RN Programs in Grand Island, Nebraska

Get your RN degree in Grand Island, Nebraska - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Grand Island, Nebraska

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Grand Island, Nebraska? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right training program and navigating employment opportunities. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Grand Island?

Grand Island, located in the heart of Nebraska, is a vibrant community with a growing healthcare sector. Known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful parks like Stolley Park, Grand Island offers a supportive environment for aspiring nurses. The average salary for RNs in Nebraska is around $64,000 per year, and the job market is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program in Grand Island, you’ll need to meet some common prerequisites:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (like the TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatrics and Maternity Nursing

Clinical rotations will give you hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, preparing you for real-world nursing challenges.

RN Training Programs in Grand Island, Nebraska

Here are some local schools offering RN programs in Grand Island:

1. Central Community College
   • Address: 3134 W Highway 34, Grand Island, NE 68802
   • Program Description: Central Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Program Page: Central Community College RN Program
2. College of Saint Mary
   • Address: 7000 Mercy Road, Omaha, NE 68106 (Approximately 100 miles from Grand Island)
   • Program Description: The College of Saint Mary offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with a focus on holistic care and leadership in nursing.
   • Program Page: College of Saint Mary RN Program
3. University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)
   • Address: 42nd and Emile, Omaha, NE 68198 (Approximately 100 miles from Grand Island)
   • Program Description: UNMC provides a comprehensive BSN program that includes extensive clinical training and research opportunities.
   • Program Page: UNMC RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Grand Island

Grand Island is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. CHI Health St. Francis
   • Address: 2620 W Faidley Ave, Grand Island, NE 68803
   • Description: CHI Health St. Francis is a full-service hospital providing a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternal health.
   • Employment Page: CHI Health St. Francis Careers
2. Grand Island VA Medical Center
   • Address: 2201 N Broadwell Ave, Grand Island, NE 68803
   • Description: This VA Medical Center offers healthcare services to veterans, including primary care, mental health, and specialized treatments.
   • Employment Page: Grand Island VA Medical Center Careers
3. Mary Lanning Healthcare
   • Address: 715 N St. Joseph Ave, Hastings, NE 68901 (Approximately 30 miles from Grand Island)
   • Description: Mary Lanning Healthcare offers comprehensive medical services and is known for its patient-centered approach.
   • Employment Page: Mary Lanning Healthcare Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Nebraska, you must:

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
3. Complete a background check

For more information, you can visit the Nebraska Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Grand Island can vary. On average, tuition can range from $6,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the school and program. Financial aid options include:

• Federal and state grants
• Scholarships from nursing organizations
• Student loans
• Work-study programs

Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

Nebraska participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. If you are moving to Nebraska with an RN license from another compact state, you can start working right away. For more details, visit the NCSBN.

Get Started Today

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to become an RN in Grand Island, Nebraska, it’s time to take the next step. Reach out to one of the local schools, gather all the necessary information, and start your journey toward a rewarding career in nursing. Your future as an RN awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Grand Island 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 Grand Island?

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

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.