RN Programs in College Park, Maryland

Get your RN degree in College Park, Maryland - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in College Park, Maryland

Are you considering a career in healthcare and wondering how to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in College Park, Maryland? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from local RN programs to certification requirements and employment opportunities. Let’s get started!

Why Become an RN in College Park

College Park, home to the University of Maryland, offers a vibrant community and excellent opportunities for aspiring RNs. With its proximity to Washington D.C., the city provides access to some of the nation’s top medical facilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs in Maryland earn an average salary of $81,590 per year, and the job outlook is promising, with a projected growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. You can find more details here.

For more information about College Park, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, there are a few prerequisites you need to meet:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Minimum age of 18
– Completion of certain prerequisite courses (like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology)
– Passing an entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
– Background check and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are comprehensive and designed to equip you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. You can expect to take courses in:
– Human Anatomy and Physiology
– Microbiology
– Chemistry
– Pharmacology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Pediatric Nursing
– Mental Health Nursing
– Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in College Park, Maryland

Here are some local schools offering RN programs:

1. University of Maryland School of Nursing
   • Address: 655 W Lombard St, Baltimore, MD 21201
   • Program: Offers BSN and MSN programs with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
   • Website: University of Maryland School of Nursing
2. Prince George’s Community College
   • Address: 301 Largo Rd, Largo, MD 20774
   • Program: Provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program with hands-on clinical experience.
   • Website: PGCC Nursing Program
3. Montgomery College
   • Address: 51 Mannakee St, Rockville, MD 20850
   • Program: Offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program with excellent NCLEX-RN pass rates.
   • Website: Montgomery College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in College Park

Several major healthcare facilities in and around College Park provide excellent employment opportunities for RNs:

1. University of Maryland Medical Center
   • Location: Baltimore, MD (approximately 30 miles from College Park)
   • Employment Page: UMMC Careers
   • Description: A leading academic medical center offering diverse nursing roles.
2. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
   • Location: Washington, D.C. (approximately 10 miles from College Park)
   • Employment Page: MedStar Georgetown Careers
   • Description: Renowned for its research and patient care.
3. Holy Cross Health
   • Location: Silver Spring, MD (approximately 15 miles from College Park)
   • Employment Page: Holy Cross Health Careers
   • Description: Known for its community-focused healthcare services.

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Maryland, you must:
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
– Apply for licensure through the Maryland Board of Nursing.
– Complete continuing education requirements to maintain your license.

More details can be found on the Maryland Board of Nursing website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in College Park can vary. On average, expect to pay:
– Community College ADN Programs: $6,000 – $10,000
– University BSN Programs: $20,000 – $40,000

Financial aid options include federal loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Maryland is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without additional licensure. If you’re moving to Maryland from a non-NLC state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Maryland’s requirements. More information is available on the Maryland Board of Nursing website.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in College Park, Maryland, is a rewarding and attainable goal. With the right education, certification, and determination, you can embark on a fulfilling career in healthcare. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward your future.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer College 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 College Park?

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.