RN Programs in Bel Air, Maryland

Get your RN degree in Bel Air, Maryland - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Bel Air, Maryland

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Bel Air, Maryland? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right local RN program for you. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Bel Air

Bel Air is a charming town in Harford County, Maryland, known for its historic downtown, scenic parks, and community-focused atmosphere. With the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, becoming an RN in Bel Air offers a promising career path with job stability and growth opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs is approximately $75,330 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some prerequisites. Generally, these include:

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

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically encompass a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a glimpse of what you might expect:

• Foundational Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology
• Nursing Courses: Nursing Fundamentals, Pharmacology, Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals and other healthcare settings
• Specialty Areas: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Mental Health Nursing

RN Training Programs in Bel Air, Maryland

Bel Air offers several reputable RN training programs. Here are three local options:

1. Harford Community College
   • Address: 401 Thomas Run Rd, Bel Air, MD 21015
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Harford Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Program Page
2. Towson University – Northeastern Maryland
   • Address: 510 Thomas Run Rd, Bel Air, MD 21015
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: Towson University’s RN program at the Northeastern campus provides a rigorous BSN curriculum designed to equip students with the skills needed for advanced nursing roles.
   • Program Page
3. Cecil College
   • Address: 1 Seahawk Dr, North East, MD 21901 (approximately 20 miles from Bel Air)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Cecil College offers an ADN program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and nursing careers.
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Bel Air

Once you’ve completed your RN program, you’ll find numerous employment opportunities in Bel Air. Here are some major healthcare facilities:

1. University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health
   • Address: 500 Upper Chesapeake Dr, Bel Air, MD 21014
   • Description: This leading healthcare provider offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatment. Check out their employment opportunities.
2. Bel Air Health and Rehabilitation Center
   • Address: 410 E MacPhail Rd, Bel Air, MD 21014
   • Description: This facility focuses on providing quality long-term care and rehabilitation services. Visit their careers page for job openings.
3. Harford Memorial Hospital
   • Address: 501 S Union Ave, Havre De Grace, MD 21078 (approximately 15 miles from Bel Air)
   • Description: A part of the University of Maryland Medical System, Harford Memorial Hospital offers diverse nursing opportunities. Explore their careers page for more information.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Maryland, you must:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Maryland Board of Nursing

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Bel Air varies. For instance, Harford Community College’s ADN program costs approximately $10,000 for in-county students, while Towson University’s BSN program is about $25,000 per year. Financial aid options include:

• Federal grants and loans
• State scholarships and grants
• Institutional scholarships
• Work-study programs

Licensure Reciprocity

Maryland participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Maryland without additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Maryland Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Bel Air, Maryland, is a rewarding journey. With a supportive community, excellent training programs, and promising employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a local school today and start your path toward becoming a registered nurse!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Bel Air 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 Bel Air?

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

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.