RN Programs in Kinston, North Carolina

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

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Kinston, North Carolina

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Kinston, North Carolina? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. From understanding what an RN does to finding the right RN programs in Kinston, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Kinston

Kinston, located in eastern North Carolina, is a charming town known for its rich history and vibrant community. With attractions like the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center and the Kinston Music Park, there’s always something to explore. Plus, Kinston’s cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive place to start your nursing career.

The average salary for an RN in Kinston is competitive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a median annual wage for RNs around $75,000. The job outlook for RNs is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 9% over the next decade. For more detailed information, you can visit the RN job outlook page on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. These typically include:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
– Completion of specific entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
– Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
– Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology
– Nursing Courses: Fundamentals of Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, and Mental Health Nursing
– Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics

RN Training Programs in Kinston, North Carolina

If you’re looking to pursue an RN program in Kinston, here are some local options:

1. Lenoir Community College
   • Address: 231 NC Hwy 58 South, Kinston, NC 28504
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Lenoir Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
   • Lenoir Community College RN Program
2. Wayne Community College
   • Address: 3000 Wayne Memorial Dr, Goldsboro, NC 27534 (approximately 30 miles from Kinston)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Wayne Community College’s ADN program emphasizes patient-centered care and critical thinking. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Wayne Community College RN Program
3. Craven Community College
   • Address: 800 College Ct, New Bern, NC 28562 (approximately 28 miles from Kinston)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Craven Community College offers an ADN program that includes both classroom learning and clinical experiences. The program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Craven Community College RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Kinston

Kinston has several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. UNC Lenoir Health Care
   • Address: 100 Airport Rd, Kinston, NC 28501
   • Description: UNC Lenoir Health Care is a community hospital offering a wide range of medical services. They frequently have openings for RNs in various departments.
   • UNC Lenoir Health Care Employment Opportunities
2. Kinston Community Health Center
   • Address: 324 N Queen St, Kinston, NC 28501
   • Description: This facility provides comprehensive healthcare services to the community, including primary care, dental, and behavioral health services. They often seek RNs to join their team.
   • Kinston Community Health Center Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in North Carolina, you’ll need to:
– Complete an accredited nursing program
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
– Apply for licensure through the North Carolina Board of Nursing

For more information, visit the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Kinston can vary. On average, tuition for a two-year ADN program ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the institution. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific details.

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving to North Carolina from another state, you’ll need to meet the state’s licensure requirements and apply through the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Kinston, North Carolina, is a fulfilling and achievable goal. With the right education and training, you can embark on a rewarding career in healthcare. Reach out to a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step towards your new career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Kinston 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 Kinston?

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.