RN Programs in Pottsville, Pennsylvania

Get your RN degree in Pottsville, Pennsylvania - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Pottsville, Pennsylvania

So you’re thinking about becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Pottsville, Pennsylvania? Great choice! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right RN program for you in Pottsville.

Why Become an RN in Pottsville?

Pottsville, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, is not just known for its rich history and scenic beauty but also offers promising opportunities for aspiring RNs. Whether you’re drawn to the historic Yuengling Brewery or the vibrant community events, Pottsville provides a charming backdrop for your nursing career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an RN in Pennsylvania is around $76,000, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.

Visit the official Pottsville city website to learn more about what makes this town special.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, there are a few prerequisites you’ll need to meet:

• High School Diploma or GED: This is a basic requirement for most RN programs.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require you to take entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Check: A background check is often required to ensure patient safety.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs offer a mix of coursework and clinical training to prepare you for the real-world demands of nursing. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings, supervised by experienced nurses.
• Specialized Courses: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Mental Health Nursing, and more.

RN Training Programs in Pottsville, Pennsylvania

Here are some local schools offering RN programs:

1. Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC)
   • Address: 2002 Orwigsburg St, Tamaqua, PA 18252
   • Program: LCCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, emphasizing both coursework and clinical rotations.
   • Website: LCCC Nursing Program
2. Penn State Schuylkill
   • Address: 200 University Dr, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
   • Program: This campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with comprehensive training and state-of-the-art facilities.
   • Website: Penn State Schuylkill Nursing
3. Schuylkill Health School of Nursing
   • Address: 420 S Jackson St, Pottsville, PA 17901
   • Program: Offers a diploma in nursing with extensive clinical training at local healthcare facilities.
   • Website: Schuylkill Health School of Nursing

RN Employment Opportunities in Pottsville

Pottsville houses several major healthcare facilities where you can kickstart your RN career:

1. Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill
   • Address: 700 E Norwegian St, Pottsville, PA 17901
   • Website: Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill Careers
   • Description: A leading healthcare provider offering a wide range of services and specialties.
2. Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital
   • Address: 100 Paramount Blvd, Orwigsburg, PA 17961
   • Website: Geisinger St. Luke’s Careers
   • Description: Known for its innovative care and community-focused services.
3. Schuylkill Health Medical Center South Jackson Street
   • Address: 420 S Jackson St, Pottsville, PA 17901
   • Website: Schuylkill Health Careers
   • Description: Offers a variety of job opportunities for RNs in different specialties.

RN Certification Requirements

In Pennsylvania, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing oversees the licensure process. Be sure to check their website for the latest requirements and updates.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Pottsville can vary widely:

• Associate Degree Programs: Typically range from $10,000 to $20,000.
• Bachelor’s Degree Programs: Can cost between $30,000 and $60,000.

Financial aid options are available, including federal aid, scholarships, and grants. You can start by filling out the FAFSA form to determine your eligibility.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re already an RN in another state and planning to move to Pennsylvania, you’ll be pleased to know that Pennsylvania is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means your license can be transferred with minimal hassle. Check the NLC website for specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN is a rewarding career choice filled with opportunities to make a difference. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact one of the schools mentioned above to learn more about their programs and start your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse in Pottsville, Pennsylvania.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Pottsville 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 Pottsville?

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.