Best LPN Programs in Illinois 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Illinois with information on schools, classes, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Illinois.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Illinois
Olney Central College
Olney, IL - Public 2-Year - iecc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Olney Central College's Practical Nursing Certificate, part of Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, features a distinctive summer 'exit' course option between the first and second year of the Associate Degree Nursing Program. Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, it enables students to take the practical nurse licensing exam while continuing their education. This program is ideal for those seeking to advance their nursing skills without leaving the associate degree track, focusing on hands-on training and career readiness in healthcare. No concentration is specified, and as a certificate program, it does not require entrance exams like ACT or SAT.
- Summer 'exit' course option.
- Approved by IDFPR.
- Prepares for licensing exam.
- Enhances educational experience.
- Focus on practical nursing skills.
Wabash Valley College
Mount Carmel, IL - Public 2-Year - iecc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Wabash Valley College's Practical Nursing Certificate provides a unique summer 'exit' course integrated within the Associate Degree Nursing Program, allowing students to pursue LPN licensure without interrupting their ADN studies. Approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, this campus-based program focuses on preparing students for the practical nurse licensing exam through a structured curriculum that enhances their nursing education. It offers a flexible pathway for those seeking to enter the nursing profession while continuing their degree, with no concentration specified and no entrance exam requirements mentioned.
- Approved by IDFPR.
- Summer exit course option.
- Prepares for licensing exam.
- Does not require exiting ADN program.
- Enhances educational experience.
Ambria College of Nursing
Hoffman Estates, IL - Private 4-year - ambria.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Ambria College of Nursing's 12-month Practical Nursing Program in Hoffman Estates prepares students for LPN careers with flexible scheduling options including day and evening classes, full-time or part-time enrollment. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical rotations during both day and evening shifts, complemented by high NCLEX-PN pass rates. Admission requires attendance at an Info Session, and tuition costs vary based on transfer credits and proficiency exams. Graduates typically earn annual salaries between $44,000 and $46,000, making it a standout choice among private LPN schools in Illinois for its comprehensive training and career readiness.
- 12-month program duration
- Flexible day and evening classes
- Full-time and part-time options
- High NCLEX-PN pass rates
- Clinical rotations available
- Tuition varies by credits
- Info Session required for admission
- Average salary $44K-$46K
Heartland Community College
Normal, IL - Public 2-Year - heartland.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate Sequence
Campus Based - Visit Website
Heartland Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate Sequence is a one-year campus program in Normal, IL, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam and LPN licensure. Admission requires CNA certification or completion of Heartland's Medical Assistant program, with applications accepted from October to March. The curriculum blends nursing and general education courses, emphasizing hands-on clinical experiences at major medical centers in the Bloomington/Normal area. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and there is no waiting list for qualified applicants. This program is ideal for those seeking an accessible path to a rewarding career in healthcare, with strong future demand for LPNs.
- One-year program duration.
- CNA certification required for admission.
- Applications accepted October to March.
- Includes general education courses.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships offered.
- Clinicals in Bloomington/Normal area.
- No waiting list for qualified applicants.
Sauk Valley Community College
Dixon, IL - Public 2-Year - svcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Sauk Valley Community College's Practical Nursing program trains students to become LPNs through a state-approved curriculum focused on patient care skills like vital sign measurement and medication administration. The 43-credit program requires a 2.5 GPA, CNA certification, and TEAS testing, with in-district tuition at $6,450. Graduates are prepared for NCLEX-PN licensing and roles in nursing homes, clinics, and other healthcare settings, offering multiple admission pathways for flexibility.
- State-approved nursing program
- 43 total credit hours
- Requires CNA certification
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- NCLEX-PN licensing preparation
- In-district tuition $6,450
- Multiple admission pathways
- TEAS testing required
- Clinical skills training
- Healthcare career preparation
Illinois LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To qualify for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Illinois, applicants typically must have a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects like biology, chemistry, or math. Applicants also need to pass a background check and submit proof of immunizations. A number of schools may require students to pass an entrance exam, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Meeting all eligibility requirements is critical before enrollment in any Illinois-based practical nursing program.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Illinois focus on essential nursing skills including patient care, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, and mental health nursing. Programs blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience in healthcare settings. Students learn how to monitor vital signs, administer medications, assist in patient hygiene, and communicate effectively with patients and healthcare teams.
