RN Programs in Bloomington, Minnesota
Get your RN degree in Bloomington, Minnesota - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Bloomington, Minnesota
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Bloomington, Minnesota? This guide will walk you through the essential steps to becoming an RN, including information on local RN programs, prerequisites, and employment opportunities. Being an RN involves providing direct patient care, educating patients and the public about various health conditions, and offering emotional support to patients and their families.
Why Become an RN in Bloomington?
Bloomington, Minnesota, is a vibrant city known for its welcoming community and excellent healthcare facilities. Located just south of Minneapolis, Bloomington offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. One of the city’s landmarks, the Mall of America, attracts visitors from all over the world. For more information, check out the official Bloomington city website.
The average salary for an RN in Bloomington is competitive, and the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for RNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more detailed information, visit the RN job outlook page on bls.gov.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before enrolling in an RN program in Bloomington, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:
- High School Diploma or GED: Ensure you have completed high school or obtained a GED.
- Minimum Age: Most programs require you to be at least 18 years old.
- Entrance Exams: Some programs may require you to take entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
- Background Checks: A clean background check is often necessary for admission.
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
- Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Nursing Fundamentals, Pharmacology.
- Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals or clinics under the supervision of experienced nurses.
- Specialized Courses: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Community Health Nursing, Mental Health Nursing.
RN Training Programs in Bloomington, Minnesota
Here are three local schools offering RN programs in and around Bloomington:
- Normandale Community College
- Address: 9700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
- Program Description: Offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program focusing on comprehensive nursing education and hands-on clinical experience.
- Normandale Community College RN Program
- Hennepin Technical College
- Address: 9000 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445 (approximately 15 miles from Bloomington)
- Program Description: Provides a Practical Nursing program and an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with flexible scheduling options.
- Hennepin Technical College Nursing Programs
- Minneapolis Community and Technical College
- Address: 1501 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403 (about 10 miles from Bloomington)
- Program Description: Offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and patient care.
- Minneapolis College Nursing Program
RN Employment Opportunities in Bloomington
Bloomington is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:
- M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital
- Location: Edina (near Bloomington)
- Description: A comprehensive medical center offering a wide range of services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
- M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital Careers
- Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
- Location: St. Louis Park (approximately 10 miles from Bloomington)
- Description: Known for its patient-centered care, this hospital provides various medical services, including maternity, mental health, and more.
- Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital Careers
RN Certification Requirements
To practice as an RN in Minnesota, you’ll need to meet both state and national certification requirements:
- NCLEX-RN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
- Minnesota Board of Nursing: Apply for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Nursing.
- Continuing Education: Complete continuing education requirements to maintain your license.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Bloomington can vary. On average, tuition can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the program and institution. Financial aid options include:
- Federal Student Aid: Fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal loans and grants.
- Scholarships: Look for nursing-specific scholarships offered by schools, healthcare organizations, and professional associations.
- Grants: State and federal grants can help reduce the cost of your education.
Licensure Reciprocity
Minnesota participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving to Minnesota from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet any additional state-specific requirements.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an RN in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a fulfilling and impactful journey. With numerous local RN programs, supportive employment opportunities, and a strong community, Bloomington is an excellent place to start your nursing career. Contact a school today to begin your path toward becoming a Registered Nurse.
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Bloomington 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 Bloomington?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Minnesota. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Minnesota. 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 Minnesota.
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.