RN Programs in Tampa, Florida

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

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Tampa, Florida

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Tampa, Florida? This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right RN program and exploring employment opportunities in Tampa.

Why Become an RN in Tampa?

Tampa, known for its beautiful waterfront and vibrant neighborhoods like Ybor City and Hyde Park, offers a fantastic setting for starting your nursing career. The average salary for an RN in Tampa is approximately $68,000 per year, and the demand for nurses is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. For more detailed information on RN job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics RN page.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program in Tampa, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
• Completion of certain high school courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
• Passing a background check
• Some programs may require entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatrics
• Maternal and Newborn Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing

Clinical rotations provide hands-on experience in different healthcare settings, preparing you for real-world nursing.

RN Training Programs in Tampa, Florida

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Tampa:

1. Hillsborough Community College
   • Address: 4001 W Tampa Bay Blvd, Tampa, FL 33614
   • Program: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
   • Website: Hillsborough Community College Nursing Program
   • Description: This program offers a comprehensive curriculum preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Estimated cost: $10,000.
2. University of South Florida (USF) – College of Nursing
   • Address: 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Website: USF College of Nursing
   • Description: USF’s BSN program combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical practice. Estimated cost: $20,000.
3. Concorde Career Institute – Tampa
   • Address: 4202 W Spruce St, Tampa, FL 33607
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Website: Concorde Career Institute Nursing Program
   • Description: Concorde offers an accelerated ADN program designed to get students into the workforce quickly. Estimated cost: $40,000.

RN Employment Opportunities in Tampa

Tampa boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Tampa General Hospital
   • Website: Tampa General Hospital Careers
   • Description: Located on Davis Islands, Tampa General is a leading teaching hospital offering numerous nursing opportunities.
2. St. Joseph’s Hospital
   • Website: St. Joseph’s Hospital Careers
   • Description: Situated in the West Tampa area, St. Joseph’s is part of the BayCare Health System and is known for its comprehensive care services.
3. AdventHealth Tampa
   • Website: AdventHealth Tampa Careers
   • Description: Located in the University area, AdventHealth Tampa provides a wide range of specialty services and employs a large nursing staff.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Florida, you must:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Obtain a license from the Florida Board of Nursing

For more information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

RN program costs in Tampa can range from $10,000 to $40,000, depending on the school and program type. Financial aid options include:

• Federal and state grants
• Scholarships specific to nursing students
• Student loans
• Work-study programs

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs with a multistate license to practice in other compact states without additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Florida’s requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Tampa offers a promising future filled with opportunities. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward a rewarding nursing career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Tampa 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 Tampa?

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.