Attending a practical nursing program located in Chicago, IL to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is an excellent opportunity to enhance one’s career prospects and gain a valuable skillset.
The city of Chicago offers access to world-class healthcare systems and facilities, providing students with a variety of educational experiences from some of the very best medical professionals and faculty. With such knowledge and experience, prospective LPNs would be able to offer excellent care for their patients, as well as understand the latest trends and techniques in nursing practice.
A practical nursing program located in Chicago also offers a wide range of coursework which covers various aspects of practical nursing such as patient care, health assessment, pharmacology, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, infection control and much more. Through these courses, students can gain the essential knowledge they need to become a successful LPN while gaining practical experience through hands-on learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
Featured LPN Programs
Explore our curated collection of leading LPN programs in the Chicago area, meticulously researched to provide excellent options for LPN licensure. Continuously updated, this list ensures you have access to the most reliable choices within the Chicago region. Begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in practical nursing by investigating further details through the provided links for each school.
| Program | 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | Cost | Program Duration | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verve College | 88% | $23,995 | 14 – 15 months, 1,080 hours | 216 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60606 2625 Butterfield Rd. Suite 102E, Oak Brook, IL 60523 | Website |
| Malcolm X College | 92% | Undisclosed | 3 semesters, 49 credit hours | 1900 W. Jackson Room 3100, Chicago, IL 60612 | Website |
| Adonis College of Nursing | 38% | Depends on factors | 48 – 60 weeks | 1313 East Sibley Blvd., Dolton, Illinois 60419 | Website |
| ATS Institute of Technology | 65% | Undisclosed | 3 semesters | 25 E Washington St Ste 200, Chicago, IL 60602 | Website |
| Great Paradon Healthcare | 76% | $16,500 | Undisclosed | 2640 W Touhy Ave., Suite 206, Chicago, IL 60645-3147 | Website |
| Ambria College of Nursing | 100% | $19,500 | 12 – 16 months | 5210 Trillium Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 | Website |
Verve College
Verve College’s Practical Nurse (PN) program is a 12-14 month certificate/diploma program offered at the campuses in Chicago and Oak Brook. The course uses a blended learning approach that includes classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, externships in clinical settings such as hospitals and nursing homes, and online practice and exam preparation.
To successfully complete the PN courses, students must earn a minimum grade of “B” or higher. After completing the PN program with 84% or higher, they must also pass the ATI Exit Exam with 94% or higher, predicting passing NCLEX on the first attempt. Upon successful completion of these requirements, students will receive their diploma in Practical Nursing and be eligible to take the NCLEX-PN State Licensure Exam to become licensed practical nurses.
Requirements
To enroll in the Verve College PN program, applicants must meet the following prerequisites for both hybrid and on-campus formats:
- Submit a completed PN Admissions Application and pay a non-refundable $75 application fee.
- Possess an active Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification.
- Hold a High School Diploma/GED or have a minimum of 8 credit hours from an accredited U.S. College or University.
- Provide college transcripts for Anatomy & Physiology with a minimum of 6-8 credit hours and a grade of “C” or better.
- Take and pass the ATI-TEAS entrance examination with a score of 45% or higher, which must be taken at Verve College. Students have a maximum of 3 attempts to pass the exam, and each attempt costs $50. The TEAS Exam cannot be taken more than one year prior to the student’s enrollment.
- Provide a valid State ID or Driver’s License.
- Complete a background check & sanctions check, as well as a 10-panel drug screening.
- Provide a physical exam signed by a healthcare provider, as well as current proof of immunizations/titers, a current TB/PPD test, personal medical insurance, and a CPR/BLS card.
- Write a 400-500-word personal essay, typed and double-spaced, on the topics of “Why I want to be a PN?” and “What I plan to do with my Nursing Career?”
- Submit 2 professional letters of recommendation, which cannot be personal letters.
- Obtain professional liability insurance from www.nso.com.
