LPN Programs in Chicago, IL

As Americans live longer, there’s a greater demand for nursing care. A licensed practical nurse (LPN) cares for the injured, sick, and disabled under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed physician. LPNs primarily provide bedside care, taking patients’ vital signs, preparing and administering enemas and injections, treating bedsores, and monitoring patients to report critical changes. Through LPN training, students learn how to collect samples, record fluid intake and output, administer prescribed medications, and start intravenous fluids. LPNs, who work in physicians’ offices, may also schedule appointments, maintain records, and perform other administrative duties. Most LPNs work in hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, and nursing care facilities. However, there is tremendous growth for LPNs in long-term care facilities and private homes. LPNs in Chicago and throughout Illinois, must take the NCLEX-PN for licensure with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

City Colleges of Chicago – Wilbur Wright

The Practical Nursing program at the City Colleges of Chicago is 64 weeks long. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills to take the NCLEX-PN to become licensed practical nurses. The course content includes both theory and practical instruction in the school’s lab and at approved clinical sites. Course modules include terminology for medical careers, human structure and function, biology, introductory statistics, nursing fundaments, nursing perspectives, and nursing throughout the life span. Students must complete 49 credit hours to graduate with an advanced certificate. Graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX to become a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Admission criteria:

• Submit a completed application to the program
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Submit official high school transcripts
• Demonstrate eligibility to complete college-level math – can be demonstrated by coursework or placement testing
• Take and pass a pre-admission test
• Must have a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Complete the prerequisite courses with a grade C or better – Biology, English, Math
• Pass a criminal background check and drug screen

Tuition for the program is $2.169 per semester for completing 12+ credit hours. Additional costs for textbooks, uniforms, fees, and supplies are not included.

• Website: http://www.ccc.edu/Pages/default.aspx
• Address: 4300 N. Narragansett Ave Chicago, IL 60634
• Phone: (773) 777-7900
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 92%

Ambria College of Nursing

Graduates of Ambria’s LPN program receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN for licensure as practical nurses. Ambria’s pass rate is among the highest in Illinois as the instructors remain committed to students’ success on the exam. LPN graduates are not only qualified to assume practical nursing positions in acute care and long-term care settings, but also qualify for entry into LPN-to-RN programs. The program comprises of 392 lecture hours and 729 clinical hours for a total of 1,121. The total for the Practical Nursing Certificate is 44 credit hours. Course topics include Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Academic Success Seminar, Foundations of Nursing, Pharmacology Essentials, Adult Medical Surgical Nursing, Maternal Child Nursing, Nursing Care of Children, PN Role Transition, and PN Capstone. Students have the option to set their own pace. The accelerated schedule allows for completion in 12 months. Standard completion time is 16 months, and the extended schedule is 20 months. Transfer students can complete the program is just 8 months. Day and evening shifts are available.

Admission criteria:

• Attend a Practical Nursing Information Session
• Must have a high school diploma or GED
• Must be 18 years or older at the time of enrollment
• Submit reading placement test results
• Pass the PN entrance exam
• Complete preparatory coursework in ENG 101 and PSY 101 with a grade C or better
• Submit a copy of health records
• Undergo background checks – criminal record, health care fraud and abuse, Patriot Act terrorism check and Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System screening
• Complete satisfactory alcohol and drug screening

The cost of tuition for general education and core courses is $23,805. Additional costs include entrance exam fee, application fee, books, uniforms, nursing lab kit, and computer proficiency exam.

• Website: https://www.ambria.edu/Default.aspx
• Address: 5210 Trillium Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
• Phone: 847-397-0300
• Email: admissions@ambria.edu
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%

