RN Programs in Wahpeton, North Dakota

Get your RN degree in Wahpeton, North Dakota - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Wahpeton, North Dakota

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Wahpeton, North Dakota? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this charming town. Registered Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, providing compassionate care, administering medications, and collaborating with doctors to ensure patient well-being. Let’s dive into the steps you’ll need to take to start your journey.

Why Become an RN in Wahpeton

Wahpeton, located in the southeastern corner of North Dakota, is known for its friendly community and small-town charm. The official City of Wahpeton website offers a wealth of information about local amenities and events. As of 2024, the average salary for RNs in North Dakota is approximately $70,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wahpeton’s close-knit community and proximity to larger cities make it an excellent place to start your nursing career.

Prerequisites for RN programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, there are some prerequisites you’ll need to meet:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology and chemistry)
• Passing an entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
• Background check and immunization records

Typical program curriculum

RN programs offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills. You can expect to take courses such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Adult Health Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in Wahpeton, North Dakota

While Wahpeton may not have a plethora of RN programs, there are excellent options nearby:

1. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS)
   • Location: 800 N 6th St, Wahpeton, ND 58076
   • NDSCS Nursing Program
   • Description: NDSCS offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences. Tuition costs approximately $5,000 per year for in-state students.
2. Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) – Fergus Falls
   • Location: 1414 College Way, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 (approximately 45 miles from Wahpeton)
   • M State Nursing Program
   • Description: M State offers an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program. The curriculum includes comprehensive nursing courses and hands-on clinical training. Tuition is around $5,500 per year for Minnesota residents.
3. Concordia College – Moorhead
   • Location: 901 8th St S, Moorhead, MN 56562 (approximately 50 miles from Wahpeton)
   • Concordia Nursing Program
   • Description: Concordia College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program provides a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice, with extensive clinical experiences. Tuition is approximately $40,000 per year.

RN Employment Opportunities in Wahpeton

Wahpeton has several healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment opportunities:

1. St. Francis Healthcare Campus
   • Location: 2400 St. Francis Dr, Breckenridge, MN 56520 (just across the river from Wahpeton)
   • St. Francis Healthcare Campus Employment
   • Description: St. Francis Healthcare Campus offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and primary care. It is a key employer for RNs in the area.
2. CHI St. Alexius Health – Wahpeton Clinic
   • Location: 275 11th St S, Wahpeton, ND 58075
   • CHI St. Alexius Health Careers
   • Description: This clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services, including family medicine, pediatrics, and specialty care. It offers various roles for RNs.
3. Essentia Health – Fargo
   • Location: 3000 32nd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103 (approximately 50 miles from Wahpeton)
   • Essentia Health Careers
   • Description: Essentia Health is a large healthcare system offering diverse career opportunities for RNs in various specialties, from acute care to outpatient services.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in North Dakota, you must meet the following certification requirements:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for RN licensure through the North Dakota Board of Nursing
• Complete any continuing education requirements for license renewal

Cost and financial aid

The cost of RN programs in Wahpeton and nearby areas can vary. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Community college (ADN programs): $5,000 – $6,000 per year
• Four-year college (BSN programs): $20,000 – $40,000 per year

Financial aid options are available to help offset these costs. Consider applying for federal financial aid through the FAFSA, as well as scholarships and grants offered by local organizations, schools, and national nursing associations.

Licensure reciprocity

North Dakota is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licensure. If you are moving to North Dakota from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the North Dakota Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Wahpeton, North Dakota, is a fulfilling and achievable goal. With the right education, training, and certification, you can embark on a rewarding career in healthcare. Reach out to one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your future as a Registered Nurse today!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Wahpeton 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 Wahpeton?

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

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.