RN Programs in Elizabeth, New Jersey

Get your RN degree in Elizabeth, New Jersey - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Elizabeth, New Jersey

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Elizabeth, New Jersey? This guide is here to help you navigate the process, from selecting the right RN program to understanding certification requirements. Let’s dive into what it takes to become an RN and why Elizabeth is a great place to start this journey.

Why Become an RN in Elizabeth

Elizabeth, NJ, known for its vibrant neighborhoods and rich history, offers aspiring nurses a dynamic environment for both education and employment. The city is home to several healthcare facilities and offers competitive salaries for RNs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in New Jersey is around $85,720 per year, and the job growth rate is projected to be 7% from 2019 to 2029.

For more about Elizabeth, check out the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: Basic educational requirement.
• Minimum Age: Usually 18 years or older.
• Entrance Exams: Tests like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) are commonly required.
• Background Check: Ensuring that candidates have no disqualifying criminal history.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically cover both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings under supervision.
• Specialty Courses: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, and Mental Health Nursing.

RN Training Programs in Elizabeth, New Jersey

Elizabeth offers several options for those looking to enroll in RN programs. Here are three local schools:

1. Trinitas School of Nursing
   • Address: 40 W Jersey St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
   • Program Overview: Offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a blend of classroom learning and clinical experience.
   • Trinitas School of Nursing Program
2. Union County College
   • Address: 1033 Springfield Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016 (about 7 miles from Elizabeth)
   • Program Overview: Provides an ADN program with a strong emphasis on clinical practice.
   • Union County College Nursing Program
3. Kean University
   • Address: 1000 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083 (about 5 miles from Elizabeth)
   • Program Overview: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing.
   • Kean University Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Elizabeth

Elizabeth boasts several prominent healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Trinitas Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 225 Williamson St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
   • Overview: A major healthcare provider offering diverse nursing roles.
   • Trinitas Regional Medical Center Careers
2. East Orange General Hospital
   • Address: 300 Central Ave, East Orange, NJ 07018 (about 10 miles from Elizabeth)
   • Overview: Known for its comprehensive healthcare services and nursing opportunities.
   • East Orange General Hospital Careers
3. Overlook Medical Center
   • Address: 99 Beauvoir Ave, Summit, NJ 07901 (about 11 miles from Elizabeth)
   • Overview: Part of the Atlantic Health System, offering various specialties and advanced nursing roles.
   • Overlook Medical Center Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in New Jersey, you must:

• Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: National Council Licensure Examination for RNs.
• Apply for Licensure: Submit an application to the New Jersey Board of Nursing.
• Maintain Continuing Education: Complete continuing education requirements to keep your license active.

For more details, visit the New Jersey Board of Nursing website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Elizabeth varies. An ADN program might range from $10,000 to $20,000, while a BSN program could cost between $30,000 and $50,000. Financial aid options include federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Check with each school for specific financial aid opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

New Jersey participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. However, if you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement in New Jersey.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an RN in Elizabeth, NJ? Contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in nursing. Your future in healthcare awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Elizabeth 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 Elizabeth?

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

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.