How to Become an RN in Kansas (A Complete 2023 Guide)

In Kansas, the road to a nursing career may seem overwhelming, but you can definitely surpass it. 

Plus, we’re here to help. 

We’ve created a simple but complete guide on how to become an RN in Kansas. In this article, we’ll walk you through ALL the steps — from planning your career to your first nursing job. 

To summarize, we’ll look at:

• Setting your career goals
• Begin preparation
• Choosing a nursing program 
• Finding a nursing school
• Applying for your RN license
• Landing your first job

And, with that, let’s begin!

The 6 Steps to Becoming an RN in Kansas

Here are the 6 steps to becoming an RN in Kansas:

1. Set a clear career goal
2. Start preparing
3. Get a nursing program that fits your career goal
4. Pick a nursing school
5. Get your RN license
6. Get your first nursing job

Now, let’s go through these steps in detail.

Step 1: Set a Clear Career Goal 

Before you even begin, pause and ask yourself why you want to become a nurse and what kind of nurse you want to be. Being clear about these questions will come in handy as you go through the steps. 

It’ll come in handy when you’re applying for a nursing school — most institutions will require you to answer an essay question about it. You might as well think about it while you’re not under pressure to put it on paper.

But more than the why, you also need to consider the what.

What kind of nurse do I want to be? How do I see my nursing career 10 years from now?

Do you see yourself working in a hospital setting in the long run? Or do you prefer to work in public health or the academe?

Your answers may have a significant impact when you reach step 3 – choosing a nursing program.

Step 2: Start Preparing

It’s a good advantage to start gaining nursing experience. 

You can volunteer in a healthcare facility, shadow a nurse, or even just participate in a blood drive. All these add to your knowledge about the field.

Of course, you can’t ignore your grades. It’s best to keep your GPA up. The higher it is, the better your chances of getting into your preferred nursing school.

Remember, nursing schools have different course requirements, but anatomy, microbiology, physiology, psychology, chemistry, sociology, and algebra are safe bets. You can get ahead by taking some of these courses early on.

Step 3: Get a Nursing Program that Fits Your Career Goals

For RNs in Kansas, you can choose to take one of two nursing programs — an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

To be sure, both have their benefits and drawbacks. So it’s always a good idea to weigh everything in, including your career goals.  

Here is a table showing you the differences between the two programs.

If you want to enter the workforce sooner rather than later, taking an ADN is your best option. That said, a BSN is better if you prefer working in public health or the academe.

Which nursing career path do you want to take?

Step 4: Pick a Nursing School

Next up, you have to pick a nursing school. 

Of course, your primary consideration is whether or not a school offers your preferred program. It should be approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing, too. 

Also, you might want to look at other aspects, including:

• Reputation: There are 38 nursing schools in Kansas. The CCNE accredits 15, while ACEN covers 20. Make sure your school is one of these.

• Mode of Teaching: Are you open to an online program? It may provide some flexibility with schedules and costs that traditional in-person classes may not.

• Quality of Instructors: You deserve to get your education from credible instructors. Check how many full-time instructors a school has. Check also if they have doctorate degrees and cover several nursing specialties.

• Class Size: A school with a smaller teacher-to-student ratio lets you experience a more personalized approach. Your instructor may have more time to support you if you need it.

• Financial Support: As the table in the previous section mentioned, a nursing program may eat into your finances. Whether pursuing an ADN or BSN, financial programs are always helpful.

• NCLEX Pass Rates: You can tell how well a school prepares its graduates for the licensing exam by the number of applicants who pass on their first try.

• Post-Graduation Assistance: You might want a school that has established partnerships with healthcare facilities. This way, they can assist you when you want to enter the workforce.

Step 5: Get Your RN License

Fast forward a couple of years, you’re now either an ADN or BSN graduate. 

You’re now ready to apply for your RN license in Kansas. In other words, you’re now ready to take the NCLEX exam. 

Here are the steps to getting your RN license in Kansas:

1. Submit a completed application form to the Board. 
2. Make your nursing school directly submit your nursing program official transcripts to the Board.
3. Pay the application fee (you can see the fees in the application form)
4. Submit a criminal background check (you need to get this before you apply as the processing time can take 4 weeks. It will cost you $48.)
5. Wait for your application to be processed by the Kansas Board of Nursing 
6. Register for the NCLEX with Pearson Vue. The testing fee is $200.
7. Once approved, you will receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) with your NCLEX schedule and exam instructions.
8. Pass the NCLEX exam
9. Get your RN license

Note: Applicants who graduated from a foreign nursing program must have their transcripts evaluated by the CGFNS. You also need to pass a TOEFL exam if English is not your first language.

Step 6: Get Your First Nursing Job

Your nursing career officially begins when you sign a job offer. 

You should check out healthcare facilities that can give you the experience that’ll eventually lead you to your desired role. 

It’s best to explore what’s available in your area — and remember, don’t limit yourself to hospitals!

Once you have your shortlist, tap into your network. Check for connections who may be able to share information about these places. You can also start going through their website and discover job openings.

Lastly, send in your application. Be prepared to undergo an interview. It’ll be your chance to show them what you have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got some questions? Then let’s answer the most frequently asked questions about RNs in Kansas. 

How much do RNs make in Kansas?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics pegs the average salary for RNs in the US at $82,750. Those in Kansas received 19% lower. The average compensation rate is $66,560.

Remember, these are only averages. Several factors can affect your actual pay. These include your role, the organization, and your degree.

Which cities in Kansas pay the highest for RNs?

According to Incredible Health, the cities that offer the highest salaries for RNs are as follows:

• Topeka — $69,320 per year on average
• Lawrence — $65,160 per year on average
• Manhattan — $63,480 per year on average
• Wichita — $63,260 per year on average

When do I need to renew my RN license in Kansas?

RNs in Kansas need to undergo the renewal process biennially. You can check your license’s exact expiration date on KBN’s License Verification Database.

To renew, you must earn 30 hours of continuing education.

Helpful Resources for Kansas RNs

• Kansas Board of Nursing Website (Official)
• Information for RN Applicants (Official)
• Kansas RN Continuing Education Requirements (Official)
• Associate Degree Programs (ADNS) Approved by Kansas BON
• Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) approved by Kansas BON

List of Associate Degree Programs (ADNs) in Kansas

Here’s a list of ADN programs approved by the Kansas BON:

Visit the Kansas BON website for updates.

List of Baccalaureate Degree Programs (BSNs) in Kansas

Here’s a list of BSN programs approved by the Kansas BON:

Visit the Kansas BON website for updates.

In Conclusion

So there you have it!

Your complete guide on how to become an RN in Kansas. 

Sure, each step will take time, dedication, and investment. But when you reach the final step, you’ll feel nothing but satisfaction and a sense of achievement. 

Yes, you have to put in the effort, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. Believe in yourself. You can do this!

Good luck!