nurse-groups-head-shots-05

RN Programs in Illinois

Unlock Your Nursing Potential in the Land of Lincoln!

Hey there, future healthcare superstars! Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of nursing in Illinois? Whether you’re dreaming of earning your RN diploma or degree, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to getting started on your rewarding career path.

Why Illinois is the Place to Be for Aspiring RNs

Picture this: a vibrant healthcare system, diverse culture, and endless opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives. That’s what you’ll find in Illinois! According to the official state website, the Land of Lincoln boasts a strong healthcare system with plenty of job opportunities for Registered Nurses like you.

But it gets even better! RNs in Illinois earn an average salary of around $77,000 per year, and the job growth is projected to skyrocket by 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more juicy details on the job outlook, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics RN page.

Gearing Up for Your RN Adventure

Before you can embark on your nursing journey, there are a few prerequisites you’ll need to tackle:

  • Education: Gotta have that high school diploma or GED!
  • Age: You’ll need to be at least 18 years young to join the party.
  • Entrance Exams: Some programs may require tests like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) to make sure you’re ready to rock.
  • Background Checks: Get ready to prove you’re a squeaky-clean candidate with a criminal background check.
  • Medical Status: Show off your immunizations and pass a physical exam to ensure you’re in tip-top shape.

What to Expect: A Sneak Peek into RN Program Curriculum

RN programs in Illinois are like a delicious blend of classroom learning and hands-on clinical training. Here’s what you can look forward to:

  • Duration: Diploma programs typically take 1-2 years, while associate degrees take about 2 years to complete.
  • Courses: Get ready to dive into subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Nursing Fundamentals, and Pharmacology.
  • Clinical Training: Roll up your sleeves and gain hands-on experience in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
  • Specializations: Some programs even offer specializations in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care.

Top-Notch RN Programs in Illinois

Ready to find your perfect match? Check out these top schools offering RN programs in Illinois:

  1. City Colleges of Chicago – Malcolm X College
    • 1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612
    • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
    • Description: Malcolm X College offers a comprehensive ADN program with state-of-the-art facilities and strong clinical partnerships.
    • Cost: Approximately $11,520 for in-district students
  2. Illinois Central College
    • 1 College Drive, East Peoria, IL 61635
    • Program: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
    • Description: This program provides a robust nursing education with extensive clinical practice and faculty support.
    • Cost: Around $14,000 for the entire program
  3. College of DuPage
    • 425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
    • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
    • Description: Known for its excellent accreditation and high NCLEX pass rates, College of DuPage offers a strong ADN program.
    • Cost: Estimated $12,000 for residents

Where to Work: Top Healthcare Facilities in Illinois

Once you’ve earned your RN credentials, it’s time to explore the incredible employment opportunities in Illinois:

  1. Northwestern Medicine
    • Description: Renowned for its research and patient care, Northwestern Medicine operates several hospitals across Illinois.
    • Locations: Chicago, DeKalb, Geneva, and more
    • Specialties: Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology
  2. Advocate Health Care
    • Description: Advocate Health Care is one of the largest healthcare systems in Illinois, known for its comprehensive services and quality care.
    • Locations: Chicago, Downers Grove, Oak Lawn, and more
    • Specialties: Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, Behavioral Health
  3. Rush University Medical Center
    • Description: A top-ranked academic medical center providing cutting-edge treatments and research.
    • Location: Chicago
    • Specialties: Orthopedics, Transplantation, Neurological Care

Becoming an Official RN: Licensure Requirements

To practice as an RN in Illinois, you’ll need to meet these licensure requirements:

  • Education: Graduate from an accredited nursing program
  • Examination: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam with flying colors
  • Application: Submit an application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
  • Fees: Pay the applicable licensure fees
  • Continuing Education: Stay sharp by completing continuing education requirements for license renewal

Paying for Your RN Education: Don’t Sweat It!

The cost of RN programs in Illinois can vary, but don’t let that hold you back! Here’s what you need to know:

  • Range: Associate degree programs typically cost between $10,000 and $25,000
  • Financial Aid: Many schools offer financial aid options, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Check out resources like the Illinois Student Assistance Commission for information on available aid.

Taking Your RN Career on the Road: Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means RNs licensed in other NLC states can practice in Illinois without additional licensure. Here’s how it works:

Ready to Start Your RN Adventure in Illinois?

What are you waiting for, future nursing rockstar? Illinois is calling your name! With a variety of educational paths, a thriving healthcare system, and endless opportunities to make a difference, the Land of Lincoln is the perfect place to launch your nursing career.

Take the first step today by contacting a local school and embarking on a journey that will change your life and the lives of countless others. The world of healthcare needs compassionate, dedicated RNs like you. Let’s do this!