- Provide a Social Security Card.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 88% |
| Cost | $23,995 ($150 non-refundable registration fee) |
| Program Duration | 14 – 15 months, 1,080 total hours |
| Website | https://vervecollege.edu/programs/pn-program/ |
| Locations | 216 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60606 2625 Butterfield Rd. Suite 102E, Oak Brook, IL 60523 |
| Phone | 312-920-8822 |
| Fax | 312-658-0775 |
| [email protected] |
City Colleges of Chicago School of Nursing at Malcolm X College
The City Colleges of Chicago School of Nursing at Malcolm X College offers a Practical Nursing program for students interested in pursuing a career in nursing.
Students wishing to apply for admission may do so while completing their last semester of pre-requisite courses, but limited availability means that acceptance is competitive. To better understand expectations for this program, students should consult the “Nursing Student Handbook” available on the City Colleges website.
Requirements:
- Submit high school diploma or GED transcripts to the Office of the Registrar at Malcolm X College.
- Submit official college transcripts to the Office of the Registrar at Malcolm X College.
- Proof of eligibility for college level mathematics by coursework or placement test.
- Minimum Cumulative Score of 60% in the ATI TEAS Exam.
- Minimum Reading Score of 70% in the ATI TEAS Exam.
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- Background Check.
- Health history and vaccination status documentation.
- Annual tuberculosis screening.
- Initial and random drug screening.
- Fingerprinting prior to licensing with the state of Illinois.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 92% |
| Cost | Undisclosed |
| Program Duration | 3 semesters: 49 total credit hours |
| Website | https://www.ccc.edu/colleges/malcolm-x/departments/Pages/Nursing-Department.aspx |
| Location | 1900 W. Jackson Room 3100, Chicago, IL 60612 |
| Phone | 312-850-3543 |
| Fax | (312) 850-7349 |
| [email protected] |
Adonis College of Nursing
Located in South Chicago in the city of Dolton, the Practical Nursing Program at Adonis College of Nursing offers a education in healthcare, giving students the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a successful career as a LPN.
The program is an accelerated one that requires full-time dedication. Tuition and fees may vary depending on credits transferred and the results of proficiency exams. Pre-entrance exam (HESI) is non-refundable and includes English, Math, Biology, Anatomy, Physiology, and Personality style.
Classes are offered year round with different schedules available for Day, Evening or Weekend sessions.
Requirements
- High school graduation or GED completion
- Passing the HESI Admission Assessment Exam with a 78% or higher
- 400 word essay on nursing and emerging technology
- Criminal background check
- CPR certification
- Physical test & TB (skin) test (2 step)
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 38% |
| Cost | Depending on the credits you are transferring and how well you score in proficiency exams |
| Program Duration | 48 – 60 weeks |
| Website | http://www.acon.edu/healthcare-training-in-dolton-illinois |
| Location | 1313 East Sibley Blvd., Dolton, Illinois 60419 |
| Phone | 1-888-308-3892 |
| Fax | 708-880-1871 |
| [email protected] |
ATS Institute of Technology
The Practical Nursing program at ATS Institute of Technology is a three-semester program that provides students with a comprehensive education in nursing theory and practice. Through on-campus coursework, lab simulations and clinical rotations, students learn the basics of health promotion, preventive care, pharmacology, disease processes and specialty nursing. Students get to explore various departments such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, maternity, pediatrics, behavioral health and medical-surgical nursing in order to gain hands-on experience in different areas of patient care.
Admissions take place three times a year with classes being available at various times throughout the week. Those interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to reach out to the admissions office for further information.
Requirements
- Take the Entrance Exam and ATI TEAS Exam
- Students who meet the required benchmark score on the entrance exam may move directly into nursing classes.
- Students who are placed in developmental classes must pass the TEAS exam in order to progress to nursing classes.
