School Diploma or GED: A basic educational requirement.
– Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
– Entrance Exams: Some programs may require tests like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
– Background Checks: A clean criminal background is usually required.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs combine classroom education with hands-on clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:
– Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
– Nursing-Specific Courses: Adult Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, and Mental Health Nursing.
– Clinical Training: Real-world experience in hospitals and clinics under the supervision of experienced nurses.

RN Training Programs in Niceville, Florida

Here are three local schools offering RN programs:

1. Northwest Florida State College
   • Address: 100 College Blvd, Niceville, FL 32578
   • Program Information: Northwest Florida State College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Program Cost: Tuition is approximately $104 per credit hour for in-state students.
   • Program Page
2. Fortis Institute – Pensacola
   • Address: 4081 East Olive Road, Pensacola, FL 32514
   • Program Information: Although slightly farther away, Fortis Institute offers an ADN program with comprehensive training and clinical rotations.
   • Program Cost: Tuition varies, so contact the school for specific details.
   • Program Page
3. University of West Florida
   • Address: 11000 University Pkwy, Pensacola, FL 32514
   • Program Information: The University of West Florida offers both BSN and RN-to-BSN programs. The curriculum includes both in-depth coursework and extensive clinical experience.
   • Program Cost: Tuition is approximately $218 per credit hour for in-state students.
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Niceville

Niceville is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment opportunities:

1. Twin Cities Hospital
   • Address: 2190 Highway 85 N, Niceville, FL 32578
   • Description: Twin Cities Hospital is a comprehensive healthcare provider offering a range of services including emergency care, surgical services, and more.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Eglin AFB Hospital
   • Address: 307 Boatner Rd, Eglin AFB, FL 32542
   • Description: Located nearby, Eglin AFB Hospital provides medical services to military personnel and their families.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. North Okaloosa Medical Center
   • Address: 151 E. Redstone Ave, Crestview, FL 32539
   • Description: This facility offers a variety of healthcare services and is a short drive from Niceville.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To work as an RN in Florida, you’ll need to meet the following certification requirements:
– NCLEX-RN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
– Florida Board of Nursing: Apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing.
– Continuing Education: Complete continuing education credits to maintain your license.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Niceville can vary widely. For example, Northwest Florida State College’s ADN program costs around $104 per credit hour for in-state students, while the University of West Florida’s BSN program is approximately $218 per credit hour. Financial aid options are available, including federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Florida from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Florida if you hold a multistate license from another NLC member state. For more details, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step? Becoming an RN in Niceville, Florida, is a fulfilling career choice with numerous opportunities. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and start your journey toward a rewarding career in nursing.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Niceville 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 Niceville?

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.