LPN Programs in Illinois
Licensed Practical Nurses, are in big demand in Illinois. In fact, the Illinois Department of Employment Security, or IDES, have estimated that between now and 2016, there will be an increase in available jobs in the field of around 20%.
That makes this one of the fastest growing career options in the state, and an attractive option for anyone looking to get into healthcare. Before you make a decision, however, there are a few things you should know about becoming an Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Illinois.
State Approval for LPN Training in Illinois
If you want to become an LPN in Illinois, you have only two options: find a training course that is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation’s Professional Regulation department, or provide the state licensing authorities with a certificate of training from another state. Taking any training courses in Illinois, and hoping to become an LPN will not work – so make sure you check before you sign up for any courses.
Finding Accredited LPN Training Programs In Illinois
The good news is that there’s an extensive list of state approved LPN training courses, throughout Illinois. Most are offered by adult education and training facilities, colleges, community colleges and technical and practical schools, and there are courses in most cities, so you should have no trouble finding one nearby.
Getting Registered As An LPN in Illinois
Once you have completed a state approved LPN training course in Illinois (a process that can take anything from a year upwards), the next step is licensing. You will need to pass the NCLEX-PN licensing exam, and you will need to pass a criminal background check, but once you have, you can apply for registration with the state.
Working As An LPN In Illinois
LPN’s in Illinois, as in other states, work under the supervision of a RN, doctor or dentist, in hospitals, nursing homes and facilities, clinics and other medical practices. The job is a combination of physical and mental work, and requires a special love of helping people. It’s also fast paced, and requires a high level of responsibility.
Earnings and Prospects for LPN’s In Illinois
We’ve already mentioned that there is expected to be an increase of 20% in the demand for licensed practical nurses in Illinois over the next four or five years. That means that there’s no shortage of available jobs. With salaries of around $39,000 for LPNs in the state, you’ll not only have plenty of opportunities, but earn a good living too, and with possibilities for further study and advancement on the table too, this is a great way to get a start in the healthcare business.
Accredited LPN Schools, Training Classes & Programs in Illinois
Americare Institute
1300 Greenbrook Blvd. Ste. 101
Hanover Park, IL 60133
There is no waiting list for this school’s LPN Program. LPN students have the option of attending classes full time or part time, in either day or evening classes. They offer students in the practical nursing program assistance to access jobs after graduating. FFA and scholarships are accessible to students who qualify.
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Americare Technical School
2604 W. Dempster Street
Park Ridge, IL 60068
The LPN Program offered at this private vocational school was first started in 2002. It is a school with a community-based environment which offers various nursing degrees. This school focuses on teaching the skills needed to be a successful nurse. They offer an affordable LPN Program with flexible study schedules.
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Beck Area Career Center
6137 Beck Road
Red Bud, IL 62278
This full-time LPN Program can be completed in eleven months. When the practical nursing program has been completed, the student will receive a degree and be recommended to sit the NCLEX-PN. Applicants must submit a High School Diploma, transcripts and recommendations, and attend an interview before being accepted into the program.
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Black Hawk College
6600 34th Avenue
Moline, IL 61265
Applicants to this college’s licensed practical nursing program can apply to one or more of the many scholarships available to them. The scholarship foundation has more than 200 scholarships listed. They are available to students who study part-time or full –time. This school is the home of the Black Hawk Braves and the Black Hawk Warriors.
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CAAN, Coalition of African American Nurses, Inc
1605 S. Wentworth Ave.
Calumet City, IL 60409
This is a non-profit academy that caters to the needs of inner city students who would not otherwise be able to get into a regular college. The academy was founded in 2002 and expanded in 2004. They are affiliated with the Department of Finance and Professional Regulations in order to bring the LPN program to adults and high school graduates.
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Capital Area Voc Center
2201 Toronto Road
Springfield, IL 62707
This licensed practical nursing program has a total of 1330 hours of classes. Students attend theory and clinical classes. This LPN Program is an accelerated one that can be completed in only nine months, three months less than the average LPN Programs. To fill the need of their students, there are two LPN Programs running consecutively.
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Carl Sandburg College
2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd
Galesburg, IL 61401
Applicants to the licensed practical nursing program are accepted based on points generated from their materials submitted and the levels at which they meet the admission requirements. The practical nursing program has a day class in addition to distant learning classes. A maximum of 40 students are accepted into the day classes on this campus.
