The Wheeling, West Virginia, metropolitan area is home to nearly 2,000 registered nurses (RNs), 600 licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and 700 certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Many of these healthcare professionals earned their degree or certificate at a local college or university. Thankfully, Wheeling has a breadth of nursing programs at highly regarded local schools like Belmont College, West Virginia Northern Community College, Wheeling Jesuit University, and West Liberty University.
For example, Belmont College offers an LPN certificate and several associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) programs, including traditional two-year, LPN-to-RN, and paramedic-to-RN pathways. Wheeling Jesuit University has a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree with traditional, RN-to-BSN, and accelerated pathways. The university also leads a master of science in nursing (MSN) program. West Liberty University offers these same nursing programs as well as specialized certifications such as school nurse.
Aspiring RNs must complete a hospital diploma or an ADN, BSN, or direct-entry MSN degree. Many nurses eventually pursue the MSN degree, particularly those who seek administrative responsibilities. In addition to a degree or diploma, RNs must hold a passing score on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Prospective LPNs must finish a state-approved certificate or associate’s degree program in practical nursing. They must also pass the NCLEX-PN national licensure exam before practicing. CNAs must take a brief training program and pass a state certification test for nurse aides.
Graduates of nursing programs in Wheeling, West Virginia, are prepared to seek positions at major area hospitals and health systems. The metropolitan area’s largest healthcare providers include Wheeling Hospital, Ohio Valley Medical Center, Belmont Community Hospital, and Reynolds Memorial Hospital. Local nursing salaries are noteworthy. The average RN earns more than $55,000 per year; those in senior roles can take home $60,000-$75,000 annually. LPNs in Wheeling earn just over $35,000 annually, while CNAs are paid about $24,000 per year.
If you’re ready to launch your nursing career, consider enrolling in a top local nursing school. Below we’ve listed each of the nursing programs available in Wheeling, West Virginia, as a helpful reference.