RN Programs in Columbia, Tennessee

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Columbia, Tennessee

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Columbia, Tennessee? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this charming city. From prerequisites and program curricula to local training programs and employment opportunities, we’ll cover all the essential steps to help you embark on your nursing journey.

Why Become an RN in Columbia

Columbia, often referred to as “Muletown,” is a vibrant city with a rich history and strong sense of community. Nestled in the heart of Maury County, Columbia offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The average salary for an RN in Columbia is around $66,000 per year, with robust job growth projected in the healthcare sector. For more information on job outlook for RNs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more about Columbia, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Typically, these include:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Being at least 18 years old
– Passing entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
– Completing a background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally include a mix of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical training. You can expect to study subjects such as:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Microbiology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Pharmacology
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Pediatrics and Obstetrics
– Mental Health Nursing

Practical, hands-on clinical training in local healthcare settings is also a key component of the curriculum.

RN Training Programs in Columbia, Tennessee

Here are three local institutions offering RN programs in or near Columbia:

1. Columbia State Community College
   • Address: 1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401
   • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (A.A.S.)
   • Description: Columbia State offers a comprehensive RN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions. The program includes classroom instruction and clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
   • Link: Columbia State Community College Nursing Program
2. Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Hohenwald
   • Address: 813 W Main St, Hohenwald, TN 38462 (approximately 25 miles from Columbia)
   • Program: Practical Nursing Program
   • Description: While primarily a Practical Nursing program, TCAT-Hohenwald provides a pathway for LPNs to transition into RN roles through bridge programs at partnering colleges.
   • Link: TCAT-Hohenwald Nursing Program
3. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
   • Address: 1301 East Main Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37132 (approximately 45 miles from Columbia)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
   • Description: MTSU’s School of Nursing offers a B.S.N. program with a curriculum that combines rigorous academic coursework and extensive clinical practice.
   • Link: MTSU Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Columbia

Columbia is home to several healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for RNs:

1. Maury Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 1224 Trotwood Ave, Columbia, TN 38401
   • Description: Maury Regional Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a range of services from emergency care to specialized surgeries. They frequently hire RNs in various departments.
   • Link: Maury Regional Medical Center Careers
2. NHC Healthcare Columbia
   • Address: 101 Walnut Ln, Columbia, TN 38401
   • Description: NHC Healthcare Columbia provides long-term care, rehabilitation services, and skilled nursing care. They value skilled RNs to maintain high standards of patient care.
   • Link: NHC Healthcare Columbia Careers
3. Life Care Center of Columbia
   • Address: 841 W James Campbell Blvd, Columbia, TN 38401
   • Description: Life Care Center of Columbia offers both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. RNs play a crucial role in patient care and recovery.
   • Link: Life Care Center of Columbia Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Tennessee, you must:
– Graduate from an accredited nursing program
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
– Apply for licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing

For more information, visit the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Columbia varies. For instance:
– Columbia State Community College’s A.A.S. in Nursing typically costs around $4,500 per semester for in-state students.
– MTSU’s B.S.N. program costs approximately $9,000 per semester for in-state students.

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

Licensure Reciprocity

Tennessee participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Tennessee without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving to Tennessee from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Columbia, Tennessee, is a fulfilling and achievable goal. With various local programs and ample employment opportunities, there’s never been a better time to start your nursing journey. Reach out to one of the schools listed above to get more information and take your first step toward a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Columbia 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 Columbia?

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.