Nursing schools in Tallahassee, the capital city of Florida, are home to some of the best nursing schools in the state. As the healthcare industry continues to grow, nursing has become one of the most in-demand professions in the United States. If you’re looking to pursue a career in nursing in Tallahassee.
Tallahassee is a vibrant city located in the panhandle region of Florida. It is home to several colleges and universities, including Florida State University, Tallahassee Community College, and Tallahassee Technical College.
The city has a rich history and culture and is known for its beautiful parks, museums, and performing arts venues.
This blog post will provide you with an overview of the top nursing schools in the city, the programs they offer, and the job opportunities available.
Nursing Education in Tallahassee, Florida
Before we dive into the nursing programs available in Tallahassee, let’s take a moment to discuss nursing education in Florida.
The Florida Board of Nursing oversees the licensing of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the state.
To become an RN in Florida, you must have a degree from an approved nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). To become an LPN, you must complete an approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
Top Nursing Schools in Tallahassee
Now, let’s take a closer look at the top nursing schools in Tallahassee:
- Florida State University College of Nursing: The Florida State University College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.
- The BSN program: Prepares students to become registered nurses, while the MSN and DNP programs are designed for advanced practice nurses. The college also offers an online RN to BSN program for working nurses who want to earn a bachelor’s degree.
- Tallahassee Community College Nursing Program: Tallahassee Community College offers an Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) program. The program is designed to prepare students to become registered nurses and takes two years to complete. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
- Keiser University – Tallahassee Campus: Keiser University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program. The BSN program takes four years to complete, while the ASN program takes two years.
- Lively Technical College: Lively Technical College offers a Practical Nursing program that takes one year to complete. The program prepares students to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.
Scholarships and financial aid options available for nursing students in Tallahassee
Aspiring nursing students in Tallahassee have several options for scholarships and financial aid to help cover the cost of their education. Here are some of the most popular options available:
1. Florida Student Scholarship and Grant Programs: The state of Florida offers several scholarship and grant programs for students pursuing higher education. The Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) is a need-based grant that provides financial assistance to eligible Florida residents attending an eligible institution in Florida.
The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program provides funding for eligible students who meet specific academic criteria.
2. Federal Student Aid: Students can also apply for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This program provides grants, loans, and work-study programs to eligible students who demonstrate financial need.
3. Nursing-Specific Scholarships: Many organizations offer nursing-specific scholarships to help students pursue a career in nursing. The Florida Nurses Association Foundation offers several scholarships for nursing students in Florida, including the “Edna R. Anthony Memorial Scholarship” and the “Elaine Gelman Student Nurse Scholarship.”
4. School-Specific Scholarships: Some nursing schools in Tallahassee also offer scholarships and financial aid to their students. For example, the Florida State University College of Nursing offers several scholarships, including the “Marie B. Larkin Endowed Scholarship” and the “Patricia R. Kelly Scholarship.”
5. Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some healthcare employers in Tallahassee offer tuition reimbursement programs for their employees who are pursuing a degree in nursing. This can be an excellent option for students who are already working in the healthcare industry and want to further their education while still earning a salary.
Aspiring nursing students in Tallahassee have several options for scholarships and financial aid to help cover the cost of their education. It is important to research and apply for these opportunities early to maximize your chances of receiving funding.
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Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for nursing schools in Tallahassee can vary depending on the institution. However, there are some common requirements that most schools share. Here are some of the general admission requirements for nursing schools in Tallahassee:
- High School Diploma or GED: All nursing schools require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
- GPA: Most nursing programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher. However, some programs may require a higher GPA, so it is important to check with the school you are interested in attending.
- Prerequisite Courses: Nursing programs require students to complete specific prerequisite courses before being admitted. These courses typically include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
- Entrance Exam: Many nursing schools require students to take an entrance exam, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or the Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment (HESI A2). These exams evaluate students’ basic academic skills and knowledge in areas such as math, reading, and science.
- Work or Volunteer Experience: Some nursing programs may require students to have work or volunteer experience in the healthcare field. This can include experience as a nursing assistant, patient care technician, or medical assistant.
- Letters of Recommendation: Nursing programs may require students to submit letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or healthcare professionals.
- Personal Statement: Many nursing programs require students to submit a personal statement that highlights their motivation for pursuing a career in nursing, their experience in the healthcare field, and their academic and career goals.
Admission requirements for nursing schools in Tallahassee vary depending on the institution. It is important to research the specific requirements for each program and ensure that you meet all of the necessary qualifications before applying.
By carefully preparing your application materials and meeting the admission requirements, you can increase your chances of being accepted into the nursing program of your choice.
Job Opportunities for Nurses in Tallahassee
Nurses are in high demand in Tallahassee and throughout the state of Florida. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses in Florida was $66,210 in May 2021. LPNs in Florida earned a median annual wage of $47,810 in the same period.
Nurses in Tallahassee can find employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private practices. Some of the top employers of nurses in Tallahassee include Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, Capital Regional Medical Center, and the Florida Department of Health.
Conclusion
Nursing is a rewarding and in-demand profession, and Tallahassee is a great place to pursue a career in nursing. With several top nursing schools and a thriving healthcare industry, aspiring nurses can receive quality education and gain valuable hands-on experience in Tallahassee.
The Florida State University College of Nursing and the Tallahassee Community College Nursing Program are two of the most respected nursing schools in the city, but there are several other nursing schools available for students to consider.
Additionally, nurses can find employment in various healthcare settings in Tallahassee, making it an excellent place to start and advance in their careers.