Verve College

Verve College’s goal is to ensure all enrolled students acquire didactic and clinical instruction in the field of practical nursing. Students who earn 84% or higher in the program and pass the exit exam increase their chances of passing the NCLEX-PN with a score of 94% or greater. The program is a one-year certificate program that prepares students to provide care for disabled, sick, and injured patients. Through a combination of classroom instruction, simulated labs, and externships in long-term and acute care settings, students cover the essential aspects of nursing, including basic nursing principles, methodology, pharmacology, and specialized nursing. The curriculum includes 1080 contact hours of theory and practical training. Areas of study include History/Legal Scope of Practical & Delegation, Asepsis & Infection Control, Nutrition, Elimination and Hygiene, Physical Assessment. Vitals, Nursing Process, Critical Thinking, Medical Calculations, Documentation, State and Body Mechanics, Patient Mobility, Lifespan Development, Wound Care, Perioperative Care, IV, Collecting Specimens, Mental Health, Pediatrics, Palliative Care, and Older Adult. Students must earn at least 90% on the ATI exit exam in order to graduate from the program. Day, weekend, and evening classes are available. The duration of the program is 12 to 14 months.

Admission criteria:

• Must have active CNA certification,
• High school diploma or GED
• Submit a completed application with the non-refundable application fee
• Submit official college transcripts for Anatomy & Physiology with a grade C or better
• Take and pass the ATI-TEAS Entrance Exam with a score of 45 % or higher
• Have a valid state ID or driver’s license
• Pass a background check and sanctions check
• Pass a 10-panel drug screen
• Submit a completed physical exam signed by a health care provider
• Provide a negative TB/PPD test
• Provide a record of immunizations
• Have a current personal medical insurance card
• Have current CPR/BLS card
• Complete and submit a personal essay – at least 400 to 500 words
• Provide two letters of professional recommendation
• Must have and maintain liability insurance throughout the program
• Have a valid social security card

Tuition is $23,995 plus $225 for the non-refundable registration and application.

• Website: https://vervecollege.edu/
• Address: 216 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 900, Chicago, IL
• Phone: (312) 920-8822
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 88%

Great Paragon Healthcare Inc.

Great Paragon Healthcare provides practical nursing training for prospective employees. The curriculum includes theory and hands-on experiences in a healthcare setting. Areas of study include fundamentals of nursing, medical surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, geriatric nursing, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, transition to practice, and leadership. Graduates will be eligible to take the state exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Morning and evening schedules are available.

Admission criteria:

• Official transcript of high school and any college courses completed
• Have a valid social security card and driver’s license
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Submit a completed application and non-refundable fee
• Pass a criminal background check
• Submit to a drug screen
• Obtain a negative TB test
• Provide immunization records
• Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum grade C – English, Mathematics, Medical Terminology, and Pharmacology
• Must have completed CNA training and be listed in the IDPH Registry

The program cost of $17,295 includes fees, books, uniforms, and supplies are not included.

• Website: http://www.greatparagonhealthcare.com/index.php
• Address: 2640 W Touhy Ave., Suite 206, Chicago, IL 60645-3147
• Phone: 773-274-7694
• Fax: 773-274-9082
• Email: info@greatparagonhealthcare.com
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 76%

ATS Institute of Technology

The practical nursing program at the ATS Institute of Technology is open for admissions three times per year. Day and evening schedules are available for the three-semester program. Course instructors combine classroom instruction and practical experiences to introduce students to the concepts of health promotion and maintenance. Modules include pharmacology, basic nursing care, disease process, behavioral health, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternity, and specialty nursing. Students practice their nursing skills in the school’s modern simulated lab before participating in clinical rotations at long-term care facilities and hospitals.

Admission criteria:

• Submit a completed application for admission
• Pay the non-refundable application fee of $30
• Schedule and take the entrance exam and achieve the required benchmark score
• Submit attestation of high school graduation or equivalency
• Submit official college transcripts if planning to transfer credits
• Schedule and complete a background check
• Attend a mandatory orientation session after acceptance
• Sign an enrollment agreement and disclosure form
• Complete the required documentation for the clinical experience
• Have valid CPR certification
• Provide up-to-date immunization records

The total cost of attendance is $32,000. Books and supplies are additional. Financial aid may be available for qualified students.

• Website: http://atsinstitute.edu/wp_chicago/
• Address: 25 East Washington St, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60602
• Phone: 312-214-2000
• Fax: 312-419-7421
• Email: ChicagoAdmissions@atsinstitute.edu
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 65%

The Aquarius Institute

The practical nursing program is 1008 clock hours, consisting of nursing and related courses to prepare graduates to work as entry-level practical nurses under the direction of a registered nurse. The training includes coordinated theory, laboratory, and clinical instruction in the classroom, and at acute care and long-term care facilities. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN after meeting all other state requirements for licensure. They will be able to provide compassionate and responsible care, communicate effectively in oral and written formats with patients and team members, and use technical skills in professional practice. Day and evening classes are available.

