RN Programs in Graham, North Carolina

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

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Graham, North Carolina

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Graham, North Carolina? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this charming town. From understanding what an RN does to exploring local RN programs, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Graham

Graham, located in Alamance County, is known for its friendly community and rich history. With its close-knit neighborhoods and landmarks like the Alamance County Courthouse, Graham offers a welcoming environment for aspiring nurses. Additionally, the town’s proximity to larger cities like Greensboro and Durham provides ample job opportunities and a vibrant healthcare scene.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a Registered Nurse in North Carolina is around $66,440 per year. The job outlook for RNs is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• A clean background check
• Completion of prerequisite courses like biology and chemistry

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Ethics
• Patient Care

Clinical training will allow you to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings, preparing you for real-world nursing challenges.

RN Training Programs in Graham, North Carolina

While Graham itself may not have a large selection of RN programs, nearby cities offer excellent options. Here are three notable programs:

1. Alamance Community College
   • Location: 1247 Jimmie Kerr Rd, Graham, NC 27253
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Alamance Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Program Page
2. Guilford Technical Community College
   • Location: 601 E. Main St, Jamestown, NC 27282 (Approx. 25 miles from Graham)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Located in nearby Jamestown, GTCC provides a robust nursing program with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
   • Program Page
3. Durham Technical Community College
   • Location: 1637 Lawson St, Durham, NC 27703 (Approx. 35 miles from Graham)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Durham Tech offers an ADN program that emphasizes clinical experience and prepares students for various nursing roles.
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Graham

Graham and its surrounding areas host several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Alamance Regional Medical Center
   • Location: 1240 Huffman Mill Rd, Burlington, NC 27215
   • Description: A full-service hospital providing a wide range of healthcare services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Duke University Hospital
   • Location: 2301 Erwin Rd, Durham, NC 27710 (Approx. 35 miles from Graham)
   • Description: One of the leading hospitals in the nation, Duke University Hospital offers specialized healthcare services and cutting-edge research.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. UNC Medical Center
   • Location: 101 Manning Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Approx. 30 miles from Graham)
   • Description: Known for its comprehensive care and advanced medical facilities, UNC Medical Center is a prime employer for RNs.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

In North Carolina, RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the requirements set by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. This includes completing an approved nursing program and submitting an application for licensure.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in and around Graham can vary. For example, tuition at community colleges like Alamance Community College ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 per year for in-state students. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina 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 may need to meet additional requirements set by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Registered Nurse in Graham, North Carolina, is a commendable and fulfilling choice. With numerous local and nearby educational options, supportive healthcare facilities, and a promising job outlook, there’s no better time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to take the first step toward your nursing career!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Graham 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 Graham?

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.