RN Programs in East Peoria, Illinois

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in East Peoria, Illinois

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in East Peoria, Illinois? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from local RN programs to certification requirements and job opportunities. Let’s dive in and explore how you can embark on this fulfilling journey!

Why Become an RN in East Peoria?

East Peoria, located in the heart of Illinois, offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city is home to beautiful parks like Fondulac Park and the bustling Levee District shopping area. Becoming an RN in East Peoria means you’ll be part of a supportive community with a growing need for healthcare professionals.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Registered Nurses is around $75,000 annually, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. This promising outlook makes East Peoria an excellent place to start your nursing career.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require proof of high school graduation or an equivalent.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some schools require passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Checks: Background checks and drug screenings are often mandatory.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in East Peoria generally include a mix of coursework and hands-on clinical training. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Mental Health Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Clinical Rotations: Practical experience in hospitals and healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in East Peoria, Illinois

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in East Peoria:

1. Illinois Central College (ICC)
   • Address: 1 College Drive, East Peoria, IL 61635
   • Program Description: ICC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical practice.
   • Cost: Approximately $12,000 for in-district students.
   • ICC Nursing Program
2. Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
   • Address: 511 NE Greenleaf St, Peoria, IL 61603 (approx. 5 miles from East Peoria)
   • Program Description: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with comprehensive training, including simulation labs and clinical rotations.
   • Cost: Approximately $25,000 per year.
   • Saint Francis College of Nursing
3. Bradley University
   • Address: 1501 W Bradley Ave, Peoria, IL 61625 (approx. 7 miles from East Peoria)
   • Program Description: Bradley University offers a BSN program that integrates liberal arts education with professional nursing training.
   • Cost: Approximately $34,000 per year.
   • Bradley University Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in East Peoria

East Peoria offers several prominent healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. UnityPoint Health – Methodist
   • Address: 221 NE Glen Oak Ave, Peoria, IL 61636
   • Description: A major hospital providing comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
   • UnityPoint Health Careers
2. OSF Saint Francis Medical Center
   • Address: 530 NE Glen Oak Ave, Peoria, IL 61637
   • Description: A leading healthcare facility known for its trauma center, children’s hospital, and advanced medical services.
   • OSF Saint Francis Careers
3. Kindred Hospital Peoria
   • Address: 500 W Romeo B Garrett Ave, Peoria, IL 61605
   • Description: A long-term acute care hospital specializing in treating critically ill patients who require extended hospital stays.
   • Kindred Hospital Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Illinois, you must:

• Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
• Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Ensure your program is approved by the Illinois Board of Nursing.
• Submit an Application for Licensure: Available through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
• Background Check: Complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in East Peoria varies:

• Community Colleges: Around $12,000 for an ADN program.
• Private Universities: Up to $34,000 per year for a BSN program.

Financial aid options include:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Federal Student Loans
• State Scholarships: Offered through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
• Institutional Scholarships: Available through individual schools.

Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other compact states without additional licensure. For RNs moving to Illinois from non-compact states, you must apply for licensure by endorsement through the IDFPR and meet Illinois-specific requirements, such as completing a criminal background check.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step toward becoming a Registered Nurse in East Peoria, Illinois? Contact a local RN program today to get started on your journey. With the right education and training, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling and impactful nursing career!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer East Peoria 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 East Peoria?

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.