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RN Programs in Charleston, South Carolina

Get your RN degree in Charleston, South Carolina - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Charleston, South Carolina

Are you considering a rewarding and impactful career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Charleston, South Carolina? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant city. We’ll cover the steps to get started, local RN programs, and employment opportunities, all designed to set you on the path to success.

Why Become an RN in Charleston

Charleston, often referred to as “The Holy City,” is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and southern charm. If you’re planning to pursue a career as an RN here, you’re in for a treat. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in South Carolina is around $68,000 per year, and the demand for healthcare professionals is expected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030. Plus, living in Charleston means you can enjoy landmarks like the Battery, Rainbow Row, and the historic French Quarter.

For more about the city, visit the City of Charleston’s official website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you dive into an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Essential for admission.
  • Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
  • Entrance Exams: Some schools require tests like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
  • Background Check: A clean background is often necessary for clinical placements.

Be sure to check the specific prerequisites for each program you’re interested in.

Typical Program Curriculum

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

  • Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
  • Nursing Courses: Fundamentals of Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, and Mental Health Nursing.
  • Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics.

RN Training Programs in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston offers several reputable RN training programs. Here are three you should consider:

  1. Trident Technical College
    • Address: 7000 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406
    • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
    • Description: Trident Technical College offers a comprehensive ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
    • Program Details
  2. Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)
    • Address: 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425
    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
    • Description: MUSC’s BSN program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and extensive clinical training. Students benefit from the university’s state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty.
    • Program Details
  3. Charleston Southern University
    • Address: 9200 University Blvd, Charleston, SC 29406
    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
    • Description: This BSN program offers a holistic approach to nursing education, combining academic theory with practical experience. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Program Details

RN Employment Opportunities in Charleston

Charleston is home to several major healthcare facilities offering excellent employment opportunities for RNs. Here are a few:

  1. Roper St. Francis Healthcare
    • Address: 316 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
    • Description: Roper St. Francis is a leading healthcare provider in the Lowcountry, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments.
    • Employment Opportunities
  2. MUSC Health University Medical Center
    • Address: 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29425
    • Description: Affiliated with the Medical University of South Carolina, this medical center is known for its cutting-edge research and patient care.
    • Employment Opportunities
  3. East Cooper Medical Center
    • Address: 2000 Hospital Dr, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
    • Description: Located in nearby Mt. Pleasant, East Cooper Medical Center offers a range of services including surgical care, emergency services, and women’s health.
    • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in South Carolina, you must meet both state and national certification requirements:

  • NCLEX-RN Exam: All aspiring RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
  • South Carolina Board of Nursing: You must apply for licensure through the South Carolina Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Charleston can vary widely:

  • ADN Programs: Typically range from $10,000 to $15,000.
  • BSN Programs: Can range from $20,000 to $40,000.

Financial aid options include federal grants, student loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Be sure to complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for financial aid.

Licensure Reciprocity

South Carolina is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving from a non-NLC state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the South Carolina Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Charleston, South Carolina, is a fulfilling journey that offers numerous rewards. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Reach out to one of the local schools today and begin your path toward a rewarding career in nursing.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Charleston 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 Charleston?

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

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.

RN Schools Near You & Online Near Charleston, South Carolina

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Medical University of South Carolina

  • 171 Ashley Avenue Charleston, SC 29425
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, BSN to DNP, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing Administration, Nursing PhD, Physician Assistant, Psych Nursing - Certificate, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (843) 792-2300

Charleston Southern University

  • 9200 University Boulevard Charleston, SC 29406
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (843) 863-7000

Trident Technical College

  • 7000 Rivers Avenue North Charleston, SC 29406
    Programs: ADN, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (843) 574-6111

Technical College of Low Country

  • 921 Ribaut Road Beaufort, SC 29901
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (843) 525-8211

University of South Carolina Beaufort

  • 801 Carteret Street Beaufort, SC 29902
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (843) 521-4100

South Carolina State University

  • 300 College Street NE Orangeburg, SC 29117
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    1(800)260-5956

Orangeburg – Calhoun Technical College

  • 3250 St. Matthews Road Orangeburg, SC 29118
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (803) 536-0311

Central Carolina Technical College

  • 506 N Guignard Dr. Sumter, SC 29150
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (803) 778-1961

Florence-Darlington Technical College

  • 2715 W. Lucas Street Florence, SC 29502
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Radiography, RN
    1(800)228-5745

Francis Marion University

  • PO Box 100547 Florence, SC 29502
    Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    1(800)368-7551

Horry-Georgetown Technical College

  • 2050 Highway 501 East Conway, SC 29528
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (843) 347-3186