RN Programs in Palos Hills, Illinois

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Palos Hills, Illinois

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Palos Hills, Illinois? You’re in the right place! This guide will help you navigate the process of becoming an RN, from understanding program prerequisites to finding the best local schools and employment opportunities. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Palos Hills?

Palos Hills is a charming suburb of Chicago, known for its serene parks and welcoming community. As an RN in Palos Hills, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Illinois is around $75,000 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. Plus, living in Palos Hills means you’re just a short drive away from the bustling city life of Chicago!

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Completion of any required entrance exams (such as TEAS)
• Background check and immunizations

Be sure to check the specific requirements of each school you’re interested in, as they can vary.

Typical Program Curriculum

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

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

In addition to coursework, you’ll participate in clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in Palos Hills, Illinois

Here are some local schools offering RN programs near Palos Hills:

1. Moraine Valley Community College
   • Address: 9000 W. College Pkwy, Palos Hills, IL 60465
   • Program Details: Moraine Valley offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • Cost: Tuition varies; please check the Moraine Valley RN Program Page for current rates.
2. City Colleges of Chicago – Richard J. Daley College
   • Address: 7500 S. Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60652
   • Program Details: Located about 10 miles from Palos Hills, Richard J. Daley College offers an ADN program with a strong emphasis on community health.
   • Cost: Tuition varies; please check the Daley College RN Program Page for current rates.
3. Saint Xavier University
   • Address: 3700 W. 103rd St, Chicago, IL 60655
   • Program Details: Saint Xavier offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The program combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical experiences.
   • Cost: Tuition varies; please check the Saint Xavier RN Program Page for current rates.

RN Employment Opportunities in Palos Hills

Once you’ve completed your RN program, you’ll find several major healthcare facilities in and around Palos Hills where you can start your career. Here are a few:

1. Palos Community Hospital
   • Location: Palos Heights, IL
   • Details: This hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and oncology. Check their Careers Page for job openings.
2. Advocate Christ Medical Center
   • Location: Oak Lawn, IL
   • Details: A major teaching hospital known for its cardiology and trauma services. Visit their Employment Opportunities Page for more information.
3. Little Company of Mary Hospital
   • Location: Evergreen Park, IL
   • Details: This hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, from maternity care to advanced surgical procedures. Explore their Careers Page for job listings.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Illinois, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain a license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Additionally, you may consider obtaining national certifications in specialized areas of nursing to enhance your career prospects.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Palos Hills can vary widely. For example, community college programs like Moraine Valley may be more affordable than private universities like Saint Xavier. Financial aid options include federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA and check with your school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re already a licensed RN in another state and planning to move to Illinois, you’ll be pleased to know that Illinois participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Illinois without having to obtain a new license, provided your home state is also a compact member. For more details, visit the NCSBN website.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Palos Hills, Illinois, is a rewarding career choice with numerous opportunities. Take the first step today by researching local RN programs and reaching out to schools for more information. Your journey to a fulfilling career in nursing starts now!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Palos Hills 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 Palos Hills?

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.