RN Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
Get your RN degree in St. Louis, Missouri - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in St. Louis, Missouri
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in St. Louis, Missouri? This guide is designed to help you navigate the process of becoming an RN in this vibrant city. From understanding what an RN does to finding local RN programs, we’ve got you covered.
Why Become an RN in St. Louis?
St. Louis, often referred to as the “Gateway to the West,” is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch and bustling neighborhoods like the Central West End and Soulard, St. Louis offers a dynamic setting for your nursing career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Missouri is around $67,790 annually, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more information, you can visit the official St. Louis city website.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. Typically, these include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Completion of specific entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
- A background check and drug screening
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs in St. Louis generally include a mix of coursework and clinical training. Expect to cover subjects such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Ethics
- Clinical Practicums
These courses are designed to prepare you for the diverse challenges you’ll face in healthcare settings.
RN Training Programs in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis offers several reputable RN training programs. Here are three options for you to consider:
- St. Louis Community College
- Location: 5600 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Description: SLCC offers a comprehensive ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences.
- Link: St. Louis Community College ADN Program
- Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College
- Location: 4483 Duncan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Description: Located in the Central West End, Goldfarb School of Nursing offers a BSN program with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
- Link: Goldfarb School of Nursing BSN Program
- University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL)
- Location: 1 University Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63121
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Description: UMSL’s College of Nursing offers a BSN program that combines rigorous academics with extensive clinical practice.
- Link: UMSL College of Nursing
RN Employment Opportunities in St. Louis
St. Louis is home to several major healthcare facilities where you can kickstart your nursing career:
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital
- Location: 1 Barnes-Jewish Hospital Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Description: One of the largest hospitals in Missouri, located in the Central West End, known for its comprehensive healthcare services and research facilities.
- Employment Page: Barnes-Jewish Hospital Careers
- SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital
- Location: 1201 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63104
- Description: A leading academic medical center located in Midtown, renowned for its trauma and transplant services.
- Employment Page: SSM Health Careers
- Mercy Hospital St. Louis
- Location: 615 S New Ballas Rd, St. Louis, MO 63141
- Description: Located in the suburb of Creve Coeur, Mercy Hospital offers a range of specialty services and is part of the larger Mercy Health system.
- Employment Page: Mercy Careers
RN Certification Requirements
To practice as an RN in Missouri, you’ll need to obtain state-specific and national certifications. Key requirements include:
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Applying for licensure through the Missouri Board of Nursing
- Completing continuing education (CE) credits as mandated by the state
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in St. Louis can vary widely. On average, tuition ranges from $6,000 to $30,000 depending on the program and institution. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.
Licensure Reciprocity
Missouri is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you may need to meet additional requirements. For detailed information, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step toward a fulfilling career as an RN in St. Louis? Reach out to one of the local schools listed above and start your journey today. With the right education and determination, you’ll be well on your way to making a difference in the healthcare field.
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer St. Louis 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 St. Louis?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Missouri. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Missouri. 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 Missouri.
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.