RN Programs in Newport, Rhode Island

Get your RN degree in Newport, Rhode Island - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Newport, Rhode Island

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Newport, Rhode Island? This guide will walk you through the steps to become an RN, highlighting local RN programs, prerequisites, curriculum, and employment opportunities. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Newport?

Newport, known for its stunning coastal scenery and historic landmarks like The Breakers and Fort Adams, offers a beautiful and vibrant backdrop for your nursing career. The city’s strong healthcare sector provides ample job opportunities for RNs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Rhode Island is approximately $82,790 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.

For more about Newport, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program in Newport, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of specific entrance exams (like the TEAS)
• A background check and drug screening

Make sure to check the specific requirements of each program you’re interested in.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Nursing Fundamentals
• Specialized Nursing Courses: Pediatric Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Geriatric Nursing
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals and healthcare settings, supervised by experienced nurses

RN Training Programs in Newport, Rhode Island

Here are three local schools offering RN programs:

1. Salve Regina University
   • Address: 100 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840
   • Program Page: Salve Regina University RN Program
   • Description: Known for its rigorous nursing program, Salve Regina University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with comprehensive coursework and clinical experiences.
2. Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) – Newport County Campus
   • Address: 1 John H Chafee Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
   • Program Page: CCRI RN Program
   • Description: CCRI provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
3. University of Rhode Island (URI) – College of Nursing
   • Address: 65 Bliss Rd, Kingston, RI 02881 (Approx. 20 miles from Newport)
   • Program Page: URI College of Nursing
   • Description: URI offers both BSN and accelerated BSN programs for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. The programs emphasize research, leadership, and clinical practice.

RN Employment Opportunities in Newport

Newport boasts several notable healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Newport Hospital
   • Address: 11 Friendship St, Newport, RI 02840
   • Employment Page: Lifespan Careers
   • Description: As part of the Lifespan network, Newport Hospital offers diverse nursing opportunities in various departments, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity.
2. Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice
   • Address: 1184 E Main Rd, Portsmouth, RI 02871 (Just outside Newport)
   • Employment Page: Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice Careers
   • Description: This facility provides home health care and hospice services, allowing RNs to work closely with patients in their homes.
3. Southcoast Health – St. Luke’s Hospital
   • Address: 101 Page St, New Bedford, MA 02740 (Approx. 25 miles from Newport)
   • Employment Page: Southcoast Health Careers
   • Description: St. Luke’s Hospital is part of the Southcoast Health system and offers a range of nursing positions in a variety of specialties.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Rhode Island, you must:

1. Graduate from an Accredited Nursing Program: Ensure your chosen program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: This national exam tests your nursing knowledge and skills.
3. Apply for Licensure: Submit your application and fees to the Rhode Island Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

RN program costs in Newport vary. Here’s a general range:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): $10,000 – $20,000
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): $40,000 – $80,000

Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Be sure to check with your chosen school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Rhode Island from another state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Rhode Island Board of Nursing. This process typically involves verifying your existing license, completing any additional state requirements, and paying applicable fees.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Newport, Rhode Island, is an exciting journey. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or considering a career change, there are plenty of resources and opportunities to support your path. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward a fulfilling nursing career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Newport 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 Newport?

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

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.