A Registered Nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who advocates for and cares for individuals through all stages of health and illness, providing direct patient care and making important decisions about treatment plans. Becoming a licensed RN in Mississippi is a regulated process that ensures professionals meet defined standards for safe practice. This process requires a specific educational background, successful completion of a national examination, and approval from the state’s regulatory board.
Educational Paths to Becoming an RN in Mississippi
The journey to licensure begins with completing a nursing education program formally approved by the Mississippi Board of Nursing (MS BON). This approval is required for a graduate to be eligible to sit for the national licensing examination. Prospective students have two main educational routes to become an RN.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the minimum level of education required to qualify for RN licensure by examination in Mississippi. These programs are commonly offered by community colleges across the state and typically take two years to complete. The curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing theory and clinical practice, preparing graduates for entry-level roles primarily in acute care settings.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the four-year degree option offered by universities. BSN programs include a more in-depth curriculum that covers topics like research, leadership, and community health, preparing nurses for a broader range of responsibilities. This degree is increasingly becoming the preferred qualification by many employers in Mississippi, offering advantages for career advancement and specialized roles. Earning a BSN also serves as the necessary academic groundwork for nurses interested in pursuing advanced practice degrees later in their career.
Preparing for and Passing the NCLEX Exam
After successfully completing an MS BON-approved nursing program, the next mandatory step is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized examination is required for licensure. Candidates must register directly with Pearson VUE, the examination provider, and pay the required testing fee. The Mississippi Board of Nursing must first process the candidate’s application for licensure by examination and receive an official transcript. Once approved, the candidate receives an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE, allowing them to schedule and take the exam.
The Mississippi RN Licensure Application Process
Securing a license in Mississippi requires a formal application process managed by the Mississippi Board of Nursing (MS BON) after the NCLEX-RN is passed. The MS BON regulates the practice of nursing through licensure as provided for by state law. Applicants must submit an online application for licensure by examination and pay the associated non-refundable application fee.
A mandatory criminal background check (CBC) is part of the application process for all new nurses, and this step requires a separate fee. Applicants must submit fingerprints to the MS BON for processing.
The MS BON must also receive the applicant’s official transcript directly from the nursing program, verifying the degree and date of completion. Transcripts sent by the applicant themselves will not be accepted.
The board must also receive the official NCLEX-RN results directly from the testing service. All required documentation must be completed within one year from the date the initial application was submitted. The MS BON grants the license only after all these requirements are successfully met.
Maintaining Your RN License in Mississippi
Once the initial license is granted, an RN must adhere to the state’s requirements for maintaining an active license. The Mississippi RN license operates on a biennial renewal cycle, expiring on December 31st in even-numbered years.
Mississippi does not mandate continuing education (CE) for actively practicing RNs for routine renewal. However, if an RN has been out of practice for a period greater than five years, they are required to complete a minimum of 20 contact hours of accepted continuing education before their license can be renewed or reinstated.
Career Outlook for Registered Nurses in Mississippi
Registered Nurses in Mississippi can expect a stable job market with a positive outlook for future employment, mirroring the national trend of rising demand. Areas of high demand often include specialized units in hospitals, such as critical care, and positions in rural healthcare settings.
The average annual salary for a Registered Nurse in Mississippi is around $63,130, which is lower than the national average. However, Mississippi maintains the lowest cost of living in the country. This means an RN’s earning potential is financially competitive when adjusted for the low cost of housing and other expenses. Nurses who pursue advanced roles, specialization, or work in metropolitan areas like Pascagoula or Gulfport can expect to earn a salary significantly above the state average.