RN Programs in Kent, Ohio

Get your RN degree in Kent, Ohio - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Kent, Ohio

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Kent, Ohio? This guide is here to help you navigate the process from start to finish. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your healthcare career, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Kent, OH.

Why Become an RN in Kent

Kent, Ohio, a charming city known for its vibrant community and home to Kent State University, offers a supportive environment for aspiring RNs. For more about what makes Kent special, visit the official city website.

The average salary for an RN in Ohio is approximately $68,000 annually, with a steady job growth rate projected at 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more detailed job outlook information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) RN page.

Prerequisites for RN programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Kent, you’ll need to meet some basic 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 (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Nursing Fundamentals
• Specialized Nursing Courses: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Mental Health Nursing
• Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience in hospitals and other healthcare settings, supervised by experienced RNs

RN Training Programs in Kent, Ohio

If you’re looking for RN programs in Kent, OH, here are three excellent options:

1. Kent State University College of Nursing
   • Address: 800 E. Summit St., Kent, OH 44242
   • Program Description: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, with a comprehensive curriculum that includes both classroom and clinical experiences.
   • Cost: Approximately $11,000 per year for in-state students.
   • Kent State University College of Nursing
2. Stark State College
   • Address: 6200 Frank Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720 (approximately 15 miles from Kent)
   • Program Description: Offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Cost: Around $5,000 per year for in-state students.
   • Stark State College Nursing Program
3. Hiram College
   • Address: 11715 Garfield Rd., Hiram, OH 44234 (about 20 miles from Kent)
   • Program Description: Offers a BSN program with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and clinical practice.
   • Cost: Approximately $32,000 per year.
   • Hiram College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Kent

Kent, OH offers numerous employment opportunities for RNs at various healthcare facilities. Here are some major employers:

1. University Hospitals Portage Medical Center
   • Address: 6847 N Chestnut St, Ravenna, OH 44266 (in nearby Ravenna)
   • Description: A full-service hospital known for its patient-centered care and advanced medical services.
   • University Hospitals Portage Medical Center Employment Opportunities
2. Summa Health System – Akron Campus
   • Address: 525 E Market St, Akron, OH 44304 (located in Akron, near Kent)
   • Description: A leading healthcare provider offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services.
   • Summa Health System Employment Opportunities
3. Cleveland Clinic – Akron General
   • Address: 1 Akron General Ave, Akron, OH 44307
   • Description: Part of the renowned Cleveland Clinic network, this hospital provides a wide range of medical services and specialties.
   • Cleveland Clinic Akron General Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

In Ohio, becoming a licensed RN involves several steps:

1. Complete an accredited RN program: Graduate from a state-approved nursing program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam: Register and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
3. State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Ohio Board of Nursing.
   • Ohio Board of Nursing

Cost and Financial Aid

RN programs in Kent, Ohio, range from $5,000 to $32,000 per year, depending on the institution and degree type. Financial aid options include:

• Federal and State Grants: Such as the Pell Grant and Ohio College Opportunity Grant.
• Scholarships: Offered by schools, professional organizations, and private foundations.
• Student Loans: Federal and private loan options.
• Work-Study Programs: Part-time work opportunities to help cover educational expenses.

Licensure Reciprocity

Ohio participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Ohio without needing additional licensure. For RNs moving from non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for Ohio licensure by endorsement through the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Kent, Ohio, is a fulfilling career choice with numerous educational and employment opportunities. Take the first step today by researching and contacting local schools to learn more about their RN programs. Good luck on your journey to becoming an RN!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Kent 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 Kent?

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

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.