RN Programs in Rhode Island

Rhode Island RN Training

Rhode Island has a wide variety of registered nursing programs for applicants to choose from, ranging from 2 year programs to 4 year colleges and universities. For those who are interested in a stable and rewarding career in the healthcare industry, Rhode Island RN programs might be a great option. RNs encounter many challenges on a daily basis, and there are many opportunities to specialize or earn an advanced degree.

In Rhode Island, one can become licensed either by examination or by endorsement, depending upon whether or not the individual is already licensed in another jurisdiction. Rhode Island is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, meaning that those who reside in and are licensed in another compact state can practice in this state without additional licensure.

Becoming Licensed by Examination in Rhode Island

The test used to license RNs in Rhode Island is the NCLEX-RN. Along with registration for examination and $135 fee, applicants must submit official transcripts, a head and shoulder photo of the applicant, the non-refundable fee, and a criminal background check. Those who are licensed in a foreign country must also prove English proficiency and complete the requirements of the CGFNS.

Becoming Licensed by Endorsement in Rhode Island

Those who are licensed in another state can apply for licensure by endorsement, as long as the individual does not reside in another compact state. In order to become licensed by endorsement, the individual must submit the following items along with the licensure application:

  • $135 fee
  • Recent passport-type photo
  • Official transcript
  • Graduation from nursing program
  • Photocopy of current out-of-state license
  • Proof of residence
  • Criminal background check and fingerprinting
  • Foreign applicants: requirements of CGFNS

A 90 day temporary permit will automatically be issued to individuals applying for licensure by endorsement.

Renewing an RN License

In order to renew an RN license, one must complete 10 continuing education hours within each 2 year renewal cycle.

Additional Resources

RN Schools Near You & Online in Rhode Island

University of Rhode Island

  • 45 Upper College Road Kingston, RI 02881
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, MSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN
    1(401)874-1000

Community College of Rhode Island

  • 1762 Louisquisset Pike Lincoln, RI 02865
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN, Sonography
    (401) 333-7000

Salve Regina University

  • 100 Ochre Point Avenue Newport, RI 02840
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (401) 847-6650

St. Josephs Hospital

Rhode Island College

  • 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue Providence, RI 02908
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (401) 456-8000

Community College of Rhode Island

  • 400 East Avenue Warwick, RI 02886
    Programs: ADN, LPN, RN
    (401) 825-1000