Nurses are crucial to any healthcare institution and often in high demand across the nation. Prospective nurses can choose from several distinct education pathways. A number of colleges in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, offer the requisite programs for prospective nurses, including Harrisburg Area Community College and Widener University.
The most common nursing role in Harrisburg is that of a registered nurse (RN). There are a total of 6,860 RNs employed in Harrisburg, with the top RNs earning an annual salary in excess of $78,000. Interested individuals can enroll in either an associate’s degree (ADN) or bachelor’s degree (BSN) program. Both programs comprehensively cover the skills and training required for success as an RN, including significant amounts of clinical experience for students. Completion of either program will allow students to take the national licensure examination, the NCLEX-RN. Upon successfully passing this exam, students are officially licensed as RNs.
Lastly, prospective nurses may choose to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA). There are 2,680 CNAs employed in Harrisburg, with top CNAs earning an annual salary around $33,000. Aspiring CNAs can enroll in an accredited certificate program; these typically last only a few months and allow for flexible class scheduling. This training program provides students with the prerequisites to take the state-administered examination for official licensure as a nursing assistant.
To help you make an informed decision on joining the nursing profession, we have compiled below a detailed list of nursing schools and programs in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.