RN Programs in Lacrosse, Wisconsin
Get your RN degree in Lacrosse, Wisconsin - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Lacrosse, Wisconsin
Are you considering a fulfilling career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Lacrosse, Wisconsin? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Lacrosse, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right local RN programs.
Why Become an RN in Lacrosse
Lacrosse, Wisconsin, is a vibrant city nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River. Renowned for its scenic beauty and welcoming community, Lacrosse makes an ideal place to start your nursing career. The average salary for RNs in Wisconsin is around $72,000 per year, with a positive job outlook and projected growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With landmarks like Grandad Bluff and Riverside Park, Lacrosse offers a rich blend of natural beauty and professional opportunity.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Generally, these include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
- Completion of specific high school courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
- Passing scores on entrance exams (like the TEAS)
- Background checks and immunizations
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs in Lacrosse cover a range of courses designed to prepare you for the nursing field. You can expect to study:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Practice
These programs often include both classroom-based learning and hands-on clinical training in healthcare settings.
RN Training Programs in Lacrosse, Wisconsin
Here are three local schools offering RN programs in Lacrosse:
- Western Technical College
- Address: 400 7th St N, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Program Page: Western Technical College – Nursing
- Description: Western Technical College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program with a comprehensive curriculum and robust clinical training. Tuition for in-state students is approximately $4,000 per year.
- Viterbo University
- Address: 900 Viterbo Dr, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Program Page: Viterbo University – Nursing
- Description: Viterbo University provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Known for its rigorous coursework and extensive clinical rotations, the program prepares students for diverse nursing careers. Annual tuition is around $28,000.
- University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
- Address: 1725 State St, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Program Page: UW-La Crosse – Nursing
- Description: Offering a collaborative BSN program with Gundersen Health System, UW-La Crosse emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of nursing. Tuition costs approximately $9,000 per year for in-state students.
RN Employment Opportunities in Lacrosse
Here are some major healthcare facilities in Lacrosse where you might find employment opportunities:
- Gundersen Health System
- Address: 1900 South Ave, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Employment Page: Gundersen Health System Careers
- Description: A renowned healthcare provider, Gundersen offers a range of services and is a significant employer for RNs in Lacrosse. It is located in the Southside neighborhood.
- Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare
- Address: 700 West Ave S, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Employment Page: Mayo Clinic Careers
- Description: Part of the renowned Mayo Clinic network, this facility provides comprehensive care and numerous employment opportunities for RNs. It is situated in the downtown area.
RN Certification Requirements
To become an RN in Wisconsin, you must:
- Complete a state-approved nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Apply for licensure through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
National certification requirements include passing the NCLEX-RN exam and maintaining continuing education credits.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Lacrosse varies. Associate degrees typically range from $4,000 to $10,000 per year, while BSN programs can cost between $20,000 and $30,000 annually. Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and federal student loans. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.
Licensure Reciprocity
Wisconsin is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Wisconsin without additional licensure. For nurses moving from non-compact states, you will need to apply for endorsement through the Wisconsin DSPS.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Registered Nurse in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, is a rewarding choice. With excellent local RN programs and a supportive healthcare community, you have everything you need to succeed. Contact one of the schools mentioned above and take the first step toward your nursing career today!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Lacrosse 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 Lacrosse?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Wisconsin. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin.
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.