RN Programs in Harrisonburg, Virginia

Get your RN degree in Harrisonburg, Virginia - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Harrisonburg, Virginia

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Harrisonburg, Virginia? This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this charming city. From understanding the role of an RN to exploring local schools and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Harrisonburg

Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is a vibrant community known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the historic downtown area or taking in the natural beauty of the nearby George Washington National Forest, Harrisonburg has a lot to offer. Plus, with a growing healthcare sector, it’s a great place to start your nursing career.

• Average Salary: Registered Nurses in Virginia earn an average annual salary of around $75,000.
• Job Growth: The demand for RNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about Harrisonburg, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or GED.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs require you to pass an entrance exam like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Checks: Many programs require a criminal background check and drug screening.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs offer a blend of theoretical and practical training. Here’s what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings, supervised by experienced professionals.
• Specialty Courses: Pediatric Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, and Mental Health Nursing.

RN Training Programs in Harrisonburg, Virginia

If you’re looking to pursue an RN program in Harrisonburg, here are some local options:

1. James Madison University – School of Nursing
   • Address: 801 Carrier Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22807
   • Program Description: JMU offers a comprehensive BSN program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program is well-regarded for its high NCLEX pass rates.
   • Website: JMU School of Nursing
2. Blue Ridge Community College – Nursing Program
   • Address: 1 College Ln, Weyers Cave, VA 24486 (approximately 15 miles from Harrisonburg)
   • Program Description: BRCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Website: BRCC Nursing Program
3. Eastern Mennonite University – Nursing Program
   • Address: 1200 Park Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
   • Program Description: EMU offers both BSN and MSN programs, focusing on holistic and ethical nursing practices. The curriculum includes extensive clinical training.
   • Website: EMU Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Harrisonburg

Once you’ve completed your RN program, you’ll find several employment opportunities in Harrisonburg:

1. Sentara RMH Medical Center
   • Description: A 238-bed community hospital offering a wide range of medical services.
   • Website: Sentara RMH Careers
   • Location: 2010 Health Campus Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
2. Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation Center
   • Description: Specializes in rehabilitation services and long-term care.
   • Website: Harrisonburg Health & Rehab Careers
   • Location: 1225 Reservoir St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
3. Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community
   • Description: Provides a range of healthcare services including assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation.
   • Website: VMRC Careers
   • Location: 1501 Virginia Ave, Harrisonburg, VA 22802

RN Certification Requirements

To become a certified RN in Virginia, you must:

• Complete an Approved Nursing Program: Ensure your program is accredited by the Virginia Board of Nursing.
• Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: This national exam is required for licensure.
• State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary widely:

• James Madison University: Tuition for the BSN program is approximately $11,500 per year for in-state students.
• Blue Ridge Community College: ADN program costs around $4,500 per year for in-state students.
• Eastern Mennonite University: Tuition for the BSN program is about $38,000 per year.

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

Licensure Reciprocity

Virginia participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving to Virginia from another state, you may need to meet some additional requirements. For more details, visit the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career as an RN in Harrisonburg, Virginia? Contact one of the local schools listed above and start your journey today. Your future in healthcare awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Harrisonburg 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 Harrisonburg?

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.