Rhode Island RN Programs
Whether you’re originally from Rhode Island or you’re looking for a quaint, coastal change of scenery, there couldn’t be a better place to start a brand new career as a nurse. The latest data predicts that nursing positions are due to increase exponentially nationwide, with Rhode Island contributing to a large portion of them; by 2030, Rhode Island is due to have a 5% increase in nursing jobs. If you’re hoping to take advantage of this trend, below is some information that may help you in your search.
Jump to:
- Rhode Island RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Rhode Island
For RN bridge programs visit:
Cities in Rhode Island
Rhode Island Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the quickest path for aspiring nurses in Rhode Island, typically taking about two years to complete. Another option is the RN diploma, usually offered by specialized nursing schools or hospital-based programs, which can be completed in 1-2 years. The key difference is that an ADN includes general college coursework, while an RN diploma focuses strictly on essential nursing skills. For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking advancement, an LPN to RN bridge program provides a route to earning either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Rhode Island include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Rhode Island.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Rhode Island typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Rhode Island:
- Rhode Island Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Rhode Island MSN Program
- Rhode Island RN to MSN Programs
- Rhode Island Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Rhode Island DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Rhode Island
Requirements for RN Licensure in Rhode Island
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Rhode Island Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance