RN Programs in Providence, Rhode Island

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

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Providence, Rhode Island

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Providence, Rhode Island? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant city. From the steps to get started to the best local RN programs, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Providence?

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, is known for its rich history, cultural sites, and thriving healthcare industry. Whether you’re strolling through the historic East Side or enjoying the waterfront at Waterplace Park, Providence offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

The average salary for RNs in Providence is competitive, and the demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for RNs is projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, making it an excellent career choice.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Providence, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. These typically include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background checks and immunizations

Each school may have additional requirements, so be sure to check the specific prerequisites for the programs you’re interested in.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally include both classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body
• Microbiology: Studying microorganisms and their impact on health
• Pharmacology: Learning about medications and their effects
• Nursing Fundamentals: Basic nursing skills and patient care
• Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings

These courses and experiences are designed to prepare you for the diverse challenges you’ll face as an RN.

RN Training Programs in Providence, Rhode Island

There are several excellent RN programs in and around Providence. Here are three notable options:

1. Rhode Island College – School of Nursing
   Address: 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Providence, RI 02908
   RN Program Page
   Rhode Island College offers a comprehensive BSN program with state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical placements in top healthcare facilities.

2. University of Rhode Island – College of Nursing
   Address: 350 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
   RN Program Page
   The University of Rhode Island offers both BSN and accelerated BSN programs, providing flexibility for traditional students and career changers alike.

3. Community College of Rhode Island
   Address: 1 Hilton Street, Providence, RI 02905
   RN Program Page
   CCRI offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with a focus on practical skills and community health.

RN Employment Opportunities in Providence

Providence is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are a few key employers:

• Lifespan Health System
  Employment Opportunities
  Lifespan is Rhode Island’s largest health system, with multiple hospitals including Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital, both located in the heart of Providence.

• Care New England Health System
  Employment Opportunities
  Care New England includes facilities like Women & Infants Hospital and Butler Hospital, offering diverse roles for RNs.

• Providence VA Medical Center
  Employment Opportunities
  Located in the Elmwood neighborhood, the Providence VA Medical Center provides care to veterans and offers various nursing positions.

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Rhode Island, you’ll need to:

1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
3. Apply for licensure through the Rhode Island Department of Health.

National certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is also beneficial for career advancement.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Providence can vary widely. Tuition for an ADN program at CCRI is approximately $6,000 per year, while a BSN program at Rhode Island College or the University of Rhode Island can range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, are available. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re already an RN moving to Rhode Island from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Rhode Island is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC). This means you can practice in Rhode Island if you hold a multistate license from another compact state. For more details, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Providence, Rhode Island, is a fulfilling and attainable goal. With a variety of local RN programs to choose from, supportive healthcare facilities, and a welcoming community, now is the perfect time to embark on your nursing career. Contact one of the schools today to take the first step toward a rewarding future in healthcare!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Providence 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 Providence?

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.