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RN Programs in Bakersfield, California

Get your RN degree in Bakersfield, California - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Bakersfield, California

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Bakersfield, California? This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from understanding what an RN does to finding the right RN programs and employment opportunities in Bakersfield.

Why Become an RN in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield, located in the heart of California, is known for its vibrant community and growing healthcare industry. With a median annual salary for RNs around $113,240 and a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029, it’s an excellent time to pursue this career. For more details on the job outlook for RNs, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic 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 like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
– Background check and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. You can expect courses in:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Microbiology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Pharmacology
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings are also a key component, offering real-world experience under the supervision of licensed professionals.

RN Training Programs in Bakersfield, California

Here are some local schools offering RN programs in Bakersfield:

  1. Bakersfield College
    Address: 1801 Panorama Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93305
    RN Program Page
    Bakersfield College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. It’s known for its comprehensive curriculum and strong clinical partnerships within the community.

  2. California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB)
    Address: 9001 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93311
    Nursing Program Page
    CSUB offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This program is designed to provide a broad foundation of nursing knowledge and prepare students for leadership roles.

  3. San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) – Bakersfield Campus
    Address: 201 New Stine Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93309
    Nursing Program Page
    SJVC offers an accelerated Associate Degree in Nursing program that can be completed in a shorter time frame, making it an attractive option for those eager to start their nursing careers.

RN Employment Opportunities in Bakersfield

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

  1. Kern Medical
    Employment Opportunities
    Located in Central Bakersfield, Kern Medical is a premier teaching hospital offering a wide range of services and specialties.

  2. Dignity Health – Memorial Hospital
    Careers Page
    Situated in the Stockdale area, Memorial Hospital provides comprehensive care, including emergency services, maternity, and a variety of specialized medical treatments.

  3. Adventist Health Bakersfield
    Careers Page
    Located in the Northeast neighborhood, Adventist Health Bakersfield is known for its patient-centered care and commitment to community health.

RN Certification Requirements

To work as an RN in California, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet the requirements set by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). For detailed information, visit the California BRN.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Bakersfield can vary widely. For instance, Bakersfield College’s ADN program costs approximately $4,000, while CSUB’s BSN program may cost around $20,000. Financial aid options include federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Check each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in California without additional licensure. For more information, visit the California BRN.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN is a fulfilling career choice with numerous opportunities in Bakersfield. Take the first step by researching local RN programs and contacting schools for more information. Your journey to a rewarding career in nursing starts now!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Bakersfield 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 Bakersfield?

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

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.

RN Schools Near You & Online Near Bakersfield, California

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Bakersfield College

  • 1801 Panorama Drive Bakersfield, CA 93305
    Programs: ADN, CNA, EMT Paramedic, LVN, Radiography, RN
    (661) 395-4011

California State University at Bakersfield

  • 9001 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, RN, RN to BSN
    (661) 654-2782

College of the Sequoias

  • 915 S. Mooney Blvd. Visalia, CA 93277
    Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
    (559) 730-3700

San Joaquin Valley College

  • 8400 W. Mineral King Visalia, CA 93291
    Programs: ADN, LVN, Physician Assistant, RN
    (866) 544-7898

Antelope Valley Medical College

  • 44201 10th St West Lancaster, CA 93534
    Programs: ADN, LVN, RN
    (661) 726-1911

College of the Canyons

Moorpark College

  • 7075 Campus Road Moorpark, CA 93021
    Programs: ADN, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Radiography, RN
    (805) 378-1400

Ventura College

  • 4667 Telegraph Road Ventura, CA 93003
    Programs: ADN, CNA, EMT Paramedic, RN
    (805) 654-6400

Santa Barbara City College

  • 721 Cliff Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93109
    Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, LVN, Radiography, RN
    (805) 965-0581

Allan Hancock College

  • 800 S. College Dr. Santa Maria, CA 93454
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, RN
    (805) 922-6966

Los Angeles Pierce College

Los Angeles Valley College

  • 5800 Fulton Avenue Valley Glen, CA 91401
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (818) 947-2600

West Coast University

  • 12215 Victory Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91606
    Programs: ADN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (818) 299-5500

Mount St Mary’s College

  • 12001 Chalon Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90049
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, ADN, BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (310) 954-4000

Glendale Community College

  • 1500 North Verdugo Road Glendale, CA 91208
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (818) 240-1000

University of California, Los Angeles

  • 405 Hilgard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90095
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, LPN to BSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN
    (310) 825-4321

Los Angeles City College

  • 855 N. Vermont Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90029
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Radiography, RN
    (323) 953-4000

Santa Monica College

  • 1900 Pico Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90405
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (310) 434-4000

Pasadena City College

  • 1570 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91106
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LVN, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (626) 585-7123