RN Programs in Rock Island, Illinois

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Rock Island, Illinois

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Rock Island, Illinois? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant city, from understanding the role of an RN to finding the right training programs and job opportunities.

Why Become an RN in Rock Island?

Rock Island, Illinois, is a beautiful city nestled along the Mississippi River. Known for its rich history and picturesque parks, Rock Island offers a charming and supportive community for aspiring nurses. The average salary for an RN in Rock Island is competitive, and the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for RNs is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029. You can check out more detailed information on the BLS website.

For more information about Rock Island, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, there are some prerequisites you’ll need to meet:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as biology, chemistry, and math
• Passing scores on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in Rock Island typically include 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
• Obstetric Nursing
• Psychiatric Nursing

Clinical training is an essential part of the curriculum, allowing you to gain practical experience in real healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in Rock Island, Illinois

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Rock Island:

1. Black Hawk College
   • Address: 6600 34th Ave, Moline, IL 61265
   • Program Description: Black Hawk College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Program Cost: Approximately $12,000 for in-district students
   • More Info: Black Hawk College Nursing Program
2. Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences
   • Address: 2122 25th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201
   • Program Description: Trinity College provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and patient care.
   • Program Cost: Approximately $45,000 for the entire program
   • More Info: Trinity College Nursing Program
3. Augustana College
   • Address: 639 38th St, Rock Island, IL 61201
   • Program Description: Augustana College offers a pre-nursing program that prepares students to transfer to a BSN program. It includes foundational coursework in the sciences and humanities.
   • Program Cost: Varies by program
   • More Info: Augustana College Nursing Pathways

RN Employment Opportunities in Rock Island

Rock Island is home to several major healthcare facilities that offer excellent employment opportunities for RNs:

1. UnityPoint Health – Trinity
   • Address: 2701 17th St, Rock Island, IL 61201
   • Description: UnityPoint Health is a leading healthcare provider in the Quad Cities, offering a wide range of medical services and specialties.
   • More Info: UnityPoint Health Careers
2. Genesis Medical Center
   • Address: 1520 W 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52806 (approximately 4 miles from Rock Island)
   • Description: Genesis Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility providing advanced medical care to the community.
   • More Info: Genesis Health System Careers
3. Rock Island County Health Department
   • Address: 2112 25th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201
   • Description: The Health Department provides public health services to the residents of Rock Island County, including immunizations, health education, and disease prevention.
   • More Info: Rock Island County Health Department

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Illinois, you must:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

For more information, visit the IDFPR website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Rock Island can vary widely. Associate Degree programs may cost between $10,000 and $20,000, while Bachelor’s Degree programs can range from $30,000 to $60,000. Financial aid options are available, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for specific information.

Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Illinois without obtaining additional licensure. If you are moving from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Illinois-specific requirements. More information can be found on the NCSBN website.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Rock Island, Illinois, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With the right education and training, you can embark on a fulfilling career that makes a difference in the lives of others. Contact one of the local schools today to start your journey toward becoming an RN!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Rock Island 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 Rock Island?

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.