RN Programs in Belleville, Illinois

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Belleville, Illinois

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Belleville, Illinois? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Belleville, from understanding the role of an RN to exploring local RN programs, and even finding employment opportunities in the area.

Why Become an RN in Belleville?

Belleville, located in the heart of Illinois, offers a charming blend of small-town warmth and big-city amenities. With its historic downtown, beautiful parks, and proximity to St. Louis, Belleville is a wonderful place to live and work.

The average salary for RNs in Illinois is around $73,510 per year, and the demand for RNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This makes it an excellent time to enter the nursing field in Belleville. For more information about the city, visit the official Belleville website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. These typically include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• A clean background check

Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in subjects like biology, chemistry, and math.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally offer a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

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

Clinical training will give you real-world experience in various healthcare settings, preparing you for the diverse challenges you’ll face as an RN.

RN Training Programs in Belleville, Illinois

Here are some local schools offering RN programs in Belleville:

1. Southwestern Illinois College
   • Address: 2500 Carlyle Ave, Belleville, IL 62221
   • RN Program Page: Southwestern Illinois College Nursing Program
   • Description: SWIC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a rewarding nursing career. The program includes both classroom and clinical training.
2. St. Louis College of Health Careers
   • Address: 1297 North Highway Drive, Fenton, MO 63026 (approx. 25 miles from Belleville)
   • RN Program Page: St. Louis College of Health Careers Nursing Program
   • Description: Located just a short drive from Belleville, this college offers an ADN program focused on providing comprehensive nursing education and hands-on training.
3. Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College
   • Address: 4483 Duncan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110 (approx. 20 miles from Belleville)
   • RN Program Page: Goldfarb School of Nursing
   • Description: This institution offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to equip students with advanced nursing skills and knowledge. The program includes extensive clinical practice in various healthcare settings.

RN Employment Opportunities in Belleville

Belleville is home to several healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are a few major ones:

1. Memorial Hospital Belleville
   • Address: 4500 Memorial Dr, Belleville, IL 62226
   • Employment Opportunities Page: Memorial Hospital Careers
   • Description: A full-service hospital offering a wide range of medical services, Memorial Hospital is a top employer for RNs in the area. It’s located in the West End neighborhood.
2. St. Elizabeth’s Hospital
   • Address: 1 St Elizabeth’s Blvd, O’Fallon, IL 62269 (approx. 7 miles from Belleville)
   • Employment Opportunities Page: St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Careers
   • Description: Known for its excellent patient care, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital offers numerous opportunities for RNs. It’s located in the nearby city of O’Fallon.
3. Touchette Regional Hospital
   • Address: 5900 Bond Ave, Centreville, IL 62207 (approx. 10 miles from Belleville)
   • Employment Opportunities Page: Touchette Regional Hospital Careers
   • Description: This community-focused hospital provides a variety of healthcare services and is a significant employer of RNs in the region.

RN Certification Requirements

To become a certified RN in Illinois, you must:

1. Complete an accredited nursing program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
3. Apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

National certifications from organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) can also enhance your career prospects.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Belleville can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $15,000 for an ADN program, and between $20,000 and $40,000 for a BSN program. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, scholarships, and grants. Check with individual schools for specific financial aid opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving to Illinois from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the IDFPR.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Belleville, Illinois, is a rewarding career choice with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward your new career!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Belleville 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 Belleville?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Illinois. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Illinois. 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 Illinois.

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.