- Submit Required Documents
- Submit attestation of high school graduation or its equivalency (High school Diploma or GED Alternatives).
- Order official college transcripts if you plan to transfer college credits, or submit the same in person, in an envelope sealed by the school officials.
- Schedule a background check through authorized provider.
- Complete Financial Aid requirements.
- Review Legal Requirements
- Review the Legal Requirements for Licensure in Illinois.
- Attend Orientation and Complete Required Documentation
- Attend the mandatory scheduled orientation session.
- Sign an enrollment agreement.
- Review and sign all required documents.
- Complete documentation for clinical experience based on your plan of study.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 65% |
| Cost | Undisclosed |
| Program Duration | 3 semesters |
| Website | http://atsinstitute.edu/wp_chicago/?page_id=14 |
| Location | 25 E Washington St Ste 200, Chicago, IL 60602 |
| Phone | 312-300-0980 |
| Fax | 312-277-2500 |
| [email protected] |
Great Paradon Healthcare
Great Paragon Healthcare Inc. offers a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program, approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). This program focuses on providing students with the didactic principles and clinical practice skills necessary to provide nursing care to clients throughout their lifetime, under the direction of a professional nurse or doctor.
During the course, students will learn about fundamentals of nursing, care for adults, obstetrical nursing, pediatric nursing, and mental health nursing. Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). With this licensure in Illinois, practical nurses are able to work in multiple settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, mental health centers, outpatient care facilities, physician offices and many other places.
Requirements
- Submit official Transcripts of Record or GED to admission coordinator.
- English: Completion of Composition or higher course (ENG 101) with a grade of “C” or better within the last 10 years.
- Mathematics: Completion of Elementary Algebra or higher course (MTH 110) with a grade of “C” or better within the last 5 years.
- Medical Terminology: Completion of a course with a grade of “C” or better within the last 5 years.
- Pharmacology: Completion of a course with a grade of “C” or better within the last 12 months from an accredited institution.
- Completion of Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program (CNA) and certification listed in IDPH Registry.
- Must have a Social Security Card and State ID/Driver’s License.
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 76% |
| Cost | $16,500 ($150 Registration Fee) |
| Program Duration | Undisclosed |
| Website | http://www.greatparagonhealthcare.com/home-health-careprograms-offered |
| Location | 2640 W Touhy Ave., Suite 206, Chicago, IL 60645-3147 |
| Phone | 773-274-7694 |
| Fax | 773-274-9082 |
| [email protected] |
Ambria College of Nursing
Ambria College of Nursing provides a top-tier practical nursing program for students who wish to become license practical nurses. The program offers options for full-time and part-time students, with day and evening classes. Clinical rotations are typically held during the day shift (7 a.m.-3 p.m.), but some evening shifts (3 p.m.-11 p.m.) may be available upon approval from clinical facilities. The length of the program depends on the student’s choice, with time frames ranging from 12 months to 16 months depending on transfer credits and results of proficiency exams. Tuition and fees vary according to student circumstances as well.
With a 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2022, Ambria is an excellent school for aspiring practical nurses who want to enter the field in as little as 12 months’ time.
Requirements
- Obtain a score of 50% or higher on the Entrance Exam (TEAS)
- Take the Reading Exam or its equivalent
- Take the Math Exam or its equivalent
- Pass a Background Check and Drug Test
- Complete the prerequisites or their equivalent
- Submit the necessary documents
- Apply for Federal Financial Aid
- Provide proof of High School Diploma or its equivalent
- Complete the Nursing Program Admission Application
- Sign the Enrollment Agreement
- Attend the Clinical Compliance Workshop
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022 NCLEX-PN Pass Rate | 100% |
| Cost | $19,500 (One-time fee: $489, Student Services Fee: $600, Standardized Exam Fee: $115) |
| Program Duration | 12 – 16 months |
| Schedule | Day and evening schedules – full and part time options |
| Website | https://www.ambria.edu/Nursing_Programs/LPN_Program_Summary/tabid/995/Default.aspx |
| Location | 5210 Trillium Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 |
| Phone | 847-397-0300 |
| [email protected] |
LPN Salaries in Chicago
Let’s take a stroll through the Windy City and explore LPN salaries in Chicago, Illinois! We’ll refer to the data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to see how LPN salaries stack up in Chicago compared to the national and state averages.