RN Schools Near You & Online in Illinois

photo_of_happy_nurses_in_scrubs

Aurora University

  • 347 S. Gladstone Ave. Aurora, IL 60506
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (630) 892-6431

Southwestern Illinois College

  • 2500 Carlyle Ave. Belleville, IL 62221
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (618) 235-2700

Illinois Wesleyan University

  • 1312 Park Street Bloomington, IL 61701
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (309) 556-1000

Olivet Nazarene University

  • One University Avenue Bourbonnais, IL 60914
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (815) 939-5011

Spoon River College

  • 23235 N. County Highway 22 Canton, IL 61520
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (309) 647-4645

Graham Hospital

  • 210 W. Walnut St. Canton, IL 61520
    Programs: RN
    (309) 647-4086

John A Logan College

  • 700 Logan College Road Carterville, IL 62918
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (618) 985-3741

Kaskaskia College

  • 27210 College Road Centralia, IL 62801
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (618) 545-3000

Parkland College

  • 2400 West Bradley Avenue Champaign, IL 61821
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (217) 351-2200

City Colleges of Chicago- Richard J Daley College

  • 7500 South Pulaski Rd. Chicago, IL 60652
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (773) 838-7500

Loyola University

  • 1032 W. Sheridan Rd. Chicago, IL 60660
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (773) 274-3000

Chicago State University

  • 9501 South King Drive Chicago, IL 60628
    Programs: BSN, Health Information Management-Bachelor's, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (773) 995-2000

City Colleges of Chicago- Olive Harvey College

  • 10001 South Woodlawn Ave. Chicago, IL 60628
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (733) 265-5343

City Colleges of Chicago – Kennedy – King College

  • 6301 South Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60621
    Programs: ADN, LPN, RN
    (773) 602-5000

City Colleges of Chicago – Malcolm X College

  • 1900 W. Van Buren Chicago, IL 60612
    Programs: ADN, Radiography, RN
    (312) 850-7000

Robert Morris College

  • 401 S. State Street Chicago, IL 60605
    Programs: ADN, RN
    1(800)762-5960

Rush University

  • 1653 W. Congress Parkway Chicago, IL 60612
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, Accelerated MSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, MSN, Nursing PhD, Physician Assistant, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (312) 942-5000

Saint Xavier University

  • 3700 West 103rd Street Chicago, IL 60655
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, LPN to BSN, Nursing Administration, Psychiatric Nursing, Public Health Nursing, RN, RN to BSN
    (773) 298-3000

University of Illinois at Chicago

  • 601 South Morgan Street Chicago, IL 60607
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, BSN to DNP, DNP, Health Information Management-Bachelor's, MSN, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN
    (312) 996-7000

City Colleges of Chicago – Truman College

  • 1145 W. Wilson Ave. Chicago, IL 60640
    Programs: ADN, RN
    (773) 907-4000

Depaul University

  • 1 E. Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing Administration, Pediatric Nursing, RN, RN to BSN
    (312) 362-8000

Prairie State College

  • 202 South Halsted Street Chicago Heights, IL 60411
    Programs: ADN, CNA, RN
    (708) 709-3500

Morton College

  • 3801 S. Central Ave Cicero, IL 60804
    Programs: ADN, LPN, RN
    (708) 656-8000

Lakeview College of Nursing

  • 903 N. Logan Ave. Danville, IL 61832
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (217) 709-0920

Danville Area Community College

  • 2000 East Main Street Danville, IL 61832
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (217) 443-3222

Millikin University

  • 1184 West Main Street Decatur, IL 62522
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, RN, RN to BSN
    (217) 424-6211

Richland Community College

  • One College Park Decatur, IL 62521
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (217) 875-7200

Northern Illinois University

  • 231 North Annie Glidden Road Dekalb, IL 60115
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (815) 753-1000

Oakton Community College

  • 1600 E Golf Rd Des Plaines, IL 60016
    Programs: ADN, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, RN
    (847) 635-1600

Sauk Valley Community College

  • 173 IL Rt. 2 Dixon, IL 61021
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (815) 288-5511

Illinois Central College

  • 1 College Drive East Peoria, IL 61635
    Programs: ADN, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (309) 694-5422

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

  • SIUE Edwardsville, IL 62026
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, MSN, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing Administration, Physician Assistant, Psych Nursing - Certificate, Psychiatric Nursing, Public Health Nursing, RN, RN to BSN
    1(888)328-5168

Elgin Community College

  • 1700 Spartan Drive Elgin, IL 60123
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (847) 697-1000

Elmhurst College

  • 190 Prospect Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (630) 617-3500

Highland Community College

  • 2998 West Pearl City Road Freeport, IL 61032
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (815) 235-6121

Carl Sandburg College

  • 2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd. Galesburg, IL 61401
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (309) 344-2518