Admission criteria:

• Attend an interview with a Job Developer at Aquarius Institute
• Submit a completed admission application
• Submit official high school transcript or GED scores
• Submit official transcripts of any college courses completed
• Take and pass the HESI assessment
• Complete a background check and drug screen
• Have current CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association or the American Health and Safety Institute
• Provide three letters of reference
• Submit a completed health assessment and physical exam report to the Admissions Office. The report must include a negative TB test or chest x-ray and documentation of immunization

Tuition and expenses for the program will cost $19,700. It includes registration, textbooks, materials, supplies, NCLEX exam fee, and state registration. Other costs include uniforms, immunizations, background check, CPR certification, drug screen, liability insurance, and physical exam. Job placement assistance is available for all graduates.

• Website: https://www.aquariusinstitute.com/index.php
• Address: 1011 East Touhy Avenue, Suite 335, Des Plaines, IL 60018
• Phone:(847) 296-8870
• Fax: (847) 296-8860
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 67%

Northshore College

The Practical Nursing program at North Shore College operates with the approval of the Illinois Nursing Board, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). The curriculum covers 1050 hours of theory and practical instruction. Course topics include anatomy and physiology II, nursing foundation, nursing care of the chronically ill patient, care of the acutely ill patient, care of the developing family, and leadership and medication administration. The duration of the program is 11 months. Morning and evening classes are available.

Admission criteria:

• Submit a completed application and non-refundable fee of $25
• Take and pass the TABE
• Take and pass the TEAS or HESI
• Complete the Enrollment Agreement
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Have a valid state ID and social security card
• Have a high school diploma or GED scores
• Complete the prerequisite courses with a grade C or better – Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Introduction to Mental Health, Math for Nurses, and Rhetoric Communication
• Submit official college transcripts if transferring courses
• Submit health records after acceptance to the LPN program

Tuition for the program is $16,489. The cost of the prerequisite courses is $3,337.

• Website: https://www.northshorecollege.com/
• Address: 1400 S. Wolf Road – Suite 104, Wheeling, IL 60090
• Phone: 847-850-5700
• Fax: 847-850-5400
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 62%

Scott School of Careers  

The practical nursing program at Scott School of Careers is designed to prepare adults with the skills to become a licensed practical nurse. Students will learn how to care for diverse individuals assisting registered nurses with ailing, recovering, mentally, and physically afflicted individuals. They will learn how to take vital signs, apply sterile dressings, provide health education, and assist with examinations and treatments. The curriculum covers 1080 contact hours of theory and practical instruction. Couse topics include mental health, medical surgical nursing, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, maternal child nursing, transition to practice, and leadership. Students will participate in a clinical experience at a local health care facility. Graduates will receive a Practical Nursing Diploma and be eligible to sit for the NCLEX to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. The duration of the program is 58 weeks.  

Admission criteria:  

• Must have a high school diploma or GED  
• Must be a minimum 18 years of age  
• Must be able to speak, read, and write English  
• Must provide a social security number, SS card, and state ID or driver’s license  
• Must provide proof of current negative TB test – Quantiferon Gold blood test or negative chest x-ray 
• Must pass a criminal background check – no Federal offense or felony convictions  
• Must complete a physical exam by a physician or Nurse Practitioner to include up to date immunizations and lifting clearance, Drug Screen (Quest Diagnostics), COVID test 
• Must have Basic Nursing Assistant certification identifiable on the Healthcare worker registry or Certified Medical Assistant or Certified EMT in good standing 
• Must have current CPR certification (BLS) 
• Must submit official High school Diploma or Transcripts if accepted to program 
• Must have completed college level Anatomy and Physiology with a grade C or better – completed within the last 5 years  
• Must have a GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale 
• Must pass an entrance exam – HESI with a 78% or higher  
• Must submit two letters of professional recommendation  
• Submit a 500-word essay on what Nursing means to you 
• Submit a completed PN admission application and complete and sign an enrollment agreement  

 The program cost of $18,856 includes tuition, registration, application, books, and lab fee.  

