RN Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina

Get your RN degree in Charlotte, North Carolina - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Charlotte, North Carolina

Are you thinking about becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Charlotte, North Carolina? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your journey to becoming an RN in this vibrant city. From understanding what an RN does to finding the best local nursing programs, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina, known as the “Queen City,” is a fantastic place to start your career as a Registered Nurse. With its blend of Southern charm and modern innovation, Charlotte offers a unique lifestyle. Notable neighborhoods like Uptown, NoDa, and South End provide a range of cultural and recreational activities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in the Charlotte area is around $70,000 per year, and the job market for RNs is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you dive into an RN program, there are a few prerequisites you’ll need to meet. Typically, these include:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Minimum age of 18
– Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
– Passing entrance exams (like the TEAS)
– Background checks and drug screenings

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to provide a comprehensive education in nursing. You can expect to take courses in:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Microbiology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Pharmacology
– Mental Health Nursing
– Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing

In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll gain hands-on experience through clinical training in local hospitals and healthcare facilities.

RN Training Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte is home to several excellent RN programs. Here are three local schools that offer RN training:

1. Central Piedmont Community College
   • Location: 1201 Elizabeth Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204
   • Program Description: Central Piedmont Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Cost: Approximately $76 per credit hour for in-state students.
   • Visit their RN Program Page
2. Queens University of Charlotte
   • Location: 1900 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte, NC 28274
   • Program Description: Queens University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and community health.
   • Cost: Tuition is approximately $35,000 per year.
   • Visit their RN Program Page
3. Carolinas College of Health Sciences
   • Location: 2110 Water Ridge Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28217
   • Program Description: This school offers both an ADN and a BSN program, providing flexible options for students.
   • Cost: Tuition varies; visit their website for more details.
   • Visit their RN Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Charlotte

Charlotte boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are a few:

1. Atrium Health
   • Location: 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
   • Description: Atrium Health is one of the largest healthcare systems in the region, offering a wide range of services.
   • Visit their Employment Opportunities
2. Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center
   • Location: 200 Hawthorne Ln, Charlotte, NC 28204
   • Description: Novant Health is known for its patient-centered care and state-of-the-art facilities.
   • Visit their Employment Opportunities
3. Carolinas Medical Center
   • Location: 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
   • Description: Also part of Atrium Health, this facility is a teaching hospital offering diverse opportunities for RNs.
   • Visit their Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

In North Carolina, RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the state’s Board of Nursing requirements. The North Carolina Board of Nursing oversees licensure, so make sure to check their website for the most current information on certification and continuing education requirements.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Charlotte can vary widely. On average, community college programs might cost between $5,000 and $10,000 per year, while private universities can cost upwards of $35,000 per year. Financial aid options include:
– Federal and state grants
– Scholarships (such as those offered by the Foundation for the Carolinas)
– Student loans
– Work-study programs

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving to North Carolina from another compact state, the process is straightforward. For non-compact states, you may need to provide verification of your credentials and pass additional background checks.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career as an RN in Charlotte, North Carolina? There’s no better time to start than now. Reach out to one of the local schools listed above to begin your journey. Nursing is a fulfilling and in-demand career, and Charlotte is a fantastic place to make your mark. Contact a school today and get started on the path to becoming a Registered Nurse!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Charlotte 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 Charlotte?

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

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.