RN Programs in West Lafayette, Indiana

Get your RN degree in West Lafayette, Indiana - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in West Lafayette, Indiana

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in West Lafayette, Indiana? You’ve come to 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 exploring local training programs and employment opportunities.

Why Become an RN in West Lafayette

West Lafayette is a wonderful place to start your nursing career. Known for being the home of Purdue University, this city combines academic excellence with a friendly community vibe. If you want more details about the city, check out the official West Lafayette website.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses in Indiana earn an average annual salary of around $64,860, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more information, you can visit the BLS RN job outlook page.

Prerequisites for RN programs

To enroll in an RN program in West Lafayette, you’ll typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• A clean background check
• Up-to-date immunizations

Make sure to check with specific schools for their exact requirements.

Typical program curriculum

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

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

Clinical rotations in local hospitals and healthcare facilities will provide you with practical experience.

RN Training Programs in West Lafayette, Indiana

Here are some local schools offering RN programs:

1. Purdue University School of Nursing
   • Location: 610 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Details: Purdue’s School of Nursing offers a comprehensive BSN program with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
   • Website: Purdue University School of Nursing
2. Ivy Tech Community College – Lafayette Campus
   • Location: 3101 S Creasy Ln, Lafayette, IN 47905
   • Program: Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
   • Details: Ivy Tech’s ASN program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Website: Ivy Tech Community College
3. St. Elizabeth School of Nursing
   • Location: 1508 Tippecanoe St, Lafayette, IN 47904
   • Program: Diploma in Nursing
   • Details: St. Elizabeth offers a diploma program with a strong emphasis on clinical experience and compassionate care.
   • Website: St. Elizabeth School of Nursing

RN Employment Opportunities in West Lafayette

Once you complete your RN program, you’ll find several employment opportunities in and around West Lafayette. Here are some major healthcare facilities:

1. IU Health Arnett Hospital
   • Location: 5165 McCarty Ln, Lafayette, IN 47905
   • Details: A major healthcare provider offering various nursing positions. Visit their employment page for current openings.
2. Franciscan Health Lafayette East
   • Location: 1701 S Creasy Ln, Lafayette, IN 47905
   • Details: This hospital offers comprehensive health services and is always in need of qualified RNs. Check out their careers page.
3. River Bend Hospital
   • Location: 2900 N River Rd, West Lafayette, IN 47906
   • Details: Specializing in mental health services, this facility offers unique opportunities for RNs. Visit their employment page.

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Indiana, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the Indiana State Board of Nursing requirements. For more information, visit the Indiana State Board of Nursing.

Cost and financial aid

The cost of RN programs in West Lafayette varies. For example:

• Purdue University: Approximately $10,000 per year for in-state students.
• Ivy Tech Community College: About $4,500 per year.
• St. Elizabeth School of Nursing: Around $20,000 for the entire program.

Financial aid options include federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. Don’t forget to fill out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid.

Licensure reciprocity

Indiana is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in Indiana to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. For RNs moving from non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Indiana State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a rewarding journey that offers numerous opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Take the first step by contacting one of the local schools mentioned above and start your path toward a fulfilling career in nursing!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer West Lafayette 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 West Lafayette?

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

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.