RN Programs in Dorchester, Massachusetts
Get your RN degree in Dorchester, Massachusetts - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Dorchester, Massachusetts
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Dorchester, Massachusetts? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant community. From understanding what an RN does to exploring local RN programs and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.
Why Become an RN in Dorchester
Dorchester, a historic neighborhood in Boston, offers a unique blend of cultural diversity and rich history. Known for its beautiful parks, such as Franklin Park, and its vibrant neighborhoods, Dorchester is a fantastic place to start your nursing career. The average salary for an RN in Massachusetts is around $96,630 per year, and the job growth rate for RNs is projected to be 6% from 2021 to 2031. For more in-depth job outlook information, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics RN page.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
To enroll in an RN program in Dorchester, you’ll typically need:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18
- Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
- Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
- A clean background check
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs offer a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Mental Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings
RN Training Programs in Dorchester, Massachusetts
- Labouré College of Healthcare
- Address: 303 Adams St, Milton, MA 02186
- Program Description: Labouré College offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. This program includes both theoretical instruction and hands-on clinical practice.
- Cost: Approximately $36,000 for the entire program
- Labouré College RN Program
- Roxbury Community College
- Address: 1234 Columbus Ave, Roxbury Crossing, MA 02120
- Program Description: Offering an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Roxbury Community College combines classroom learning with clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities.
- Cost: Around $12,000 for in-district students
- Roxbury Community College RN Program
- University of Massachusetts Boston
- Address: 100 William T. Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125
- Program Description: The BSN program at UMass Boston is designed for students seeking a comprehensive nursing education. The program includes advanced courses and extensive clinical practice.
- Cost: Approximately $58,000 for in-state students
- UMass Boston RN Program
RN Employment Opportunities in Dorchester
- Carney Hospital
- Address: 2100 Dorchester Ave, Dorchester, MA 02124
- Description: Carney Hospital is a full-service community hospital offering a wide range of medical services. It’s a great place for new RNs to begin their careers.
- Carney Hospital Employment Opportunities
- Boston Medical Center
- Address: 840 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
- Description: Located nearby in the South End, Boston Medical Center is the largest safety-net hospital in New England, providing ample opportunities for RNs to work in diverse healthcare settings.
- Boston Medical Center Careers
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital
- Address: 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115
- Description: As a major teaching hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital offers cutting-edge medical care and numerous career advancement opportunities for RNs.
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital Careers
RN Certification Requirements
To become an RN in Massachusetts, you must:
- Graduate from an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Apply for licensure through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
- Complete a background check
For detailed information, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Dorchester can range from $12,000 to $58,000, depending on the school and program type. Financial aid options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Federal Direct Loans
- Massachusetts state grants and scholarships
- Institutional scholarships offered by the schools
Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific options.
Licensure Reciprocity
Massachusetts is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Massachusetts-specific requirements.
Get Started Today
Becoming a Registered Nurse in Dorchester, Massachusetts, is an exciting and fulfilling career choice. With a variety of RN programs and employment opportunities available, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the healthcare field. Contact one of the local schools today to take the first step toward your new career!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Dorchester 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 Dorchester?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Massachusetts. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts.
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.