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CCC Wilbur Wright College
1645 North California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647
Applicants to the LPN Program who have trouble funding their studies can apply for financial aid from various foundations and groups through this collage. Students in the LPN Program who are in the military, or veterans, or are dependents of any of the two, are eligible for fee waivers and specific benefits.
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The Chicago Public Schools Practical Nursing Program
2245 West Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60612
This is a two year high school practical nursing program approved by the city’s Health Care Council. All the students enrolled in this program must have an active malpractice insurance coverage. Students are also required to submit to background check after graduation and before applying to take the NCLEX-PN state examination.
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CMK Healthcare
290 Town Center Lane
Glendale Heights, IL 60559
Applicants to the LPN Program must present a valid high School Diploma or GED and valid certifications; CNA, CPR & BLS. They must undergo a physical exam and have proof of a recent or valid PPD or TB Test or a chest x-ray. All students in the practical nursing program must have medical insurance.
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College of DuPage
425 Fawell Blvd.
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137-6599
This school offers many resources to its student because they believe it is important for all students to have a well-rounded, balanced lifestyle. Especially if they are going into the field of nursing, as this can sometimes be very hectic. All students in the LPN Program can join any of the school’s clubs. There is a Philosophy club, Photo Club, and even a Practical Nursing Students Association.
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Danville Area Community College / Ladder *
2000 East Main St.
Danville, IL 61832
This is an Associate Degree in nursing program that allows practical nursing students to take the NCLEX-PN exams after completing one year. There are many male and female athletic activities to keep you active. Also, join one of the various clubs and organizations on campus and take advantage of the student services available.
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Elgin Community College
1700 Spartan Drive
Elgin, IL 60123
This college has a unique LPN Program. They make great use of the technology available when instructing their students. They utilize distant learning, discussions, videotapes, computer simulations, and laboratory practice. This allows students to fully understand and prepare for the real-life occurrences in their occupation through engaging practices.
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Great Paragon Healthcare, Inc.
1251 W. Devon Ave.
Chicago, IL 60660
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Heartland Community College / Ladder
1500 West Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761
This is a one year certificate, 41 credit LPN program. In districts student s are given preference for admissions into the program so long as the requirements are met. The admissions process is very selective and not all students who apply may be admitted. A criminal background check and a drug screen are mandatory for entry.
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Highland Community College / Ladder
2998 Pearl City Road
Freeport, IL 61032
This school’s LPN Program has about 23 students in each class, allowing students to interact closely with their lecturers and instructors for a better understanding of their coursework. About 4000 students join the school population each school year and matriculate in any of the 60 majors offered at the school.
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Illinois Central College
201 SW Adams St.
Peoria, IL 61635
Students in the licensed practical nursing program have access to some of the most technologically advanced resources to help with their studies. The school encourages the use of technology for academic and administrative use. LPN students can access the school’s wireless network and even buy computers from the school for their studies.
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Illinois Eastern Community College of Nursing / Ladder
305 N. West Street
Olney, IL 62450
Students must supply proof of residency in order to receive a discount on tuition as; out of state and international fees differ from in state fees. Credits may be awarded to students who served in the military. Those wanting to become licensed practical nurses can either do the first year of associate degree in nursing or enter the practical nursing certificate program.
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Illinois Valley Community College / Ladder
815 N. Orlando Smith Ave.
Oglesby, IL 61348
This school has an adult program where you can obtain your GED, ABE and ESL certificate. There are several counseling services available such as personal counseling, academic advising, career advising and transfer services. The LPN program requires 40 credits to graduate and is completed in one year. According the school there is a 99% employment rate.
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International Career Institute
6425 N. Hamlin Ave.
Lincolnwood, IL 60712
This collage’s LPN Program is one of many programs offered at this school. Applicants must present their transcripts, high School diploma, or GED, and submit to background checks. It is a part of a group of affiliated collages founded in 1978. Together these schools serve thousands of students each year.
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J. Renee Career Facilitation, Inc.
7105 N. Virginia Road, Suite 1
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
This collages LPN Program is a one year, full-time program. It includes 688 hours of study in the classroom and in clinical experience. LPN Program classes are available in day and evening classes to meet the demands of students. LPN students study a combination of Adult health nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Medical Surgical Nursing Practices.