College of Dupage

  • 425 Fawell Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Medical Assistant, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, RN
    (630) 942-2800

Lewis & Clark Community College

  • 5800 Godfrey Road Godfrey, IL 62035
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (618) 468-7000

College of Lake County

  • 19351 West Washington Street Grayslake, IL 60030
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (847) 543-2000

Southeastern Illinois College

  • 3575 College Road Harrisburg, IL 62946
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (618) 252-5400

Rend Lake College

  • 468 N. Ken Gray Parkway Ina, IL 62846
    Programs: ADN, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (618) 437-5321

Macmurray College

  • 447 East College Avenue Jacksonville, IL 62650
    Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    1(800)252-7485

Joliet Junior College

  • 1215 Houbolt Road Joliet, IL 60431
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (815) 729-9020

University of St. Francis

  • 500 Wilcox Street Joliet, IL 60435
    Programs: BSN, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (815) 740-3400

Kankakee Community College

  • 100 College Drive Kankakee, IL 60901
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (815) 802-8100

McKendree College

  • 701 College Road Lebanon, IL 62254
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (618) 537-4481

Kishwaukee College

  • 21193 Malta Road Malta, IL 60150
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (815) 825-2086

Lake Land College

  • 5001 Lake Land Blvd. Mattoon, IL 61938
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (217) 234-5253

Black Hawk College

  • 6600 34th Ave. Moline, IL 61265
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (309) 796-5000

Heartland Community College

  • 1500 West Raab Road Normal, IL 61761
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (309) 268-8000

Illinois State University

  • Campus Box 5810 Normal, IL 61790
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, Health Information Management-Bachelor's, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to BSN
    (309) 438-7400

Illinois Valley Community College

  • 815 North Orlando Smith Avenue Oglesby, IL 61348
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (815) 224-2720

Illinois Eastern Community College

  • 233 East Chestnut Street Olney, IL 62450
    Programs: ADN, LPN, RN
    (618) 393-2982

Harper College

  • 1200 W. Algonquin Road Palatine, IL 60067
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (847) 925-6707

Trinity Christian College

  • 6601 W. College Drive Palos Heights, IL 60463
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    1(866)874-6463

Morraine Valley Community College

  • 9000 West College Parkway Palos Hills, IL 60465
    Programs: ADN, CNA, Health Information Management-Associate, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (708) 974-4300

Methodist Medical Center College of Nursing

  • 415 St. Mark Ct. Peoria, IL 61603
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (309) 672-5513

Bradley University

  • 830 North Elmwood Avenue Peoria, IL 61606
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, LPN to BSN, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing Administration, RN, RN to BSN
    (309) 677-2320

OSF Saint Francis Medical Center

  • 511 NE Greenleaf Street Peoria, IL 61603
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, Radiography, RN, RN to BSN
    (309) 655-2201

John Wood Community College

  • 1301 S. 48th Street Quincy, IL 62305
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (217) 224-6500

Blessing-Rieman College

  • 11th & Oak Quincy, IL 62301
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, LPN to BSN, MSN, Radiography, RN, RN to BSN
    (217) 228-5520

Concordia University

  • 7400 Augusta St River Forest, IL 60305
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Pre-Nursing Studies, RN, RN to BSN
    (708) 771-8300

Triton College

  • 2000 Fifth Ave. River Grove, IL 60171
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Nuclear Medicine Tech, Radiography, RN
    (708) 456-0300

Trinity College

  • 2122 25th Avenue Rock Island, IL 61201
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, ADN, BSN, Radiography, RN, RN to BSN
    (309) 779-7700

Rockford College Department of Nursing

  • 5050 E. State St. Rockford, IL 61108
    Programs: BSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (815) 226-4000

Rock Valley College

  • 3301 N Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61114
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    (815) 921-7821

Saint Anthony College of Nursing

  • 5658 E. State Street Rockford, IL 61108
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (815) 395-5091

Lewis University

  • One University Parkway Romeoville, IL 60446
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Nursing Administration, RN, RN to BSN
    (815) 838-0500

South Suburban College

  • 15800 South State Street South Holland, IL 60473
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Medical Assistant, Radiography, RN
    (708) 596-2000

St John’s College of Nursing

  • 729 East Carpenter St. Springfield, IL 62702
    Programs: BSN, RN
    (217) 525-5628

Lincoln Land Community College

  • 5250 Shepherd Road Springfield, IL 62794
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, Radiography, RN
    (217) 786-2200

Waubonsee Community College

  • Route 47 at Waubonsee Drive Sugar Grove, IL 60554
    Programs: ADN, Medical Assistant, RN
    (630) 466-7900

Shawnee Community College

  • 8364 Shawnee College Rd. Ullin, IL 62992
    Programs: ADN, CNA, LPN, RN
    1(800)481-2242