This guide outlines nursing pathways in Illinois: LPN programs (12-18 months), RN options via ADN or BSN, and advanced NP degrees. It covers licensing (NCLEX-PN/NCLEX-RN), accreditation (ACEN/CCNE), clinical requirements, work settings, and steps to apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics for current salary and job-growth data.

Why consider nursing in Illinois

Nursing remains a high-demand, rewarding field with many entry points. You can help people, work in diverse settings, and build a stable career with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Which nursing path is right for you?

Decide whether you want to be a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), a Registered Nurse (RN), or pursue advanced practice as a Nurse Practitioner (NP). LPN programs usually run about 12-18 months and are available at community or technical colleges. RNs can train through a 2-3 year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Many employers increasingly prefer or require a BSN for clinical and leadership roles.

NPs and other advanced practice nurses need a master's degree (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) plus clinical experience and RN licensure.

Licensing and exams

After your program, you must pass the national licensing exam: NCLEX-PN for LPNs and NCLEX-RN for RNs. Apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and meet state requirements such as background checks, immunizations, and continuing education.

Choosing an accredited program

Pick programs accredited by recognized agencies (ACEN or CCNE for RN programs). Accreditation matters for licensing, financial aid, and transferability of credits. Use centralized application services (like NursingCAS for many BSN programs) and confirm clinical placement support.

What to expect during training

Programs combine classroom instruction, simulation, and supervised clinical hours in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Expect health screenings, a criminal background check, and drug testing as part of enrollment and clinical placement requirements.

Job options and work settings

Nurses work in hospitals, physician offices, schools, public health, long-term care, home health, telehealth, and as travel nurses. If you want regular daytime hours, consider clinics or school nursing. Emergency departments, critical care, and hospital units typically require shift work.

Pay and outlook

Nursing compensation varies by role, experience, and setting. Median wages and employment projections change over time; check the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the latest RN salary and job growth figures .

Practical next steps in Illinois

  1. Decide the role you want (LPN vs RN vs NP).
  1. Research accredited programs and admission requirements.
  1. Complete the program and pass the appropriate NCLEX exam.
  1. Apply for Illinois licensure through IDFPR.
  1. Network with local hospitals, use job boards, and consider clinical rotations as your first employer connection.
Nursing offers flexible pathways and many employer options. With the right accredited training and licensure, Illinois residents can build a meaningful, stable healthcare career.
  1. Verify current median RN salary and median LPN salary from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (most recent year).
  2. Verify projected employment growth rate for registered nurses from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (10-year projection).

FAQs about Nursing Programs Illinois

Do I have to get a four-year degree to become an RN in Illinois?
No. You can become an RN with an ADN (2-3 years) or a BSN (4 years). However, many employers increasingly prefer or require a BSN for hiring and advancement.
What exams do I need to become licensed?
LPNs take the NCLEX-PN and RNs take the NCLEX-RN. After passing, apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
How do I choose an accredited nursing program?
Look for programs accredited by ACEN or CCNE (for RN/BSN programs). Accreditation affects licensure eligibility, financial aid, and credit transfer.
What settings can nurses work in?
Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, schools, public health, long-term care, home health, telehealth, and as travel nurses. Shift scheduling varies by setting.
Where can I find up-to-date salary and job outlook information?
Check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for current median wages and employment projections for RNs and LPNs, as these figures change over time .

News about Nursing Programs Illinois

How to Choose the Right Accelerated Nursing Program in Illinois - The Daily Illini [Visit Site | Read More]

Nursing alum, textbook author makes gift to renovate auditorium - UIC today [Visit Site | Read More]

Here's how SIUE will use its new building to addressing Illinois' nursing shortage - The Edwardsville Intelligencer [Visit Site | Read More]

Illinois breaks ground on new Allied Health & Nursing Center at South Suburban College - McKnight's Senior Living [Visit Site | Read More]

Bradley University’s online nursing program rated as the best in Illinois - CIProud.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Loyola Nursing grad is new Miss Illinois USA - Loyola University Chicago [Visit Site | Read More]

Then and Now: Nursing education - Illinois State University News [Visit Site | Read More]

Bradley University’s online nursing program rated as the best in Illinois - Yahoo [Visit Site | Read More]