RN Programs in Olympia, Washington

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Olympia, Washington

If you’re considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Olympia, Washington, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Olympia, from prerequisites and program curricula to local training programs and employment opportunities. But first, let’s clarify what an RN is. An RN is a healthcare professional who has completed the necessary education and licensing requirements to practice nursing. They play a crucial role in patient care, working in various settings like hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.

Why Become an RN in Olympia?

Olympia, the charming capital of Washington State, offers a supportive environment for aspiring RNs. With its vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and historical landmarks, Olympia is a fantastic place to live and work. The average salary for an RN in Washington is approximately $86,170 per year, and the demand for RNs is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. For more details on the job outlook for RNs, you can check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology, chemistry, and math)
• Passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background checks and immunizations

Be sure to check the specific requirements of the program you’re interested in, as they can vary.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally offer a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Nursing Fundamentals, Pharmacology
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, supervised by experienced nurses
• Specialized Courses: Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Mental Health Nursing, Community Health

These programs are designed to prepare you for the NCLEX-RN exam, which you must pass to become licensed.

RN Training Programs in Olympia, Washington

Olympia offers several excellent RN programs. Here are three local schools to consider:

1. South Puget Sound Community College
   • Address: 2011 Mottman Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Cost: Approximately $4,500 per year for in-state students
   • Link: South Puget Sound Community College Nursing Program
2. Saint Martin’s University
   • Address: 5000 Abbey Way SE, Lacey, WA 98503
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Cost: Approximately $30,000 per year
   • Link: Saint Martin’s University Nursing Program
3. Centralia College
   • Address: 600 Centralia College Blvd, Centralia, WA 98531 (about 25 miles from Olympia)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Cost: Approximately $4,000 per year for in-state students
   • Link: Centralia College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Olympia

Olympia is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ RNs. Here are a few:

1. Providence St. Peter Hospital
   • Address: 413 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98506
   • Description: A 390-bed hospital offering a range of medical services.
   • Link: Providence St. Peter Hospital Employment Opportunities
2. Capital Medical Center
   • Address: 3900 Capital Mall Dr SW, Olympia, WA 98502
   • Description: A full-service hospital with specializations in cardiology, orthopedics, and more.
   • Link: Capital Medical Center Careers
3. Kaiser Permanente Olympia Medical Center
   • Address: 700 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98506
   • Description: Part of the larger Kaiser Permanente network, offering comprehensive healthcare services.
   • Link: Kaiser Permanente Careers

RN Certification Requirements

In Washington State, RNs must meet both state and national certification requirements. Here’s what you need:

• National Certification: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• State Certification: Apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health
  • Link: Washington State Department of Health Nursing Commission

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Olympia can vary widely:

• Community Colleges (ADN programs): $4,000 – $5,000 per year for in-state students
• Universities (BSN programs): $20,000 – $30,000 per year

Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA and consult with your school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

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

Get Started Today

Ready to start your journey to becoming an RN in Olympia, Washington? The first step is to research and contact local schools to find the program that best fits your needs. Don’t wait—take the first step towards a rewarding career in nursing today!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Olympia 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 Olympia?

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.