According to the table, the bustling city of Chicago is home to approximately 10,880 LPNs. That’s quite a bustling community of compassionate healthcare professionals! Now, let’s talk numbers. LPNs in Chicago earn an average hourly wage of $30.01, which translates to an annual salary of $62,410. Not too shabby at all!
But how does this compare to the national and state averages? Let’s take a closer look. Across the entire United States, there are about 135,500 LPNs, and on average, they earn an hourly wage of $19.51, amounting to an annual salary of $40,580. Now, let’s shift our focus to the great state of Illinois. In the entire state, there are approximately 17,530 LPNs, and their average hourly wage is $28.29, with an annual salary of $58,840.
When we compare LPN salaries in Chicago to the national average, it’s clear that LPNs in the city are earning significantly higher wages. They enjoy an hourly wage that’s around $10.50 higher and an annual salary that’s approximately $21,830 higher. That’s quite the elevation!
Now, let’s talk about how LPN salaries in Chicago fare against the state average in Illinois. LPNs in the city enjoy slightly higher hourly wages, around $1.72 more, and their annual salary is approximately $3,570 higher than the state average. It’s important to note that regional factors, cost of living, and demand for healthcare professionals can influence these slight variances in salaries.
So, LPNs in Chicago can celebrate their above-average salaries. They’re earning higher wages than the national average and even outperforming the state average in Illinois. It’s a testament to the demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the city and the value placed on their contributions.
| # of LPNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| Illinois | 17,530 | $ 28.29 | $ 58,840 |
| Chicago | 10,880 | $ 30.01 | $ 62,410 |
Influences on LPN Salaries in Chicago
LPNs in Chicago may earn higher salaries due to several factors:
- Cost of Living: Chicago is known for its relatively higher cost of living compared to other areas. As the cost of housing, transportation, and other expenses in the city is generally higher, employers may offer higher salaries to LPNs to ensure they can meet their financial needs and maintain a reasonable standard of living in the city.
- Demand and Competition: The demand for healthcare services in a major city like Chicago is typically higher than in rural or less populated areas. With a larger population and a greater concentration of healthcare facilities, there is increased competition for skilled healthcare professionals, including LPNs. Employers may offer higher salaries to attract and retain qualified LPNs in a competitive job market.
- Market Forces and Local Economy: The overall market forces and local economic conditions in Chicago can influence LPN salaries. Factors such as economic growth, healthcare industry trends, and the presence of major healthcare systems or institutions can impact salary levels. In a thriving economy and a robust healthcare market like Chicago, there may be more resources available to offer higher salaries to LPNs.
- Education and Skill Levels: LPNs with advanced education, specialized training, or additional certifications may command higher salaries. Chicago has a strong healthcare education system and renowned medical institutions. LPNs who have pursued further education or obtained specialized certifications may have an advantage in the job market and can negotiate higher salaries based on their advanced skills and qualifications.
- Unionization: Union representation can play a role in negotiating higher salaries for LPNs in Chicago. Unionized LPNs may benefit from collective bargaining agreements that establish minimum wage standards, salary scales, and negotiated benefits. Union representation can provide LPNs with increased bargaining power, leading to higher salaries and better working conditions.
It’s important to note that LPN salaries can also vary based on factors such as experience, healthcare setting (hospitals, clinics, nursing homes), and shift differentials (evening, night, or weekend shifts). These factors, combined with the unique characteristics of the Chicago job market, contribute to LPNs in the city earning higher salaries compared to other areas.