For aspiring nurses in the Atlanta area, the pathway from Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to Registered Nurse (RN) offers a rewarding progression in the field of healthcare. CNA to RN programs provide a structured approach for those looking to elevate their nursing credentials and responsibilities. These programs are designed to build upon the foundational skills acquired as a CNA, extending into more advanced clinical knowledge and patient care techniques required for RN licensure.
This page will explore the options available for CNAs in Atlanta who are eager to advance their careers by becoming RNs.
Gwinnett Technical College
Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville, Georgia, offers a comprehensive Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that is designed to meet the demands of the evolving healthcare industry. This program is ideal for those looking to begin or advance their nursing careers, offering several pathways including a traditional option as well as bridge options for LPNs, Paramedics, and Surgical Technologists.
Program Structure and Learning Environment
The ADN program at Gwinnett Tech blends rigorous classroom learning with hands-on laboratory and clinical experiences. This structure ensures that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain practical skills necessary for high-quality patient care. The diverse educational experiences prepare students for the complexities of modern nursing roles in various healthcare settings.
Accreditation and Approvals
The nursing program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approval from the Georgia Board of Nursing. This accreditation reaffirms the program’s commitment to meeting national educational standards. The latest accreditation status by the ACEN is Continuing Accreditation, which indicates ongoing compliance with their rigorous standards.
Career Prospects and Further Education
Graduates of the ADN program are qualified to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Passing this exam allows them to become licensed registered nurses, capable of working in diverse settings such as hospitals, home healthcare, and community care facilities. Additionally, many graduates choose to further their education by transferring to four-year colleges to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), facilitated by Gwinnett Tech’s transfer agreements.
Cost and Financial Support
The program is economically priced at $107 per credit hour plus additional fees. Gwinnett Tech also offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants like the HOPE Grant and HOPE Scholarship, making it an affordable choice for prospective students.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Attendance at a Monthly Information Session for detailed program information
- Application to the specific nursing track of interest (traditional, LPN Bridge, Paramedic Bridge, or Surgical Technologist Bridge)
- Meet specific requirements for the chosen bridge program if applicable
This program at Gwinnett Technical College represents a solid choice for those aspiring to become registered nurses, combining affordability with a robust curriculum and multiple pathways to licensure and further education.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $107 per credit hour + fees |
| Program Duration | Varies by specific program track |
| Class Schedules | Details available at Monthly Information Sessions |
| Website | Gwinnett Tech Nursing |
| Location | 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 |
| Phone | 770-962-7580 |
| Online Classes | No |
Georgia State University, Perimeter College Nursing Program
Georgia State University’s Perimeter College offers a robust Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program designed to prepare students for a career as a Registered Nurse (RN). Approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the healthcare field.
Program Options and Structure
Perimeter College provides two main tracks for nursing students: the Generic Track and the LPN-RN Bridge Track. The Generic Track is tailored for individuals entering nursing from high school or another field, aiming to complete their training and become RNs. The LPN-RN Bridge Track is specifically designed for Licensed Practical Nurses seeking to advance their careers and assume more comprehensive nursing responsibilities.
Learning Environment and Resources
The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, facilitated by the latest healthcare technology in the Nursing Simulation Lab. Students engage in practical training and clinical rotations across various healthcare settings in metro Atlanta, working alongside experienced RNs and EMTs. This practical approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and subsequent RN licensure.
Unique Opportunities and Support
Students at Perimeter College benefit from partnerships with major healthcare providers for their clinical rotations, including DeKalb Medical Center and Piedmont Healthcare. Additionally, the Student Nurses Association offers networking, scholarship opportunities, and leadership training, enhancing the educational experience and career prospects.
Information and Webinars
Prospective students can learn more about the program specifics, admission requirements, and application process through scheduled webinars hosted via Webex. These sessions provide a comprehensive overview and allow for real-time questions and answers.
Campus Location
The nursing program is based at the Clarkston campus:
555 North Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston, GA 30021
Admission Requirements
- Completion of Nursing General Education courses (specific biology courses and labs required)
- Attendance at an informational webinar to understand the program and application process
- For the LPN-RN Bridge Track, completion of all prerequisite courses is mandatory
This ASN program at Georgia State University’s Perimeter College stands out for its accredited curriculum, comprehensive training, and extensive support networks, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses in Georgia.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | 4 semesters for the Generic Track, 3 semesters for the LPN-RN Bridge Track |
| Class Schedules | Varies; classes and clinical experiences occur on different days and times |
| Website | Perimeter College Nursing |
| Location | 555 North Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston, GA 30021 |
| Phone | 678-891-3840 |
| Online Classes | No |
Albany State University Healthcare-Professional-to-RN Bridge Program
Albany State University, through its Darton College of Health Professions, offers an accelerated Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) designed for healthcare professionals looking to transition to registered nursing. This program is offered at two locations in Albany, requiring those in the Atlanta area to commute at least two hours or relocate to Albany.
