Illinois LPN
IL LPN Schools, LPN Programs and LPN Salary Data

Illinois has a growing number of opportunities in the nursing field. Within the state, LPNs make up 17 % of nurses in the state. The Illinois LPN comfort score is 81. This takes into account the average LPN salary, average state salary and cost of living. The Illinois RN comfort score is higher at 126. The difference between the two illustrates that obtaining an RN degree in this state is a nice increase in comfort but not large enough to be worth it to everyone. Illinois nursing schools and universities can provide more information that can help you pursue either degree. In Illinois, the city of Chicago is the area that has most prevalent number of potential educational institutions and job opportunities for an LPN.

Checklist to become a Illinois LPN:

1. Earn your LPN Degree, 1 year of courses and hands-on practice.
2. Apply for licensure with the Illinois Board of Nursing ($85 fee) – Have your school send your transcript to them as well
3. Obtain a CPR card and pass the NCLEX-PN exam

LPN Salaries in Illinois
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) in Illinois earn an average of $19.38/hr and a yearly income of $40,790. Nurses working in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries than in non-metropolitan parts of the state, although there is likely to be a relatively higher cost of living in those areas. An LPN can work in a variety of areas within the nursing field including nursing care facilities, hospitals or a physicians’ office. Nurses working in general medical and surgical hospitals typically earn more than those working in the offices of physicians. Also, nurses make more per hour when shifts are at night or during weekends and holidays. When choosing a career path within the industry, salary is only one piece to consider. Many LPNs find a more rewarding career in a family office rather than a hospital, despite a lower salary. It is advisable for LPNs to look towards home health care agencies and long-term care facilities are the fastest growing potential employers. The LPN with several years of experience and those with certifications in geriatric health are going to be in higher demand. It is crucial to begin trying to figure out which area is the best fit for you as early as possible. Take advantage of all the offered nursing classes and programs as well as continue to educate yourself and research all the available options before deciding.

LPN Degree and Education in Illinois
In the state of Illinois, the practical nursing program is the quickest route to becoming a nurse. To earn a degree requires one year of courses as well as hands-on practice. You are required to obtain a CPR card, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam upon completion of the LPN course. With any questions about nursing programs and specific requirements, contact the admissions office of your chosen college or school.

All Illinois-licensed RNs and LPNs are in a twenty-four month renewal cycle and are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education requirements. Required education courses must be approved by the state board and are available online.

Illinois LPN Job Outlook
The nursing shortage in The United States is steadily increasing. There is a rising demand for new and more effective health procedures and life expectancy averages are continuing to climb. These issues will be reflected in the Illinois health industry and help to create an extremely strong job outlook for LPNs.

There are many nursing opportunities in all areas of Illinois. Illinois hospitals, home health companies and doctor offices are now offering flexible schedules, educational benefits, higher pay and other incentives to retain their staff and to recruit new nurses. Some hospitals are even offering sign on bonuses or student loan reimbursement up to certain maximums.

The comfort score of 81 indicates that an LPN in Illinois is fairly compensated for the job they perform. The state ranks in the middle as far as the national scores. Obtaining an RN degree will increase the score to 126 but the increase isn’t worth it to every individual. Overall, the future for Illinois nursing looks very bright. A career as an LPN in this state can provide opportunities and security.

The Illinois State Board of Nursing Website is www.idfpr.com/dpr/who/nurs.asp

Schools Currently NOT recommended: Ambria School of Nursing

Sanford-Brown College

Get the skills you need in Tech, Business, or Healthcare in as little as 9 months from Sanford-Brown College. Choose from convenient day, evening, and weekend classes. Learn more today.

Programs:

• Nursing
• Medical Assistant

Locations: Saint Peters

Brown Mackie College

Grow, evolve, become at Brown Mackie College family of schools

Programs:

• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
• Certificate in Medical Assistant
• Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
• And more...

Locations: Fenton

Illinois School of Health Careers

Look no further than Illinois School of Health Careers to give you the training you need to excel in Health Care.

Programs:

• Patient Care Technician
• Medical Assistant

Locations: Chicago

Everest College

Develop the skills to succeed in today's highly competitive business environment. Everest College can prepare you for a rewarding career in some of today's hottest fields.

Programs:

• Medical General
• Diploma - Medical Assistant
• Diploma - Medical Administrative Assistant

Locations: Earth City

SOLEX College

Explore a new direction with SOLEX College. We offer certificate and associate degree programs in the business and allied health fields at our campus in Wheeling, Illinois.

Programs:

• Certified Nurse Assistant

Locations: Wheeling

Computer Systems Institute

Get the certification you're looking for at Computer Systems Institute! Technology is growing fast, and qualified, trained and certified specialists are in demand. CSI offers programs in computers, business and healthcare that can help prepare you for a rewarding career. Learn from industry-experienced instructors!

Programs:

• Certificate Program in Healthcare - Administrative Assistant Track

Locations: Elgin