Illinois Nursing Schools And Programs
Illinois is home to several quality nursing programs so read on to learn more about nursing salaries, degree requirements, and license options in the state.
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While Illinois has experienced regional nursing shortages for years, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation. The state must replace over 9,800 nurses each year to maintain current staffing levels. These projected nursing shortfalls suggest that graduates of nursing schools in Illinois can find ample employment opportunities.
Nursing programs in Illinois only graduate 7,000 registered nurses each year. Close to one-third of these nurses are expected to retire within five years. By 2025, Illinois will face an RN shortfall of over 14,000 on top of the current shortage. Illinois labor force projections also indicate that 2,700 licensed practical nurse positions could remain unfilled from 2014-2030.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , RNs in Illinois earn about 7% less than the average salary for all RNs in the U.S, but paychecks go further because the cost of living is lower than in other states. Illinois nurses also benefit from the state’s strong tradition of union membership. The Illinois Nurses Association advocates on behalf of its members and offers collective bargaining representation at over 80 public and private healthcare facilities.
Robert Morris University Illinois
At the Robert Morris University Illinois campus, students are given the opportunity to experience modern training and exceptional hands-on experience in the field of nursing. There are various benefits to enrolling in this four-year nursing program. The students are more like mentors, helping students throughout their educational track. Students will work rotations at local, leading hospitals to give them real life experience. The curriculum is quite modern and up to date as well.
As a full, four-year school, there are a variety of benefits to enrolling here including the diversity in course offerings. This school has several Masters Degree programs including an MM in Sports Administration. It offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing that prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN exam. This program also has affiliations with The Clare, Plymouth Place, and NorthShore University HealthSystems, all area medical facilities. Students will benefit from the hands-on learning, simulation labs, and the advanced career management tools available at this school.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 56%
- Program Length or Credit Hours: 4-year program
- Admission Requirements: Students must apply to the college first and complete at least one year of undergraduate general studies prior to applying to the college of nursing. GPA, TEAS scoring, and prerequisite training are necessary.
- Tuition: $8,400 per quarter
Registered Nurse Job Activities
Registered nurses are the largest occupation in the Chicago IL medical care delivery system. RNs practice in numerous different medical settings, such as hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, nursing homes and even schools. Their general function is to support doctors in the care of their patients. Having said that, the particular duties of a registered nurse will depend on their job or area of expertise along with where they work. A few of the duties of an RN may include:
- Administering medications
- Supervising LPNs, LVNs and nurse aides
- Instructing patients and their families
- Keeping health records and charts
Nurses with a more advanced degree may have more advanced job duties and accountabilities. Nurse practitioners , for example, must hold a Masters Degree and typically work more independently than their RN counterparts. They can provide primary or specialty care services in Chicago IL, prescribe medications, and diagnose and treat basic illnesses or injuries.
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How To Become An Rn In Chicago: Licensing Requirements
Becoming a registered nurse in Chicago requires you to first graduate from a state-approved and accredited ADN or BSN program and then take the NCLEX-RN exam. To take the NCLEX-RN exam, you must register with both Pearson VUE and Continental Testing Centers . After passing the exam, you can apply for licensure. When applying to the Illinois Board of Nursing, plan to supply a certificate of education, official student roster, official transcripts, and proof of fingerprinting. Check out EduMeds guide to nursing schools in Illinois for more information on licensing requirements.
Best Accelerated Nursing Programs In Illinois In 2022
If youre searching for accelerated nursing programs Illinois, its likely that you have two things in mind: creating a career path that allows you to help others and doing so quickly. When you choose an accelerated nursing program, youre on the fast track to an in-demand medical career that allows you to make a lasting difference in the lives of your patients. Whether youre already working in nursing and want to work toward an advanced degree, or youre just getting started in the field and have yet to treat a patient, earning your accelerated degree shows future employers that you know how to manage your time, work through stress, and get the job done fast.
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City Colleges Of Chicago Wilbur Wright College
City Colleges of Chicago Wilbur Wright College is also part of the City Colleges of Chicago system and thus has the same tuition rate as the Malcolm X College campus at $4,858. The City Colleges system has the most affordable college tuition for Chicago residents. The schools graduation rate is 73.4 percent, ranking it #9 for graduation rates on this list.
- Registered Nurse and Advanced Certificate Program
- Associate in Applied Science Degree Program
- Unknown NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
- 2.5 GPA Requirement
Division Of Health Sciences
Students prepare for a health-related career with a BS in health sciences, athletic training, exercise science, or physical education. Courses are offered in life and health sciences, business and management, and more.
Chicagoland Partnerships
Students benefit from North Parks partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and other organizations throughout Chicagoland and experience a wide range of patient-care scenarios as they practice their skills and discover the many career options available.
Facilities
North Park Universitys state-of-the-art nursing, health science, and STEM facilities give students access to cutting edge modern technology, instrumentation, and simulation. Facilities include a nursing simulation lab, a cadaver lab, smart classrooms, and smart labs.