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John A Logan Community College
700 Logan, College Road
Carterville, IL 62918
Both males and females can participate in the athletic activities at this college. There are federal and state grants and a work study program among the financial aid options available. The licensed practical nursing program is a three semester program and CPR is taught as one of the first courses in the first semester.
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John Wood Community College
1301 South 48th Street
Quincy, IL 62305
This collage provides career services for all their graduates of the LPN Program. The LPN Program is a certificate program. Courses include human Anatomy and Physiology, English, Psychology, and the Basic nursing Skills. There are veterans benefits, loans, grants and scholarships available for those who qualify.
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Joliet Junior College / Ladder
1215 Houbolt Road
Joliet, IL 60431
The LPN Program is a certificate program requiring 41 credits in total. Students attend their theory classes on campus and attend clinical sessions at various health care facilities in and around the area. Study hours are approximately 38 hours per week. There is a library on campus and tutoring support services.
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Kankakee Community College
100 College Drive
Kankakee, IL 60901
Students in the LPN Program can take part in the school’s various fraternities, Student Nurses Association, Student Advisory Council, Veterans Club, or Student Activities Board. This allows them to socialize with other students and relax. In order to successfully complete this course, students need to pass their coursework with a ‘C’ or higher.
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Kaskaskia College LPN Program
27210 College Road
Centralia, IL 62801
The beauty of this collage’s LPN Program is that it allows students to practice in a wide variety of settings. Students attend theory and clinical classes in hospitals, in the community, nursing homes, and physician’s offices. This allows students to be confident when they have received their license and have started working.
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Kishwaukee College / Ladder
21193 Malta Road
Malta, IL 60150
You must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 in order to graduate and receive your certificate of achievement in the practical nursing program. Certified nursing assistants can enter the program and be exempted from doing some of the courses. This LPN program requires 44 semester hours to complete. There is a counseling and student development center available.
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Lake Land College
5001 Lake Land Blvd.
Mattoon, IL 61938
This collage facilitates this with their numerous athletic clubs and groups. They have volleyball, baseball, cheer-leading, and softball teams. Students in the LPN Program are encouraged to participate in at least one of them. Students must print their text book list and take to the book store along with their student ID card in order to pick up their books.
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Lincoln Land Community College / Ladder
5250 Shepherd Road
P.O. Box 19256
Springfield, IL 62794
All students enrolled in the LPN Program must maintain a grade of ‘C’ or higher. Those who cannot maintain this grade will not be able to complete the program. LPN courses include Anatomy, Physiology, and basic nursing skills training. There is a workforce development and community education program at this college.
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Morraine Valley Community College / Ladder
9000 W. College Parkway
Palos Hills, IL 60465
Applicants to this LPN Program must submit to background checks, a check for a criminal record, and various tests. They must show valid proof of vaccines, and health tests. The LPN Program combines clinical and lectures to provide the best possible training for students. Scholarships, loans, and grants are available.
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Morton College / Ladder
3801 South Central Avenue
Cicero, IL 60804
This racially diverse collage has one of the most intense LPN Programs. Lessons are conducted in and out of the classroom, to facilitate the complete instructions of the student. Licensed Practical Nursing students must attend theory and clinical sessions where they will get to practice first hand, the skills they will need.
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Northwestern Institute of Health and Technology
4641 N. Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640
This licensed practical nursing program covers 1100 hours of theory and clinical experience. Students will study the Fundamentals of Nursing, Obstetric Nursing, and Medical Surgery. Financial aid has been approved for the LPN program here. The financial aid department will give thorough assistance in applying for the best option.
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Oakton Community College / Ladder
1600 E. Golf Rd.
Des Plaines, IL 60016
This college has over 1000 programs. The LPN Option prepares future nurses for the quickly growing field. It is estimated that the need for practical nurses will increase by over 20 per cent in the next five years. Practical Nursing students have access to student services, distance learning, and courses that can be completed online. Prerequisites include successful completion, with at least a grade “C”, of NUR 105, NUR 106, NUR 108.
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Omega Healthcare Technical School
400 W. Higgins
Park Ridge, IL 60068
There are several general education courses students can take to make up credits before entering the LPN program. The school offers five health care programs and practical nursing is one of them. A TABE entrance test is a part of the admissions requirement. You must be a nursing assistant to enter the practical nursing program. The nursing assistant program is offered at the school.
