RN Programs in Tupelo, Mississippi

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

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Tupelo, Mississippi

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Tupelo, Mississippi? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to start your journey towards becoming an RN in Tupelo. But first, let’s take a look at what an RN does.

RNs are healthcare professionals who provide patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and offer emotional support to patients and their families. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.

Why Become an RN in Tupelo?

Tupelo, known for its rich musical heritage and as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, offers a unique blend of southern charm and modern amenities. The city is home to numerous parks, cultural landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods, making it an attractive place to live and work. For more information about the city, visit the official Tupelo city website.

The demand for RNs in Tupelo is strong, with competitive salaries and promising job growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Mississippi is around $61,250 per year, and the job outlook is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more details, check out the RN job outlook page on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Tupelo, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. These typically include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry, and math)
• A satisfactory score on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
• A background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs offer a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. You can expect to take courses in:

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

Clinical training is a crucial component, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced nurses and instructors.

RN Training Programs in Tupelo, Mississippi

Here are three local schools in Tupelo that offer RN programs:

1. Itawamba Community College (ICC)
   • Address: 2176 S Eason Blvd, Tupelo, MS 38804
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: ICC offers a comprehensive ADN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
   • Cost: Approx. $5,000 per year
   • Program Page
2. University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Tupelo Campus
   • Address: 1918 Briar Ridge Rd, Tupelo, MS 38804
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: Ole Miss offers a BSN program at its Tupelo campus, providing students with a more in-depth education in nursing theory and practice. The program includes extensive clinical rotations.
   • Cost: Approx. $9,000 per year
   • Program Page
3. North Mississippi Medical Center (NMMC)
   • Address: 830 S Gloster St, Tupelo, MS 38801
   • Program: RN Residency Program
   • Description: NMMC offers an RN residency program for new graduates, providing additional training and support as they transition into professional practice.
   • Cost: Program funded by NMMC
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Tupelo

Tupelo is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are some key employers:

1. North Mississippi Medical Center (NMMC)
   • Address: 830 S Gloster St, Tupelo, MS 38801
   • Description: NMMC is the largest non-metropolitan hospital in America, offering a wide range of medical services and employing a significant number of RNs.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Tupelo VA Clinic
   • Address: 1500 Main St, Tupelo, MS 38804
   • Description: This clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services to veterans, including primary care, mental health, and specialty services.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. Trace Regional Hospital
   • Address: 1002 E Madison St, Houston, MS 38851 (approximately 30 miles from Tupelo)
   • Description: A smaller community hospital offering a range of inpatient and outpatient services.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Mississippi, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the state-specific requirements set by the Mississippi Board of Nursing. You can find more information about certification requirements on their official website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Tupelo can vary. On average, you can expect to pay between $5,000 to $10,000 per year for tuition. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Many schools also offer payment plans to help manage costs.

Licensure Reciprocity

Mississippi is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Mississippi without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Mississippi Board of Nursing and meet additional requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Tupelo, Mississippi, is a fulfilling and achievable goal. With the right education and training, you can begin a rewarding career in healthcare. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward your new career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Tupelo 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 Tupelo?

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.