Faculty
The caring and dedicated faculty of the School of Nursing & Health Sciences integrate dynamic teaching and clinical best practices into the educational experience, lead by example in the classroom and clinical practice, and infuse the curriculum with a values-centered model grounded in Christian principles.
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Chicagoland Metro Area Nursing Schools By Nclex Score
New Lake College
- Diploma in Practical Nursing: 100.0% NCLEX pass rate
- Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program
State Career College
- Certificate in Practical Nursing: 100.0% NCLEX pass rate
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
Joliet Junior College
- Certificate in Practical Nursing : 99.2% NCLEX pass rate
- Associate Degree in Nursing: 94.7% NCLEX pass rate
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
- Certificate in Practical Nursing: 98.9% NCLEX pass rate
- Associate Degree in Nursing: 93.4% NCLEX pass rate
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
Morton College
- Certificate in Practical Nursing : 97.6% NCLEX pass rate
- Associate Degree in Nursing: 80.2% NCLEX pass rate
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
- Direct Entry MSN: 97.1% NCLEX pass rate
- DNP: Nurse Anesthesia
- Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
- MSN: Clinical Nurse Leader
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Post-Baccalaureate DNP
- Associate Degree in Nursing: 96.7% NCLEX pass rate
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing: 96.3% NCLEX pass rate
- Accelerated Second Degree BSN
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Post-Master’s Certificate: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Post-Master’s Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner
- RN-to-BSN Degree Completion
- Direct Entry MSN: 96.2% NCLEX pass rate
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing: 90.2% NCLEX pass rate
- MSN: Clinical Nurse Leader
- Master of Science in Nursing
- RN-to-BSN Degree Completion
Oakton Community CollegeCollege of DuPage
- Associate Degree in Nursing: 92.6% NCLEX pass rate
- Nursing Assistant Certificate
J’Renee College
Becoming A Nurse Practitioner In Illinois
Advanced practice registered nurses , including NPs, must hold either an accredited master of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice and obtain national certification in a specialty area. APRN licensure varies by state. In Illinois, the state board of nursing handles NP licensure and approves specializations from national certification agencies.
NP Program Requirements:
- Application Requirements: BSN with 3.0 GPA current RN license
- How Long To Complete: Two years for MSN four years for DNP
- Accrediting Bodies: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Illinois Licensure Requirements:
- Education: MSN or DNP
- Exams: Varies by NP certification specialty administered through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board
- Renewal Frequency: Two years
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About Nursing Schools In Illinois
Coursework in RN and BSN programs in Illinois build upon your prior learning and nursing experience, and provide opportunities for individualized study in your area of interest. Healthcare reform, increasingly complex medical technology and computerized healthcare have raised the bar for nurses, making an advanced education in nursing a very valuable asset.
In our Illinois RN program guide, find rankings for both ADN and BSN Degree programs, tuition costs, NCLEX passing rates, and more. Research key Illinois RN Program information to help you compare program metrics and to apply to best RN program for your career in nursing.
In the State of Illinois, nurses are helping to change the face of healthcare. To ensure that they have the best education and preparation for future health care challenges, registered nurses need to graduate from a state-approved associate’s degree in nursing program or a BSN degree program.
Nurses who graduate from an RN program can obtain certification in over 100 nursing specialties, go on to earn an RN to BSN or RN to MSN degree.
BSN degree holders have options to earn an Advance Practice Register Nursing degree and become a Nurse Practitioner , or earn an advanced degree for a career in any number of nursing leadership roles such Nurse Educator or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Why Consider Online Nursing Graduate Programs
For current nurses and busy professionals, online nursing graduate programs in Chicago could provide the opportunity to earn advanced credentials while continuing to work. Advanced practice registered nurses , including nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and nurse anesthetists, require graduate education to practice. Graduate-level online nursing programs could help nurses prepare to enter or progress in these fields, as well as take on managerial roles, go into academia, conduct research, or work in inter-professional teams.
There is no uniform structure for online nursing graduate programs, but in many cases the instructive courses might be completed online, with any practicum components completed in person at an approved site.
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List Of Accredited Nursing Schools In Chicago Illinois
The bustling city of Chicago has plenty of employment and education opportunities in the nursing field. There are more than 25 schools offering a wide variety of programs for nurses at all levels. Deciding which type of nursing program you want to pursue is one of the most important considerations. Below you can read brief descriptions about the main types of nurses and the opportunities available for each in Chicago.Certified nursing assistant If you are a naturally caring and social person, a career as a certified nursing assistant could be for you. CNAs provide basic frontline healthcare that aids patients with daily necessities like bathing and eating. CNA programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and they can be completed in a matter of weeks. There are approximately 50,000 nursing assistants in Chicago, and the demand for qualified CNAs is projected to grow in the years ahead. Some of the main employers of CNAs in Chicago include Tenet Health, Sinai Health System, and Northwest Community Hospital.
Licensed practical nurse Registered nurse
Adn Programs Chicago Il
Nurses must be caring and compassionate, capable of upholding the high ethical standards of the profession, and demonstrate excellent critical thinking skills. They must have good communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds and ages who may be vulnerable due to pain and uncertainty.
