RN Programs in Brainerd, Minnesota

Get your RN degree in Brainerd, Minnesota - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Brainerd, Minnesota

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Brainerd, Minnesota? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this charming city. From understanding the prerequisites to exploring local RN programs and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Brainerd?

Brainerd, located in the heart of Minnesota, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to world-class healthcare facilities. Known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities, Brainerd is a great place to live and work. The average salary for RNs in Minnesota is around $78,920 per year, and the job outlook is promising with a projected growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more details on job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about Brainerd, check out the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses (biology, chemistry, etc.)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• Background checks and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally offer a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Ethics
• Pharmacology
• Patient Care
• Clinical Rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in Brainerd, Minnesota

Here are three local schools offering RN programs near Brainerd:

1. Central Lakes College
   • Location: 501 W College Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Central Lakes College provides a comprehensive ADN program with state-of-the-art simulation labs and experienced faculty. Tuition and fees are approximately $5,500 per year.
   • Link: Central Lakes College Nursing Program
2. The College of St. Scholastica – Brainerd Campus
   • Location: 1001 Kingwood St, Brainerd, MN 56401
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: This program offers a robust BSN curriculum with a focus on holistic patient care. The estimated tuition is around $38,000 per year.
   • Link: St. Scholastica Nursing Program
3. St. Cloud Technical & Community College (SCTCC)
   • Location: 1540 Northway Dr, St Cloud, MN 56303 (approximately 50 miles from Brainerd)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: SCTCC offers an ADN program that combines classroom learning with clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Tuition is approximately $6,000 per year.
   • Link: SCTCC Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Brainerd

Brainerd is home to several healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for RNs:

1. Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center
   • Location: 523 N 3rd St, Brainerd, MN 56401
   • Description: Essentia Health is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of services. They frequently have openings for RNs.
   • Link: Essentia Health Careers
2. Cuyuna Regional Medical Center
   • Location: 320 E Main St, Crosby, MN 56441 (approximately 20 miles from Brainerd)
   • Description: This medical center offers comprehensive healthcare services and has multiple nursing positions available.
   • Link: Cuyuna Regional Medical Center Careers
3. Sanford Health – Bemidji Medical Center
   • Location: 1300 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601 (approximately 70 miles from Brainerd)
   • Description: Sanford Health is a well-respected healthcare system with numerous opportunities for RNs.
   • Link: Sanford Health Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Minnesota, you must:

• Complete an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Nursing
• Complete continuing education requirements for license renewal

For more details, visit the Minnesota Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Brainerd varies. On average, you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $40,000 per year, depending on the program and institution. Financial aid options include federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

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 from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet any additional state-specific requirements.

Get Started Today

If you’re ready to embark on a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse in Brainerd, Minnesota, now is the time to take action. Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and start your journey today. The healthcare community in Brainerd is eager to welcome new RNs who are passionate about making a difference.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Brainerd 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 Brainerd?

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.