RN Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii
Get your RN degree in Honolulu, Hawaii - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Honolulu, Hawaii
Are you dreaming of a fulfilling career in healthcare? Becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Honolulu, Hawaii, might be the perfect path for you. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your journey, from understanding what an RN does to finding local RN programs and employment opportunities.
Why Become an RN in Honolulu?
Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and professional opportunities. With its stunning beaches, historic landmarks like Pearl Harbor, and bustling neighborhoods such as Waikiki, Honolulu is an attractive place to live and work.
The healthcare sector in Honolulu is robust, with a high demand for skilled RNs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Hawaii is approximately $104,830 per year, and the job growth for RNs is projected to be strong in the coming years.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before enrolling in an RN program in Honolulu, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Typically, these include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
- Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry, and math)
- Passing an entrance exam (e.g., TEAS)
- Background check and drug screening
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs in Honolulu will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful nursing career. Expect a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Core courses often include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Mental Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Adult Health Nursing
RN Training Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii
Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Honolulu:
- University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Address: 2500 Campus Rd, Honolulu, HI 96822
- RN Program Page: University of Hawaii at Manoa Nursing
- Description: The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The curriculum includes extensive clinical training and opportunities for research. Tuition and fees vary, so check their website for the most current information.
- Hawaii Pacific University
- Address: 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813
- RN Program Page: Hawaii Pacific University Nursing
- Description: Hawaii Pacific University provides both BSN and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. Their programs focus on developing critical thinking and clinical skills. Tuition details are available on their website.
- Kapiolani Community College
- Address: 4303 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI 96816
- RN Program Page: Kapiolani Community College Nursing
- Description: Kapiolani Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program is known for its affordability and strong clinical partnerships. Check their site for tuition costs.
RN Employment Opportunities in Honolulu
Honolulu boasts several premier healthcare facilities where RNs can find rewarding careers:
- The Queen’s Medical Center
- Location: Downtown Honolulu
- Employment Opportunities: The Queen’s Medical Center Careers
- Description: The Queen’s Medical Center is the largest private hospital in Hawaii. It offers a wide range of specialty services and has a strong commitment to patient care and research.
- Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center
- Location: Moanalua
- Employment Opportunities: Kaiser Permanente Careers
- Description: This medical center is part of the larger Kaiser Permanente network and is known for its integrated approach to healthcare.
- Straub Medical Center
- Location: Downtown Honolulu
- Employment Opportunities: Straub Medical Center Careers
- Description: Straub Medical Center is a part of Hawaii Pacific Health and offers comprehensive services, including emergency care and specialized treatments.
RN Certification Requirements
To practice as an RN in Hawaii, you must obtain state licensure. Here’s a brief overview of the requirements:
- Completion of an accredited RN program
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Submitting an application to the Hawaii Board of Nursing
- Completing fingerprinting and a background check
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Honolulu can vary widely. Tuition for ADN programs at community colleges may range from $3,000 to $6,000 per year, while BSN programs at universities can cost between $10,000 and $20,000 per year. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Check with individual schools for specific financial aid opportunities.
Licensure Reciprocity
Hawaii participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Hawaii without obtaining additional licensure. However, if you are moving from a non-compact state, you will need to meet Hawaii’s licensure requirements. More details can be found on the Hawaii Board of Nursing.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an RN in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an exciting and rewarding journey. With a range of educational programs, ample employment opportunities, and a beautiful locale, there’s never been a better time to pursue your dream. Contact a school today to get started on your path to becoming a registered nurse!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Honolulu 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 Honolulu?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Hawaii. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Hawaii. 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 Hawaii.
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.