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Parkland College
2400 West Bradley Avenue
Champaign, IL 61821
This college provides a safe and well-established environment for students to complete their LPN Program. They have a dependable and unbeatable response system that serves its students, staff, and visitors. This will give the students and faculty the peace of mind to focus on their tasks and successfully complete their courses.
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PCCTI – PC Center Training Institute
2021 Midwest Road, Suite 300
Oak Brook, IL 60523
This school’s licensed practical nursing program uses a technologically advanced system in addition to basic teaching methods to instruct their students. Those enrolled in the LPN Program will get the chance to study in laboratory simulations settings on campus. They will also have access to clinical externships in hospitals and nursing homes
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Rend Lake College
468 North Ken Gray Parkway
Ina, IL 62846
Campus life at this college is active and vibrant with many activities to choose from; such as athletics, cultural events, theater, music events and much more. Even though the college does not provide housing they have a list of recommended rentals you can choose from. The practical nursing program is completed in less than three semesters with the third semester only carrying one course.
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Richland Community College
One College Park
Decatur, IL 62521
This collage gives students in the licensed practical nursing program the opportunity to fund their education through various means. The collage has a foundation formed in 1980, which focuses on investing in the education of students who need it. Each year, the foundation awards scholarships and grants to more than 500 students.
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Rock Valley College
3301 North Mulford Road
Rockford, IL 61114
Applicants to the licensed practical nursing program must submit their high School Diploma or GED. They are required to sit and pass one of the four entrance tests provided at various assessment centers. Before matriculating in the practical nursing program students must undergo a background check, physical examinations, and a TB test.
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Sauk Valley Community College
173 IL. Rt. 2
Dixon, IL 61021
This practical nursing program is a three semester program that allows two entry options; full entry and entry for those that have completed some of the nursing courses prior to application. The school community is and active one with athletics, theater and a fitness center. There are support services such as counseling, student government and tutoring. A bookstore and library are also available.
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Shawnee Community College
8364 Shawnee College Rd.
Ullin, IL 62992
The athletics department includes a fitness center, basketball and baseball for both men and women. The school also has a transport service that provides students with the necessary travel to and from campus. If you are having difficulty completing your course work the tutorial program might be right for you. The LPN program can be completed full time or part time.
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South Suburban College
15800 S. State Street
South Holland, IL 60473
Students in the LPN Program are chosen based on their grade point average, which should not be less than 2.0. They should have completed their course work with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Before completing the LPN Program, students must pass an exit test, which will determine if they have successfully completed the program.
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Southeastern Illinois College
3575 College Road
Harrisburg, IL 62946
Applicants to the LPN Program must show their High School Diploma or GED, transcripts, and valid vaccination information. There are scholarships, grants, and loans available to students who need assistance in funding their studies. Students are instructed in a classroom setting and in clinical experiences. A state-of-the-art library serves the students in print, media and electronic formats.
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Spoon River College LPN Program
23235 N. County 22
Canton, IL 61520
Students who need assistance in funding their education can access federal and private funds. Some scholarships available to prospective nurses in the LPN Program are the Rosie Brown Scholarship, The Marilyn Casey Scholarship, and the Illinois Health Improvement Association Scholarship. The program requires 40 credits to complete.
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Triton College / Ladder
2000 North 5th Avenue
River Grove, IL 60171
Prospective students can look forward to many resources and activities at this college; some of which are athletics, tutoring, counseling and personal development. The college stands on over 100 acres of land and is one of the largest in the city, and that is why they have their own police station on campus. The licensed practical nursing program requires a pre-semester and two regular semesters of course work.
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William Rainey Harper College
1200 West Algonquin Road
Palatine, IL 60067
This collage provides a number of services for the students in their LPN Program, as well as students pursuing other degrees and certificates. Some of the specialized services offered to students are career counseling, disability services, women’s program and health and psychological services. All practical nursing applicants must provide proof of passing the CNA registry exam.
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*The ladder nursing curriculum prepares a student to do the job of a Practical Nurse (Level I) or a Registered Nurse (Level II). Ladder LPN programs mean that a student is allowed to exit the program either at the first level of nursing education with a Practical Nursing Certificate and go on to sit for the national licensure exam for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN). Alternatively, the student may opt to continue to the second level to earn an Associate in Nursing Degree (ADN) so as to be eligible to take the Registered Nurse (RN) licensure examination – NCLEX-RN.