RN Programs in La Plata, Maryland

Get your RN degree in La Plata, Maryland - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in La Plata, Maryland

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in La Plata, Maryland? This guide will walk you through the steps to become an RN, from understanding prerequisites and typical program curricula to finding local RN programs and employment opportunities. Let’s get started!

Why Become an RN in La Plata

La Plata, located in Charles County, Maryland, is a charming town known for its community spirit and rich history. Becoming an RN here offers both a fulfilling career and the chance to serve a vibrant community. The average salary for RNs in Maryland is approximately $77,000 per year, and the job outlook is promising, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more detailed information on RN career prospects, you can visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more about La Plata, visit the official town website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: Essential for all nursing programs.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs require exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Checks: Many programs require a clean criminal background check.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body.
• Microbiology: Studying microorganisms and their effects on health.
• Pharmacology: Learning about different medications and their administration.
• Nursing Fundamentals: Basic nursing skills and patient care techniques.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in La Plata, Maryland

Here are three local schools offering RN programs near La Plata:

1. College of Southern Maryland (CSM)
   • Location: 8730 Mitchell Rd, La Plata, MD 20646
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: CSM offers a comprehensive ADN program with a strong focus on clinical experience. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Cost: Approximately $3,500 per semester for in-county residents.
   • More Info: CSM Nursing Program
2. University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON)
   • Location: 655 W Lombard St, Baltimore, MD 21201 (about 40 miles from La Plata)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: UMSON is one of the top nursing schools in the nation, offering a robust BSN program with state-of-the-art facilities.
   • Cost: Approximately $15,000 per year for in-state students.
   • More Info: UMSON BSN Program
3. Prince George’s Community College (PGCC)
   • Location: 301 Largo Rd, Largo, MD 20774 (about 30 miles from La Plata)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: PGCC offers an ADN program known for its supportive faculty and comprehensive curriculum.
   • Cost: Approximately $4,500 per semester for in-county residents.
   • More Info: PGCC Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in La Plata

After obtaining your RN license, you’ll find several healthcare facilities in and around La Plata offering employment opportunities:

1. University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center
   • Location: 5 Garrett Ave, La Plata, MD 20646
   • Description: A full-service hospital providing a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services.
   • Employment Opportunities: UM Charles Regional Careers
2. MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center
   • Location: 7503 Surratts Rd, Clinton, MD 20735 (about 20 miles from La Plata)
   • Description: A 192-bed acute care hospital offering a wide range of healthcare services.
   • Employment Opportunities: MedStar Southern Maryland Careers
3. La Plata Family Health
   • Location: 6190 Crain Hwy, La Plata, MD 20646
   • Description: A family practice clinic providing comprehensive healthcare services.
   • Employment Opportunities: La Plata Family Health

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Maryland, you must:

• Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Either an ADN or BSN program.
• Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
• Apply for Licensure: Submit an application to the Maryland Board of Nursing.
• Continuing Education: Complete continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.

For more details, visit the Maryland Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in La Plata can vary. On average, you can expect to pay:

• ADN Programs: $3,500 – $4,500 per semester.
• BSN Programs: $15,000 per year.

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

Licensure Reciprocity

Maryland is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you may need to meet additional requirements. For more information, visit the NCSBN.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse in La Plata, Maryland? Contact one of the local schools mentioned above to learn more about their programs and start your application process today. A fulfilling career in nursing awaits you!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer La Plata 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 La Plata?

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.