Program Structure and Schedule
The Healthcare-Professional-to-RN Bridge program is structured to accommodate busy professionals, meeting just once a week to cover classroom lectures, online activities, and clinical rotations. It alternates entry points every five semesters, with starts in the spring, summer, or fall. This flexible schedule is available on both the Albany and Cordele campuses of Albany State University.
Clinical and Educational Experience
Students will engage in comprehensive clinical experiences in various settings, including hospitals and specialty clinics in the South West Georgia region. The program focuses on providing hands-on training in state-of-the-art clinical skills labs and through partnerships with local healthcare facilities. This practical approach is designed to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN and ready to deliver high-quality patient care.
Program Admission and Progression
Freshmen interested in this track must initially enroll as Health Science majors with a secondary major indicator of “AS in Nursing.” The first two semesters are dedicated to completing core nursing classes, after which students can apply to transition into the nursing program. This bridge program requires four additional consecutive semesters of study, integrating the remaining core curriculum.
Clinical Compliance and Requirements
All students must adhere to the strict guidelines and conduct codes set by clinical sites. Non-compliance or behavioral issues can lead to dismissal from a clinical setting, which may impact a student’s ability to progress in the program. Albany State University emphasizes the importance of professionalism and ethical conduct in its training.
Career Advancement and Further Education
Upon completion, graduates are equipped to pass the NCLEX-RN and begin working as RNs across various healthcare settings. The program also prepares students for further educational pursuits, such as baccalaureate and graduate-level nursing programs, enhancing their career advancement opportunities.
Admission Requirements
- Active LPN or Paramedic licensure
- Completion of core pre-nursing courses as part of the Health Science major
- Compliance with application deadlines and pre-admission university requirements
- Commitment to meet once a week for lectures, online activities, and clinical rotations
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified; contact the institution for details. |
| Program Duration | Approximately 2 years, inclusive of core pre-nursing courses. |
| Class Schedules | Weekly sessions including lectures, online activities, and clinical rotations. |
| Website | ASU Healthcare-Professional-to-RN Bridge Program |
| Location | Albany and Cordele Campuses, Albany State University |
| Phone | Not available; please refer to the website for contact information. |
| Online Classes | Some courses available in online or hybrid formats. |
Chattahoochee Technical College’s ASN Program
Chattahoochee Technical College, located at the Paulding Campus in Dallas, Georgia, offers a comprehensive Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program. This program is rigorously designed to train students in both academic and practical aspects of nursing, preparing them to meet the demands of the healthcare sector effectively.
Program Design and Accreditation
The ASN program integrates classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory and clinical activities, ensuring students can apply nursing concepts and skills effectively in real-world settings. This program is fully approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), highlighting its commitment to high educational standards.
Learning Outcomes and Clinical Exposure
Students in the program develop critical nursing judgment skills essential for patient care management and are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs). The curriculum includes courses like Medical Surgical Nursing and Transitions to Professional Practice, with clinical rotations providing real-world healthcare experience.
Program Flexibility and Special Tracks
The ASN program is structured to be completed in four semesters for students who have met all prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of ‘C’. Chattahoochee Tech offers two pathways within the ASN program: a Traditional Option and an LPN-A.S.N. Bridge Option, catering to both new entrants and existing healthcare professionals looking to advance their careers.
Clinical Partnerships and Learning Environment
Clinical experiences are a cornerstone of the ASN program, with placements in various healthcare settings that allow students to apply their classroom knowledge in practical environments. These experiences are designed to make students clinically competent and confident in their nursing skills.
Graduation and Career Prospects
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN, and successful candidates are granted licensure to practice as RNs in Georgia. The program’s goal is not only to prepare students for immediate employment but also to provide a foundation for lifelong learning and advancement in the nursing field.
Admission Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Completion of associate degree level prerequisite courses in Health Sciences or Interdisciplinary Studies- Nursing track.
- Meeting all general admission requirements of Chattahoochee Technical College.
- Competitive admission process; completion of prerequisites does not guarantee program admission.
This ASN program at Chattahoochee Technical College stands out for its robust curriculum, accredited status, and the practical readiness it offers students stepping into diverse nursing roles.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified; please contact the institution for detailed costs. |
| Program Duration | 4 semesters, following completion of prerequisites |
| Class Schedules | Regular on-campus classes complemented by clinical rotations |
| Website | Chattahoochee Technical College ASN Program |
| Location | 400 Nathan Dean Blvd, Dallas, GA 30132 |
| Phone | (770) 528-4545 |
| Academic advisor emails available through the Office of Advisement webpage | |
| Online Classes | No specific mention; inquire directly for potential online or hybrid options |