RN Programs in Columbus, Mississippi

Get your RN degree in Columbus, Mississippi - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Columbus, Mississippi

If you’re considering a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Columbus, Mississippi, might be the perfect path for you. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about RN programs, prerequisites, and employment opportunities in Columbus, MS. But first, what exactly is a Registered Nurse? An RN is a licensed healthcare professional who provides patient care, educates patients about health conditions, and offers emotional support. Let’s dive into how you can become an RN in Columbus.

Why Become an RN in Columbus

Columbus, Mississippi, is a charming city known for its historic homes and Southern hospitality. With a growing healthcare sector, it’s an excellent place to start or advance your nursing career. According to the official city website, Columbus offers a supportive community and a range of educational opportunities.

The average salary for an RN in Mississippi is around $59,750 per year, and the job market is expected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This makes it a promising field with robust job prospects.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

To enroll in an RN program in Columbus, you’ll typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• A clean background check
• Proof of immunizations
• CPR certification

These prerequisites ensure that students are prepared for the rigorous demands of nursing school.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs usually include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing

Clinical rotations are a crucial part of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in Columbus, Mississippi

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Columbus:

1. Mississippi University for Women (MUW)
   • Address: 1100 College St, Columbus, MS 39701
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: MUW offers a comprehensive BSN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). MUW RN Program
2. East Mississippi Community College (EMCC)
   • Address: 8731 South Frontage Road, Mayhew, MS 39753 (approximately 15 miles from Columbus)
   • Program: Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: EMCC offers an ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes courses in medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and more. EMCC RN Program
3. Itawamba Community College (ICC)
   • Address: 602 W Hill St, Fulton, MS 38843 (approximately 50 miles from Columbus)
   • Program: Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: ICC’s ADN program provides a solid foundation in nursing practice with extensive clinical experiences. ICC RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Columbus

Columbus is home to several major healthcare facilities that offer robust employment opportunities for RNs:

1. Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle
   • Address: 2520 5th St N, Columbus, MS 39705
   • Description: A leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of services including emergency care, surgery, and maternity. Baptist Memorial Hospital Careers
2. North Mississippi Health Services
   • Address: 740 Highway 45 N, West Point, MS 39773 (approximately 20 miles from Columbus)
   • Description: Known for its comprehensive healthcare services and patient-centered care. NMHS Careers

RN Certification Requirements

In Mississippi, RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet state-specific licensure requirements. The Mississippi Board of Nursing oversees the licensing process, which includes:

• Completing an approved RN program
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Submitting a license application and fee
• Completing a background check

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Columbus, MS, can vary. On average, tuition for an ADN program ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, while a BSN program may cost between $20,000 and $40,000. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, are available to help offset these costs. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Mississippi 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’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Mississippi’s specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Columbus, Mississippi, is a fulfilling and attainable goal. With excellent educational programs and promising job prospects, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step towards a rewarding career in nursing.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Columbus 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 Columbus?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Mississippi. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Mississippi. 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 Mississippi.

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.