• Website: https://www.ssccareers.org/  
• Address: 5120 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60644                           
• Phone: 773-270-09 
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: N/A
  

First Step to Excellence Healthcare Training Academy 

The practical nursing education at FSTE combines clinical experiences and theoretical knowledge of the nursing process, communication, and the biological and social sciences. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to become a licensed practical nurse. The duration of the program is 57 to 72 weeks based on schedule – full-time or part-time.  

Admission criteria:  

• Must be 18 years or older at the time of registration  
• Must have  current certification as a nurse assistant, medical assistant, or emergency medical technician  
• Must submit official high school transcripts, GED, or college transcripts  
• Must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale  
• Must submit three letters of reference including one supervisory work reference  
• Must have a state issued picture ID and social security card  
• Must take and pass the HESI entrance exam with a cumulative score of 80%  
• Must submit a 500-word essay (topic chosen by Coordinator) 
• Must have current CPR certification from BLS  
• Must complete a current physical exam be a licensed physician or nurse practitioner  
• Must complete a satisfactory drug screen  
• Must have current COVID vaccination  
• Must complete the required criminal background check – applicants with disqualifying felony convictions should receive a waiver from IDPH 
• Submit a completed application to the practical nursing program  

The program cost of $24,070 includes tuition, books, fees, uniform, background screen, drug screen, CPR, NCLEX exam, and supplies.  

• Website: https://www.fsteacademy.education/  
• Address: 1639 E 87th St. Chicago, IL 60617 
• Phone: 773-437-5003  
• NCLEX-PN Pass Rate:  N/A

How Long is an LPN Program in Chicago?  

The duration of the practical nursing program depends on the schedule. There are full-time and part-time practical nursing programs in Chicago. A full-time program typically lasts 12 months. Part-time programs that meet on the evenings cover a period of 18 to 24 months.  

Can International Students Study LPN in Illinois?  

Yes! International students may obtain admission to a practical nursing program in Illinois. There are several practical nursing programs in Chicago that admit international students. You will need to have your transcripts evaluated by a recognized agency. You may also need to submit ACT/SAT scores and TOEFL scores if English is not your first language. Finally, you’ll need to complete the appropriate VISA requirements for admission and participation in the clinical portion of the program. Internationally students who are not residents or U.S. citizens may need to complete the requirements for an F1 visa.  

How do I get an LPN License in Illinois?  

You may apply for an LPN license in Illinois through endorsement or examination. Use the endorsement route if you already hold a practical nursing license in another state. The examination route is applicable if you have never taken the NCLEX for Practical Nurses. Apply to take the exam after completing an accredited practical nursing program approved by the IDFPR – proof of education required. You will also need to complete the required background check (proof of fingerprinting required) for healthcare workers and a drug screen. Submit your application to IDFPR with all the required documentation to obtain a license after passing the licensure exam.  

Check out the Illinois LPN Requirements for full details on obtaining your LPN license in Illinois.  

Can I Study LPN Online in Illinois?  

Educational requirements outlined by Federal and state agencies negate fully online learning for practical nursing prelicensure students. However, there are options available to complete your studies partially online. Some of the theoretical coursework may be delivered for convenience. The simulation lab experiences and the clinical practicum must be completed in person.  

How Much Does It Cost to Attend an LPN Program?  

There are several practical nursing programs in Chicago – each with a different budget. There are lower cost programs available at community colleges. Private, for-profit institutes also offer comprehensive programs that cost several times more than those available at community colleges. The average cost of a practical nursing program at a public school is $8,650. The cost of tuition and expenses at private colleges ranges from $16,700 to $36,900.  

How Much Is The LPN License in Illinois?  

The license fee is $98 for candidates applying for first-time licensure after completing the licensure exam.  

How Much Does a Practical Nurse Earn in Chicago?  

LPNs in Chicago are some of the highest paid across the state. They earn an average of $54,080 annually. Experienced LPNs and private duty LPNs may earn up to $57,400.