RN Programs in Durham, New Hampshire

Get your RN degree in Durham, New Hampshire - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Durham, New Hampshire

Are you considering a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Durham, New Hampshire? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start your journey toward 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 Durham

Durham, New Hampshire, is a picturesque town known for its vibrant community and beautiful landscapes. Home to the University of New Hampshire, Durham offers a blend of suburban tranquility and academic vibrancy. You can find more about the town on its official website.

Becoming an RN in Durham is a rewarding career choice, both personally and financially. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in New Hampshire is approximately $75,000 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. This makes it an excellent time to enter the nursing field.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• High School Diploma or GED: This is the minimum educational requirement.
• Minimum Age: Most programs require you to be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some schools may require exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Check: A clean background check is often necessary due to the nature of the profession.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

• Foundational Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
• Nursing Courses: Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, and Psychiatric Nursing.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings, which is crucial for gaining practical skills.

RN Training Programs in Durham, New Hampshire

Here are some local schools offering RN programs:

1. University of New Hampshire
   • Location: 105 Main St, Durham, NH 03824
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: The University of New Hampshire offers a comprehensive BSN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program is known for its high NCLEX-RN pass rates.
   • Program Page
2. Great Bay Community College
   • Location: 320 Corporate Dr, Portsmouth, NH 03801 (approximately 10 miles from Durham)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Great Bay Community College offers an ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Program Page
3. Rivier University
   • Location: 420 S Main St, Nashua, NH 03060 (about 40 miles from Durham)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: Rivier University’s BSN program emphasizes critical thinking, clinical competence, and compassionate care.
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Durham

Durham is home to several healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital
   • Location: 789 Central Ave, Dover, NH 03820 (about 8 miles from Durham)
   • Description: A leading hospital in the Seacoast region offering a wide range of services. Known for its patient-centered care.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Frisbie Memorial Hospital
   • Location: 11 Whitehall Rd, Rochester, NH 03867 (approximately 15 miles from Durham)
   • Description: Frisbie Memorial Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services and is a great place for RNs to start their careers.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. Exeter Hospital
   • Location: 5 Alumni Dr, Exeter, NH 03833 (about 20 miles from Durham)
   • Description: Exeter Hospital is known for its high-quality care and offers numerous opportunities for RNs.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in New Hampshire, you must:

• Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: This is the national licensing exam for RNs.
• State Licensing: Apply for licensure through the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
• Continuing Education: Complete continuing education requirements to maintain your license.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary widely:

• University of New Hampshire: Approximately $30,000 per year for in-state students.
• Great Bay Community College: Around $7,000 per year.
• Rivier University: About $35,000 per year.

Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, scholarships, and grants. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

New Hampshire is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC member states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving to New Hampshire, you can easily transfer your license by meeting certain requirements outlined by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Now that you have a comprehensive guide to becoming an RN in Durham, New Hampshire, it’s time to take the next step. Contact a local school today to get started on your path to a rewarding nursing career. Your future as an RN awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Durham 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 Durham?

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

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.