RN Programs in Dallas, Texas

Get your RN degree in Dallas, Texas - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Dallas, Texas

Are you contemplating a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Dallas, Texas? You’ve made a fantastic choice! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right RN programs in Dallas. Let’s dive in and explore how you can start your journey toward becoming an RN in the vibrant city of Dallas.

Why Become an RN in Dallas

Dallas is a bustling metropolis known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse neighborhoods, and booming healthcare industry. With landmarks like the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, and the vibrant Deep Ellum neighborhood, Dallas offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

The average salary for an RN in Dallas is competitive, with many opportunities for growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for RNs was $77,600 in 2021, with job growth projected to be 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology, chemistry, and math)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (like the TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the nursing field. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Nursing Ethics
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals and healthcare settings
• Specialty Courses: Pediatric Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing
• Capstone Projects: Comprehensive projects that integrate theoretical and practical knowledge

RN Training Programs in Dallas, Texas

Several reputable schools in Dallas offer RN programs to help you get started on your nursing career. Here are three top choices:

1. El Centro College
   • Address: 801 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202
   • RN Program Page
   • El Centro College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that provides comprehensive training and clinical experience.
2. Texas Woman’s University
   • Address: 5500 Southwestern Medical Ave, Dallas, TX 75235
   • RN Program Page
   • Texas Woman’s University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
3. UT Southwestern Medical Center
   • Address: 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390
   • RN Program Page
   • UT Southwestern Medical Center offers a comprehensive nursing program with a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.

RN Employment Opportunities in Dallas

Dallas is home to numerous top-tier healthcare facilities. Here are some major employers where you might find RN job opportunities:

1. Baylor University Medical Center
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, Baylor University Medical Center is a nationally recognized hospital offering a wide range of specialties.
2. Parkland Health & Hospital System
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Situated in the Oak Lawn area, Parkland is one of the largest public hospitals in the country, known for its trauma and burn units.
3. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Located in the Vickery Meadow neighborhood, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital offers comprehensive medical services and is known for its heart and vascular care.

RN Certification Requirements

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

1. Complete an accredited RN program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
3. Apply for licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing.
4. Meet continuing education requirements for license renewal.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Dallas can vary widely. On average, tuition can range from $3,000 for community college programs to $20,000 or more for university programs. Financial aid options are available, including:

• Federal grants and loans
• Scholarships from schools and private organizations
• State-specific grants and programs

Be sure to check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for more information on available options.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re already a licensed RN in another state and planning to move to Texas, you’ll be pleased to know that Texas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means your license from another compact state can be easily transferred to Texas. For non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Texas Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Registered Nurse in Dallas, Texas, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With numerous RN programs and abundant employment opportunities in the healthcare sector, there’s no better time to start. Contact a school today to learn more and take the first step toward your new career!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Dallas 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 Dallas?

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

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.