RN Programs in Frederick, Maryland
Get your RN degree in Frederick, Maryland - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Frederick, Maryland
Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Frederick, Maryland? This guide will walk you through the steps needed to become an RN in this vibrant city. As an RN, you’ll play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing patient care, education, and support. Let’s explore what it takes to embark on this rewarding career path right here in Frederick.
Why Become an RN in Frederick
Frederick, Maryland, is a charming city with a rich history and a welcoming community. Nestled in the heart of Maryland, Frederick offers a blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. The city is known for its historical downtown, beautiful parks, and vibrant arts scene. If you want to learn more about Frederick, visit the official city website.
In terms of employment, becoming an RN in Frederick is a promising choice. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs in Maryland earn an average salary of $81,590 per year, and the job growth for RNs is projected to be 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
To enroll in an RN program in Frederick, Maryland, you’ll typically need the following prerequisites:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18
- Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
- Passing scores on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
- Background check and drug screening
These requirements ensure that candidates are prepared for the rigorous training involved in becoming an RN.
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs in Frederick, Maryland, offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
- Core Nursing Courses: Fundamentals of Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Obstetric Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing
- Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings
- General Education: Courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and nutrition
This blend of coursework and clinical practice ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the nursing profession.
RN Training Programs in Frederick, Maryland
There are several excellent RN programs available in or near Frederick. Here are three options to consider:
- Frederick Community College
- Address: 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD 21702
- RN Program Page: Frederick Community College RN Program
- Frederick Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings.
- Hagerstown Community College
- Address: 11400 Robinwood Dr, Hagerstown, MD 21742 (approximately 25 miles from Frederick)
- RN Program Page: Hagerstown Community College RN Program
- Hagerstown Community College provides an ADN program with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for immediate employment in the nursing field.
- Montgomery College
- Address: 51 Mannakee St, Rockville, MD 20850 (approximately 30 miles from Frederick)
- RN Program Page: Montgomery College RN Program
- Montgomery College offers an ADN program that combines theoretical instruction with clinical practice. The program is known for its high NCLEX-RN pass rates and strong job placement for graduates.
RN Employment Opportunities in Frederick
Frederick boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are a few notable options:
- Frederick Health Hospital
- Address: 400 W 7th St, Frederick, MD 21701
- Employment Page: Frederick Health Careers
- Frederick Health Hospital is the largest healthcare provider in the area, offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for RNs in various departments.
- Mount St. Mary’s University Health Services
- Address: 16300 Old Emmitsburg Rd, Emmitsburg, MD 21727 (approximately 15 miles from Frederick)
- Employment Page: Mount St. Mary’s University Careers
- This university provides health services to its students and staff, offering opportunities for RNs to work in a collegiate health environment.
- Frederick Memorial Hospital
- Address: 400 W 7th St, Frederick, MD 21701
- Employment Page: Frederick Memorial Hospital Careers
- As a key healthcare provider in Frederick, this hospital offers numerous positions for RNs in specialties ranging from emergency care to pediatrics.
RN Certification Requirements
To practice as an RN in Maryland, you’ll need to meet both state and national certification requirements:
- Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: This is the national licensure exam for RNs.
- State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Maryland Board of Nursing.
These steps ensure that you are qualified to provide high-quality care to patients in Maryland.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Frederick, Maryland, can vary. On average, you can expect tuition to range from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the institution and program length. Fortunately, there are financial aid options available:
- Federal Financial Aid: Apply through the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal grants and loans.
- Scholarships and Grants: Many schools offer scholarships and grants specifically for nursing students.
- Work-Study Programs: Some institutions provide opportunities to work part-time while attending school.
Be sure to explore these options to help manage the cost of your education.
Licensure Reciprocity
If you’re moving to Maryland from another state and already hold an RN license, you’ll be pleased to know that Maryland is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that RNs licensed in other NLC states can practice in Maryland without obtaining additional licensure. For more details, check the Maryland Board of Nursing website.
Get Started Today
Becoming an RN in Frederick, Maryland, is an exciting and rewarding journey. With numerous local schools offering excellent RN programs and a variety of employment opportunities in the area, there’s never been a better time to pursue your passion for nursing. Take the first step today by reaching out to one of the schools listed above and start your path toward a fulfilling career as an RN.
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Frederick 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 Frederick?
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.
RN Schools Near You & Online Near Frederick, Maryland
Frederick Community College
- 7932 Opossumtown Pike Frederick, MD 21702
Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Nuclear Medicine Tech, RN
(301) 846-2400
Hagerstown Community College
- 11400 Robinwood Drive Hagerstown, MD 21742
Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
(301) 790-2800
Carroll Community College
- 1601 Washington Road Westminster, MD 21157
Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
(410) 386-8000
Community College of Baltimore County
- 800 South Rolling Road Catonsville, MD 21228
Programs: ADN, LPN, RN
(443) 840-2222
Columbia Union College
- 7600 Flower Ave. Takoma Park, MD 20912
Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
(301) 891-4000
Montgomery College
- 7600 Takoma Avenue Takoma Park, MD 20912
Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, Radiography, RN
(240) 567-5000
University of Maryland
- 7403 Hopkins Avenue College Park, MD 20740
Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, DNP, Physician Assistant, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
(301) 277-2994
Allegany College
- 12401 Willowbrook Road Cumberland, MD 21502
Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
(301) 784-5000
Cecil Community College
- One Seahawk Drive North East, MD 21901
Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
(410) 287-1000