RN Programs in River Grove, Illinois

Get your RN degree in River Grove, Illinois - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in River Grove, Illinois

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in River Grove, Illinois? You’re in the right place! This guide will help you navigate the process of becoming an RN in this charming village, from understanding local RN programs to uncovering employment opportunities.

Why Become an RN in River Grove

River Grove, located in Cook County, Illinois, is a wonderful place to start your nursing career. Known for its friendly community and proximity to Chicago, River Grove offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. You can explore the Village of River Grove website to learn more about the local amenities and community.

The average salary for RNs in the Chicago metropolitan area, which includes River Grove, is approximately $77,000 per year, and the job market is robust. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for RNs is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, there are a few prerequisites you need to meet. Typically, you’ll need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• To be at least 18 years old
• To pass entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• A clean background check and up-to-date immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs combine classroom instruction with clinical training to ensure you have both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Courses typically include:

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

Additionally, clinical rotations in various healthcare settings provide hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced nurses.

RN Training Programs in River Grove, Illinois

If you’re ready to start your journey, here are some local schools offering RN programs:

1. Triton College
   • Address: 2000 Fifth Ave, River Grove, IL 60171
   • RN Program Page
   • Triton College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities. Tuition costs approximately $4,500 per year for in-district students.
2. City Colleges of Chicago – Wilbur Wright College
   • Address: 4300 N Narragansett Ave, Chicago, IL 60634 (about 5 miles from River Grove)
   • RN Program Page
   • Wilbur Wright College provides an ADN program with comprehensive nursing education and clinical practice. Tuition costs around $5,000 per year for in-district students.
3. Resurrection University
   • Address: 1431 N Claremont Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 (about 10 miles from River Grove)
   • RN Program Page
   • Resurrection University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The BSN program is known for its rigorous curriculum and extensive clinical rotations. Tuition is approximately $29,000 per year.

RN Employment Opportunities in River Grove

Once you’ve completed your RN program, you’ll find several major healthcare facilities in and around River Grove where you can begin your nursing career:

1. Loyola University Medical Center
   • Address: 2160 S 1st Ave, Maywood, IL 60153 (about 5 miles from River Grove)
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Loyola University Medical Center is a renowned teaching hospital offering a wide range of services. It provides excellent opportunities for new RNs to gain experience in various specialties.
2. Presence Resurrection Medical Center
   • Address: 7435 W Talcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60631 (about 6 miles from River Grove)
   • Employment Opportunities
   • This facility is part of the AMITA Health network and offers a supportive environment for new nurses with numerous specialties and departments.
3. Rush University Medical Center
   • Address: 1653 W Congress Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60612 (about 12 miles from River Grove)
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Rush University Medical Center is a top-ranked hospital known for its research and patient care. It provides a dynamic environment for RNs to grow professionally.

RN Certification Requirements

In Illinois, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) oversees nursing licensure in the state. You can find more information on their official website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in River Grove varies. Community colleges like Triton College and Wilbur Wright College offer more affordable options, while private institutions like Resurrection University tend to be more expensive. However, numerous financial aid options are available, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Illinois from another state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the IDFPR. Illinois is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. More details can be found on the NCSBN website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in River Grove, Illinois, is an exciting and fulfilling journey. With the right education and training, you’ll be well-prepared to make a difference in the lives of your patients. 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 River Grove 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 River Grove?

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.