RN Programs in Bellevue, Washington

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Bellevue, Washington

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Bellevue, Washington? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an RN, from understanding local RN programs to meeting certification requirements. Let’s dive into what it takes to start this fulfilling journey!

Why Become an RN in Bellevue?

Bellevue, a vibrant city located just across Lake Washington from Seattle, is home to a diverse population and a thriving healthcare sector. The city’s scenic beauty, excellent schools, and growing job market make it an attractive place to live and work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in the Seattle-Bellevue-Everett metropolitan area is around $95,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.

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

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites. These typically include:

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

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in Bellevue offer a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

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

Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings provide hands-on experience, essential for building practical nursing skills.

RN Training Programs in Bellevue, Washington

Bellevue boasts several excellent RN programs. Here are three local schools offering RN courses:

1. Bellevue College
   • Address: 3000 Landerholm Cir SE, Bellevue, WA 98007
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Details: Bellevue College offers a comprehensive ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations.
   • Link: Bellevue College RN Program
2. Lake Washington Institute of Technology
   • Address: 11605 132nd Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034 (approx. 8 miles from Bellevue)
   • Program: Associate in Applied Science-Transfer Degree in Nursing (AAS-T)
   • Details: This program focuses on providing practical nursing skills and knowledge, preparing graduates for entry-level RN positions.
   • Link: LWTech RN Program
3. Seattle Central College
   • Address: 1701 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122 (approx. 10 miles from Bellevue)
   • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-N)
   • Details: Seattle Central College offers a robust nursing program that combines theoretical coursework with clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings.
   • Link: Seattle Central RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Bellevue

Bellevue offers numerous employment opportunities for RNs. Here are some major healthcare facilities in the area:

1. Overlake Medical Center
   • Address: 1035 116th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
   • Details: Overlake Medical Center is a non-profit, independently operated regional medical center offering a wide range of healthcare services.
   • Link: Overlake Medical Center Careers
2. Virginia Mason Bellevue Medical Center
   • Address: 222 112th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
   • Details: Part of the Virginia Mason Health System, this facility provides comprehensive healthcare services with a focus on patient-centered care.
   • Link: Virginia Mason Careers
3. EvergreenHealth Medical Center
   • Address: 12040 NE 128th St, Kirkland, WA 98034 (approx. 8 miles from Bellevue)
   • Details: EvergreenHealth is a public hospital district providing medical care to the residents of King and Snohomish counties.
   • Link: EvergreenHealth Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Washington State, you’ll need to meet both state-specific and national certification requirements:

1. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
   • Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
   • NCLEX-RN Information
2. Washington State Nursing Commission
   • Apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health
   • Washington State Nursing Commission

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Bellevue can vary widely. On average, tuition for an ADN program ranges from $10,000 to $30,000. However, many financial aid options are available, including:

• Federal and state grants
• Scholarships
• Student loans
• Work-study programs

Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Washington State participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs from other compact states to practice in Washington without obtaining additional licensure. However, if you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Washington State Nursing Commission.

Get Started Today

Now that you have a roadmap to becoming an RN in Bellevue, Washington, it’s time to take the next step! Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and get started on your journey to a rewarding nursing career.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Bellevue 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 Bellevue?

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

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.