RN Programs in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania

Considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through the steps to become an RN in Blue Bell, covering everything from prerequisites and program curricula to training programs and employment opportunities. Let’s dive in and explore the path to your new career.

Why Become an RN in Blue Bell

Blue Bell, a charming suburb of Philadelphia, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to the city. This makes it an ideal location for aspiring RNs. The average salary for an RN in the Philadelphia metropolitan area is around $80,000 per year, with a positive job growth outlook. For more detailed information on job outlook and salaries, check out the RN job outlook page on bls.gov.

For more about Blue Bell, visit the official Blue Bell website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can start your RN training, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• Background check and immunizations
• CPR certification

It’s always a good idea to check specific requirements with the schools you’re interested in.

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Patient Care
• Healthcare Ethics

Additionally, clinical rotations in various healthcare settings will provide hands-on experience.

RN Training Programs in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in or near Blue Bell:

1. Montgomery County Community College
   • Address: 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Program Page
   • Description: This program offers an ADN with a blend of classroom learning and clinical experience. Tuition is around $5,000 per year for in-county residents.
2. Gwynedd Mercy University
   • Address: 1325 Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Program Page
   • Description: Located just a short drive from Blue Bell, Gwynedd Mercy University offers a comprehensive BSN program. Tuition is approximately $35,000 per year.
3. La Salle University
   • Address: 1900 West Olney Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19141
   • Program: Accelerated BSN Program
   • Program Page
   • Description: For those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, La Salle offers an accelerated BSN program. The program duration is about 15 months, with tuition around $40,000.

RN Employment Opportunities in Blue Bell

Major healthcare facilities in and around Blue Bell include:

1. Einstein Medical Center Montgomery
   • Address: 559 West Germantown Pike, East Norriton, PA 19403
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Description: This hospital offers a wide range of services and has numerous job openings for RNs.
2. Abington – Jefferson Health
   • Address: 1200 Old York Road, Abington, PA 19001
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Description: Located in nearby Abington, this facility is known for its comprehensive care and supportive work environment.
3. Suburban Community Hospital
   • Address: 2701 DeKalb Pike, East Norriton, PA 19401
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Description: A smaller hospital offering personalized care and a variety of RN positions.

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
• Complete continuing education requirements for license renewal

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary widely. Here’s a general range for programs in the Blue Bell area:

• Community College Programs (ADN): $5,000 – $10,000 per year
• University Programs (BSN): $30,000 – $50,000 per year

Financial aid options include federal and state grants, scholarships, student loans, and work-study programs. Check with individual schools for specific financial aid opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Pennsylvania from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Pennsylvania participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This allows RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Pennsylvania without obtaining additional licensure. For non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, is a rewarding choice. With excellent local programs and abundant job opportunities, there’s no better time to start your journey. Reach out to one of the schools listed above to get more information and take the first step toward your new career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Blue Bell 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 Blue Bell?

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

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.