The Associate Degree in Nursing provides a fast route to entry into nursing. The pre-licensure program is not as comprehensive as the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, but it is rigorous and challenging. Students will acquire a foundational preparation in nursing theory and develop technical skills, clinical judgment, and critical thinking to provide safe and quality care and improve patient outcomes. The core requirements can be completed in just two years students will need to complete the 8 to 12 semester credits of prerequisite courses beforehand. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates may apply for the Nursing Council Licensure Exam to become a Registered Nurse. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has the final say on candidates who are eligible to sit for the exam.
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Crna Programs In Illinois
If you are a Registered Nurse thinking about continuing education and graduate degrees, you may want to consider the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist career. A Bachelor of Science and experience in critical care are the first steps to becoming a CRNA.
CRNA Certification in Illinois
CRNAs in Illinois must have a current state license as an RN. They must also complete an accredited CRNA program and pass the certification examination upon graduation.
Illinois CRNA Registry
Springfield, IL 62786
CRNA Jobs and Salary in Illinois
CRNAs are employed in doctors and dentists offices, as well as in hospitals such as the following:
Childrens Memorial Hospital, Chicago
Memorial Medical Center, Springfield
St. Johns Hospital, Springfield
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2020 data, the annual mean wage of nurse anesthetists in Illinois is $ 194,950.*
CRNA Programs in Illinois
Most programs require current licensure in Illinois and a BSN. When the CRNA program is complete, candidates will have a Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia degree.
2300 North Edward Street
This 31 month program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing or Nurse Administered Anesthesia Major. Prerequisites are a BSN, GPA of 3.0, and GRE scores if GPA is below 3.0.
Evanston Northwestern Hospital
2650 Ridge Avenue, Rm. G603
Evanston, IL 60201
This CRNA program takes 36 months to complete. A BSN is preferred, and a GPA of 3.0 and GRE of 1000 are required.
and Science Nurse Anesthetist Program
Chamberlain College Of Nursing
Chamberlain College of Nursing falls at the mid-point when comparing tuition rates and graduation rates to similar nursing schools in the Chicago area. Theyre ranked #25 in tuition price and #21 for graduation rate on this list. Their in-state tuition for students will cost around $18,360 per year and the schools graduation rate rests at 57.3 percent.
- Undergraduate and graduate degree offerings
- 81% NCLEX-RN pass rates
- 3-year BS degree program available
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Entry Level Adn Bsn & Msn Programs In Chicago Il
In the Chicago area, there are a number of entry-level training programs for students who want to become registered nurses. These programs all prepare students to take the NCLEX RN licensing exam for their first jobs as RNs. Program options include LPN to RN bridge programs that help licensed practical nurses become RNs, Associate Degree in Nursing programs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs and direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing programs.
Nursing College Degree Options
There are multiple degrees available to become a nurse. And in order to become a Registered Nurse , a student must enroll in an accredited school and program. A nursing student can earn a qualifying degree in as little as 2 years, or advance to achieve a graduate degree for a total of six years. Following are some short descriptions of the nursing degrees that are offered to aspiring students in the Chicago Ridge IL area.
- Associates Degree. The Associate Degree in Nursing is generally a 2 year program offered by community colleges. It prepares graduates for an entry level job in nursing in healthcare centers including hospitals, clinics or nursing homes. Many utilize the ADN as an entry into nursing and subsequently obtain a higher degree.
- Bachelor’s Degree. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing supplies more extensive training than the ADN. It is usually a four year program offered at colleges and universities. Licensed RNs may be eligible to complete an accelerated program based on their prior training or degree and professional experience . Those applying to the program may want to advance to a clinical or administrative position, or be more competitive in the employment market.
- Master’s Degree. The Master of Science in Nursing is usually a 2 year program after obtaining the BSN. The MSN program provides specialization training, for instance to become a nurse practitioner or focus on administration, management or teaching.
Recommended Reading: Hondros College Of Nursing Cincinnati
John Wood Community College
Students who want a fast route into the career of nursing can enroll in the John Wood Community College program. The schools Associate Degree in Nursing, for RN designation, can provide an opportunity for students to not only get their education quickly but also to achieve their underlying goals in the field since various internships and hands-on learning in local hospitals is routinely available. As one of the states top-ranked community colleges, students who sit for the NCLEX-RN test tend to do well here.
Key benefits of the schools nursing program include a simulation lab for risk-free learning as well as clinical experience. The program is very diverse as well, offering opportunities for a wide range of students. Small class sizes are also very common here, and the faculty is well recognized as leaders in the local industry. The school believes that preparing students through the Student Nurses organization, community involvement, and worldwide appeal make it the ideal choice for students in the Chicago area.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%
- Program Length or Credit Hours: 2-year program
- Admission Requirements: Students must have a high school diploma or equivalent to apply to the college. Some prerequisite courses are required prior to being admitted into the nursing program.
- Tuition: $147 per credit hour
- School Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Rank: #14