RN Programs in Petersburg, Virginia

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

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Petersburg, Virginia

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Petersburg, Virginia? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this historic city. From prerequisites and program curricula to local training options and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Petersburg

Petersburg, known for its rich Civil War history and beautiful landscapes, offers a welcoming community for aspiring healthcare professionals. The city’s official website provides a wealth of information about local amenities and events.

As an RN in Petersburg, you can expect competitive salaries and a positive job outlook. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Virginia is around $75,000 per year, with projected job growth of 7% from 2020 to 2030. For more detailed information, check out the RN job outlook page on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• Background checks and drug screenings

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to provide you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatrics
• Mental Health Nursing

In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll participate in clinical training at local healthcare facilities, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced nurses.

RN Training Programs in Petersburg, Virginia

Here are three local schools offering RN programs:

1. John Tyler Community College
   • Address: 13101 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Chester, VA 23831
   • Program Description: John Tyler Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Program Link: John Tyler Community College Nursing Program
   • Cost: Approx. $150 per credit hour for in-state students
2. Southside Virginia Community College
   • Address: 109 Campus Drive, Alberta, VA 23821
   • Program Description: This college provides an ADN program with comprehensive coursework and clinical experiences to prepare students for RN licensure.
   • Program Link: Southside Virginia Community College Nursing Program
   • Cost: Approx. $140 per credit hour for in-state students
3. Virginia State University
   • Address: 1 Hayden Dr, Petersburg, VA 23806
   • Program Description: Virginia State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of nursing.
   • Program Link: Virginia State University Nursing Program
   • Cost: Approx. $4,000 per semester for in-state students

RN Employment Opportunities in Petersburg

Petersburg is home to several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Southside Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 200 Medical Park Blvd, Petersburg, VA 23805
   • Description: A comprehensive medical center offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
   • Employment Opportunities: Southside Regional Medical Center Careers
2. Central State Hospital
   • Address: 26317 W Washington St, Petersburg, VA 23803
   • Description: This state psychiatric hospital provides mental health services and employs a variety of healthcare professionals, including RNs.
   • Employment Opportunities: Central State Hospital Employment
3. Poplar Springs Hospital
   • Address: 350 Poplar Dr, Petersburg, VA 23805
   • Description: A behavioral health and addiction treatment facility offering inpatient and outpatient services.
   • Employment Opportunities: Poplar Springs Hospital Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Virginia, you must:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure with the Virginia Board of Nursing

For more information on state-specific requirements, visit the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Petersburg varies. Tuition for community colleges ranges from $140 to $150 per credit hour, while tuition for universities can be around $4,000 per semester. Financial aid options include federal grants, student loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Virginia is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving to Virginia from another state, you may need to meet additional requirements, such as background checks or continuing education credits. For more details, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an RN in Petersburg, Virginia, is an exciting and rewarding journey. With numerous educational and employment opportunities, there’s no better time to take the first step. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and start your path to becoming a Registered Nurse.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Petersburg 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 Petersburg?

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.