RN Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Chesapeake, Virginia

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Chesapeake, Virginia? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Chesapeake, from prerequisites to local training programs, and even the job opportunities available in the area.

Why Become an RN in Chesapeake?

Chesapeake, Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful parks and waterways, including the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. If you’re looking to start your nursing career here, you’ll find that Chesapeake offers a supportive community and plenty of opportunities for growth.

The average salary for an RN in Chesapeake is competitive, and the job market is robust. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

For more information about Chesapeake, visit the city’s official website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program in Chesapeake, you’ll need to meet some basic 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 are designed to provide you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

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

RN Training Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake offers several excellent RN programs. Here are three local options:

1. Tidewater Community College (TCC)
   • Address: 1428 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, VA 23322
   • Program Description: TCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences.
   • Program Page: TCC Nursing Program
2. Old Dominion University (ODU)
   • Address: 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23529 (approximately 15 miles from Chesapeake)
   • Program Description: ODU offers both Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and RN to BSN programs. The BSN program is designed for students who want a comprehensive nursing education, while the RN to BSN program is for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers.
   • Program Page: ODU Nursing Program
3. Sentara College of Health Sciences
   • Address: 1441 Crossways Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23320
   • Program Description: Sentara College offers a variety of nursing programs, including an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Their programs emphasize hands-on training in clinical settings.
   • Program Page: Sentara Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Chesapeake

Chesapeake is home to several major healthcare facilities where you can seek employment after completing your RN training:

1. Chesapeake Regional Healthcare
   • Address: 736 Battlefield Blvd N, Chesapeake, VA 23320
   • Description: Chesapeake Regional Healthcare is a comprehensive healthcare system offering a wide range of services, including surgical, emergency, and maternity care.
   • Employment Page: Chesapeake Regional Healthcare Careers
2. Sentara Healthcare
   • Address: Multiple locations, including Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk, VA
   • Description: Sentara Healthcare is a large, integrated healthcare system with numerous facilities in the Chesapeake area. They offer a variety of nursing roles in different specialties.
   • Employment Page: Sentara Healthcare Careers
3. Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
   • Address: 3636 High St, Portsmouth, VA 23707 (approximately 10 miles from Chesapeake)
   • Description: Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center provides comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialty care.
   • Employment Page: Bon Secours Careers

RN Certification Requirements

In Virginia, registered nurses must be licensed by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Here are the steps to get certified:

1. Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Ensure your program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After graduation, you’ll need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

3. Apply for Licensure: Submit an application to the Virginia Board of Nursing and pay the associated fees.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Chesapeake can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): $10,000 – $20,000
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): $30,000 – $50,000

Financial aid options are available to help offset these costs. Consider applying for federal financial aid through the FAFSA, as well as scholarships and grants from organizations like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Virginia from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Virginia is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Virginia using your multi-state license without needing additional licensure. However, you’ll need to ensure your primary state of residence is an NLC member.

For more information, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. With a variety of local RN programs and abundant job opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the next step in your nursing journey. Reach out to a local school today to learn more about their programs and how you can get started.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake?

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

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.