RN Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
Get your RN degree in Overland Park, Kansas - online & campus-based options available.
Contact a school today for more info.
Becoming a Registered Nurse in Overland Park, Kansas
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Overland Park, Kansas? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding the best local RN programs available. Let’s dive in!
Why Become an RN in Overland Park?
Overland Park is a vibrant city known for its excellent quality of life, family-friendly neighborhoods, and top-notch healthcare facilities. With landmarks like the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and the bustling Downtown Overland Park area, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. The average salary for RNs in Overland Park is competitive, often reflecting the national average, and the job growth for RNs is projected to be robust in the coming years. For more on job outlook, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on RNs.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
To enroll in an RN program, you’ll typically need:
– A high school diploma or GED
– A minimum age of 18 years
– Completion of prerequisite courses in subjects like biology and chemistry
– Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
– A clean background check
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs usually include:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Microbiology
– Pharmacology
– Nursing Ethics
– Clinical Nursing Skills
– Hands-on clinical rotations in various healthcare settings
These courses prepare you for the diverse responsibilities you’ll face as an RN, from patient care to administering medications.
RN Training Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
Here are three local schools in Overland Park offering RN programs:
- Johnson County Community College (JCCC)
- Address: 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210
- RN Program Page
- Description: JCCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a comprehensive curriculum that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program is known for its affordability and high NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- MidAmerica Nazarene University
- Address: 2030 E College Way, Olathe, KS 66062 (approximately 10 miles from Overland Park)
- RN Program Page
- Description: This university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that combines rigorous academics with hands-on clinical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in nursing.
- University of Kansas Medical Center
- Address: 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66160 (approximately 15 miles from Overland Park)
- RN Program Page
- Description: KU Medical Center offers a BSN program renowned for its research opportunities and advanced clinical training. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient-centered care.
RN Employment Opportunities in Overland Park
Overland Park boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:
- AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
- Employment Opportunities
- Description: Located in the Merriam neighborhood, this facility offers a wide range of medical services and has a strong reputation for quality care and patient satisfaction.
- Overland Park Regional Medical Center
- Employment Opportunities
- Description: Situated in the heart of Overland Park, this hospital is part of the HCA Midwest Health network and provides comprehensive healthcare services, from emergency care to specialized surgeries.
- St. Luke’s South Hospital
- Employment Opportunities
- Description: Located in the Leawood neighborhood, this hospital offers a wide range of services and is known for its excellent cardiac care and stroke treatment programs.
RN Certification Requirements
To become a licensed RN in Kansas, you must:
– Graduate from an accredited nursing program
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
– Apply for licensure through the Kansas State Board of Nursing
– Kansas State Board of Nursing
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs can vary widely. At JCCC, the ADN program may cost around $10,000 for in-state students, while a BSN program at MidAmerica Nazarene University might be closer to $30,000 per year. Financial aid options, including federal grants, scholarships, and loan programs, are available to help manage these costs.
Licensure Reciprocity
Kansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC member states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving to Kansas from another state, you may need to meet specific requirements, such as background checks or additional coursework.
Get Started Today
Becoming an RN in Overland Park, Kansas, is a rewarding career path with numerous opportunities. Take the first step by reaching out to local schools and exploring their RN programs. Your future in nursing awaits!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Overland Park 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 Overland Park?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Kansas. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Kansas. 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 Kansas.
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.