RN Programs in Ohio

Ohio RN Programs

Ohio is the home of many great job opportunities, especially when it comes to the medical field. One great medical career is registered nursing. There are plenty of RN programs in New York, so it is possible for a potential student to find the right program to suit one’s personal needs and preferences.

RN programs range in length from 2 years to 4 years. For those who wish to continue education, there are many specialty areas. RNs can even work toward an advanced degree or pursue a career teaching nursing.

Becoming Licensed by Examination in Ohio

In Ohio, one can become licensed either by examination or by endorsement. The exam used for licensing RNs in the NCLEX.

In addition to registering for and passing the NCLEX, individuals must submit an application for licensure by examination and pay the $75 fee. The applicant must also submit the following items to the board:

• Completion letter from the director of the program (or official transcript sent directly from the nursing school for non-Ohio graduates)
• Criminal background check
• Signed and completed affidavit
• Foreign educated applicants: CGFNS CES Professional Report and passing score on the TOEFL
• Non-Ohio nursing graduates: Proof of successfully completing a course on medication administration

Becoming Licensed by Endorsement in Ohio

In order to become licensed by endorsement, one must have already been licensed in another state or jurisdiction. He or she must submit to the board the application for licensure by endorsement, $75 fee, and the following items:

• Foreign educated applicants: CGFNS CES Professional Report and passing score on the TOEFL
• Non-Ohio nursing graduates: Proof of successfully completing a course on medication administration
• License Verification from original and current state of licensure
• Certificate showing completion of 2 contact hours of continuing education
• Criminal background check
• Signed and completed affidavit

Those applying for licensure by endorsement can obtain a temporary permit that is valid up to 180 days or until a license is granted.

Renewing an RN License

The RN licensure period runs from September 1st of an odd-numbered year to August 31st of the next odd-numbered year. An RN must satisfy continuing education (CE) requirements in order to renew his or her license. RNs must complete at least 24 CE contact hours in a 2 year period. RNs licensed by endorsement in Ohio for 1 year or less need only complete 12 contact hours of continuing education.

Additional Resources

• Ohio Board of Nursing