Becoming an RN in Alabama

In order to become a registered nurse in Alabama, you must complete an education program that is both accredited and board-approved. Approved programs cover nursing care across the lifespan and prepare nurses to act according to the scope of duty outlined by the Alabama Board.

Professional nursing programs in Alabama are offered at both the BSN and ADN levels. The BSN program prepares students for the same licensing examination that the ADN does (the NCLEX-RN); it opens up a wider range of career possibilities, though. BSN programs often include additional coursework in areas like leadership, public health, and beginning research skills. There are generally two program phases: pre-nursing and nursing. At the pre-nursing stage, students take a course of study that is rich in both natural and social sciences. Typical prerequisites include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and human development across the lifespan. The clinical portion of the program progresses from theory to practice. A nursing student can expect multiple rotations or clinical experiences.

After graduation, Alabama’s prospective RNs should have their transcripts forwarded to the Alabama Board of Nursing. This will allow them to receive authorization to take the NCLEX-RN. The licensing application includes questions about character and professional fitness. The procedure can take some time, but a nursing school graduate can obtain a temporary permit. It is good for up to 90 days, unless the candidate fails the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt.

Although the state requires that candidates graduate from approved programs, the approving body doesn’t necessarily have to be Alabama — it can be another state or even another nation, so long as requirements are similar. Nursing candidates who were educated abroad should have their credentials reviewed by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

RN Pathways

There are mobility options in place for licensed practical nurses. Alabama schools typically expect evidence of both licensure and work experience. 500 hours of experience (in Alabama or elsewhere) is generally sufficient for an LPN to RN program at a state college.

There are also two fast track options for professionals with degrees in other fields: the accelerated BSN and the direct entry MSN. In some cases, a candidate can earn a BSN (and licensing), then progress seamlessly into master’s study in a specialty area. At the University of South Alabama, for example, candidates earn a BSN after 12 months of year-round study, and an MSN after a second 12 months. This program is quicker than in some parts of the country; in some areas, two years of practice as an RN is expected before advanced practice status is earned. Of course, it is a personal choice how fast to earn one’s nursing credentials. Some people prefer to draw a paycheck as an RN while progressing at a slower pace through their advanced studies.

Registered Nursing Career Outlook in Alabama

The Alabama Board of Nursing boasts 60,666 licensed RNs as of May 2011. There are advantages to being part of a field that is not only growing in demand percentage-wise, but has a huge number of total workers.

Hiring prospects tend to be better, during times of recession, for those with higher degrees. An American Association of Colleges of Nursing survey found that 81% of Alabama’s BSN and direct entry master’s candidates had job offers within four to six months of program completion.

The Application Process in Alabama

Admission requirements vary by degree level and institution, but there are some common expectations. All Alabama programs that fall under the direction of the Department of Postsecondary Education now require TEAS scores as part of the admission process. Prospective nurses will also need certain technical competencies, including basic physical and sensory abilities. Applicants at the community college level should be aware that ADN programs are often more competitive than other programs at the same institution. Wallace, for instance notes that 2.5 is the minimum GPA for admission, but that it is no guarantee of acceptance.

Universities often consider multiple indicators of success: career goals as well as strong academic performance.

Alabama Board of Nursing Approved ADN Programs

Virginia College in Montgomery

The Virginia College in Birmingham Associate Degree in Nursing program is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.

Alabama Board of Nursing Approved BSN Programs

Samford University – Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing

Samford University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Program and the Alabama Board of Nursing. Samford University is an NLN Center of Excellence in Nursing Education.

Programs Offered: RN to MSN (for associate’s and diploma RNs), MSN – (Specializations: Nurse Anesthesia (CRNA), Nurse Educator, Management, Family Nurse Practitioner), MSN/MBA, DNP, Post-Master’s Certificate (Specializations: Family nurse Practitioner, Education, Management)

Samford University – Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, AL 35229