RN Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Lincoln, Nebraska

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Lincoln, Nebraska? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Lincoln, from selecting the right RN programs to understanding the prerequisites and certification requirements. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Lincoln

Lincoln, the capital city of Nebraska, is known for its vibrant community, rich history, and excellent educational opportunities. Whether you’re strolling through the beautiful Sunken Gardens or exploring the bustling Haymarket District, Lincoln offers a great quality of life with a moderate cost of living.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Registered Nurses in Nebraska is around $66,000 per year, and the job market for RNs is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029. This makes Lincoln a promising city to start your nursing career.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Lincoln, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require proof of high school completion.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Check: A background check may be necessary to ensure eligibility for clinical placements.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs usually offer a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Here’s what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
• Nursing Courses: Fundamentals of Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Medical-Surgical Nursing.
• Clinical Training: Supervised hands-on experience in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics.

RN Training Programs in Lincoln, Nebraska

Lincoln offers several excellent RN programs to choose from. Here are three local schools providing RN training:

1. Southeast Community College (SCC)
   • Address: 8800 O St, Lincoln, NE 68520
   • Program Description: SCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Cost: Approximately $110 per credit hour for in-state students.
   • SCC RN Program
2. Union College
   • Address: 3800 S 48th St, Lincoln, NE 68506
   • Program Description: Union College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with a strong focus on clinical experience.
   • Cost: Around $25,000 per year.
   • Union College RN Program
3. Bryan College of Health Sciences
   • Address: 1535 S 52nd St, Lincoln, NE 68506
   • Program Description: Bryan College offers both ADN and BSN programs, featuring state-of-the-art simulation labs and extensive clinical rotations.
   • Cost: Approximately $500 per credit hour.
   • Bryan College RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Lincoln

Lincoln boasts a variety of healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are some major employers:

1. Bryan Health
   • Description: A comprehensive healthcare system offering a wide range of services, including acute care, cardiology, and oncology.
   • Location: Bryan Medical Center East Campus (48th & Cotner Blvd) and West Campus (16th & South St).
   • Bryan Health Careers
2. CHI Health St. Elizabeth
   • Description: A leading hospital known for its emergency services, orthopedics, and maternity care.
   • Location: 555 S 70th St, Lincoln, NE 68510
   • CHI Health Careers
3. Nebraska Heart Institute
   • Description: Specializing in cardiovascular care, this facility offers a range of services from diagnostics to surgery.
   • Location: 7440 S 91st St, Lincoln, NE 68526
   • Nebraska Heart Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Nebraska, you’ll need to meet both state-specific and national certification requirements:

• NCLEX-RN Exam: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
• State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.
• Continuing Education: Nebraska requires RNs to complete continuing education for license renewal.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Lincoln varies, typically ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per year. Financial aid options include:

• Federal Student Aid: Fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal grants and loans.
• Scholarships: Many schools offer nursing-specific scholarships.
• Grants: Look for state and local grants that support nursing education.

Licensure Reciprocity

Nebraska is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving to Nebraska, check the NLC website for more details.

Get Started Today

You’re now equipped with all the information you need to begin your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse in Lincoln, Nebraska. Take the next step by reaching out to one of the local schools and starting your application process. Your future in nursing awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Lincoln 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 Lincoln?

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.