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RN Programs in Cleveland, Tennessee

Get your RN degree in Cleveland, Tennessee - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Cleveland, Tennessee

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Cleveland, Tennessee? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant city. We’ll cover the reasons to choose this career path, the prerequisites, the typical curriculum, local RN programs, employment opportunities, certification requirements, costs, financial aid, and licensure reciprocity. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Cleveland

Cleveland, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of Bradley County, offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city is known for its beautiful parks, historical landmarks, and a strong sense of community. If you want to learn more about Cleveland, visit the official city website.

Choosing to become an RN in Cleveland can be a great decision. The average salary for RNs in Tennessee 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 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more details, visit the BLS page for Registered Nurses.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry, anatomy)
  • Passing scores on entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
  • Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Nursing Ethics
  • Clinical Training: Real-world experience in hospitals and clinics under the supervision of experienced RNs
  • Specialty Courses: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Mental Health Nursing

RN Training Programs in Cleveland, Tennessee

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Cleveland:

  1. Cleveland State Community College
    • Address: 3535 Adkisson Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312
    • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
    • Description: This program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
    • Learn more about their RN program
  2. Lee University
    • Address: 1120 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311
    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
    • Description: Lee University offers a comprehensive BSN program that integrates faith and learning.
    • Learn more about their RN program
  3. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Athens
    • Address: 1635 Vo Tech Dr, Athens, TN 37303 (approximately 25 miles from Cleveland)
    • Program: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to RN Bridge Program
    • Description: This bridge program is designed for LPNs looking to advance their careers to the RN level.
    • Learn more about their RN program

RN Employment Opportunities in Cleveland

Cleveland offers several major healthcare facilities where you can start your RN career:

  1. Tennova Healthcare – Cleveland
  2. SkyRidge Medical Center
  3. Bradley Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Tennessee, you must:

  • Graduate from an accredited nursing program
  • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
  • Apply for licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing
  • Complete continuing education as required

For more detailed information, visit the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Cleveland can vary. Here are some general ranges:

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): $6,000 – $20,000
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): $20,000 – $60,000

Financial aid options include federal and state grants, scholarships, and student loans. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Tennessee is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), allowing RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Tennessee without additional licensure. However, if you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Tennessee’s specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an RN in Cleveland, Tennessee? With numerous local programs, supportive employment opportunities, and a welcoming community, there’s no better time to start. Contact a school today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in nursing!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

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

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 Cleveland, Tennessee

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Cleveland State Community College

  • PO Box 3570 Cleveland, TN 37320
    Programs: ADN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (423) 472-7141

Southern Adventist University

  • 4881 Taylor Circle Collegedale, TN 37315
    Programs: ADN, Family Nurse Practitioner, RN, RN to BSN
    1(800)768-8437

Chattanooga State Technical Community College

  • 4501 Amnicola Highway Chattanooga, TN 37406
    Programs: ADN, CNA, EMT Paramedic, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Medical Assistant, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Phlebotomy, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN
    (423) 697-4404

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

  • 615 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37403
    Programs: BSN, DNP, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (423) 425-4111

King College

  • 1350 King College Road Bristol, TN 37303
    Programs: BSN, Medical Assistant, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (423) 652-4861

Roane State Community College

  • 276 Patton Lane Harriman, TN 37748
    Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, RN
    (865) 354-3000

Tennessee Wesleyan College

  • 9821 Cogdill Rd # 2 Knoxville, TN 37932
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (865) 777-9822

South College

  • 3904 Lonas Drive Knoxville, TN 37909
    Programs: BSN, Medical Assistant, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Physician Assistant, Radiography, RN
    1(865)251-1800

Tennessee Technological University

  • 1 William L Jones Dr. Cookeville, TN 38505
    Programs: BSN, EMT Paramedic, LPN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (931) 372-3888

Motlow State Community College

  • 6015 Ledford Mill Road Tullahoma, TN 37388
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (931) 393-1500

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

  • 1331 Circle Park Drive Knoxville, TN 37996
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, MSN, Nursing PhD, Radiography, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (865) 974-1000

Middle Tennessee State University

  • 1301 East Main Street Murfreesboro, TN 37132
    Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    1(615)898-2300