Accreditation is a key factor in selecting an LPN program. Accredited programs meet educational standards set by certifying bodies, which ensures the quality and legitimacy of the training. In Illinois, it is important to verify that a program is approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Graduating from an approved program is required to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure in Illinois.
LPN Schools and Classes
Various community colleges, technical schools, and private institutions across Illinois offer LPN programs. These schools deliver a curriculum that includes both general education and specialized nursing courses. Common classes include Anatomy and Physiology, Fundamentals of Nursing, Pharmacology, Nursing Care of Children, and Medical-Surgical Nursing. Clinical rotations, which are a major component of every program, take place in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings throughout the state. Students gain practical skills and real-world nursing experience essential for their careers.
Career Outlook
Illinois offers a strong job market for Licensed Practical Nurses, with opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, home health care, physician offices, and assisted living facilities. The demand for LPNs is driven by an aging population and increased need for long-term care. LPNs in Illinois often enjoy consistent job stability and flexible work schedules, including part-time, full-time, and shift-based positions. While LPNs work under the direction of Registered Nurses and physicians, they play a vital role in bedside care and ongoing patient management in both urban and rural healthcare systems.
LPN Program Length
Full-time LPN programs in Illinois usually take 12 to 15 months to complete. These programs follow a structured schedule of daytime classes and clinical hours. Part-time programs may extend to 18 to 24 months and are designed for students needing more flexibility. Evening and weekend programs are also available in select schools to accommodate working adults. These options allow students to balance personal responsibilities while still progressing toward licensure.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Illinois
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| William Rainey Harper College |
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| City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College |
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| Olney Central College |
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Tuition and Costs
In Illinois, the tuition for LPN programs typically ranges from $8,000 to $20,000 depending on the type and location of the institution. Community colleges generally offer more affordable rates compared to private or technical schools. Additional expenses include textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, liability insurance, and examination fees. Students attending programs far from home may also incur housing costs, which can vary widely depending on city or campus housing. Budgeting for travel to clinical sites and licensing fees is also important.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Illinois
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Carl Sandburg College |
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| Kaskaskia College |
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| Black Hawk College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
While some theoretical coursework may be delivered in a hybrid format, LPN programs in Illinois cannot be completed entirely online. This is because practical nursing education requires direct patient care experience in clinical settings, which cannot be simulated virtually. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation mandates in-person clinical training for eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. As a result, students should expect to attend labs and clinical rotations in person regardless of whether some classroom material is available online.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Illinois
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Illinois, graduates of approved practical nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, a national competency examination administered by Pearson VUE. Applicants must first submit their application for licensure to the Illinois Board of Nursing along with proof of program completion before being authorized to take the exam. Results are typically provided within a few days, and successful candidates will be issued a license once all other requirements are verified.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Illinois offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs licensed in other states. Applicants must submit a completed endorsement application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), provide verification of their existing active license, and meet education and examination equivalency. Illinois is currently not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means LPN licenses issued by Illinois are not valid for multistate practice. Nurses seeking to practice in Illinois must obtain separate licensure even if they are licensed in an NLC state.
Licensure Requirements
The Illinois Board of Nursing regulates all LPN licensing. Initial licensure requirements include graduating from a state-approved practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN. Candidates must also complete a criminal background check and provide supporting documentation such as fingerprinting results and official transcripts. International graduates must submit credentials evaluated by a recognized credentialing service and demonstrate English language proficiency where applicable. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
License Renewal
In Illinois, LPN licenses must be renewed every two years by January 31 of every odd-numbered year. To renew their license, LPNs must complete 20 hours of approved continuing education (CE) within each two-year renewal cycle. At least one hour must be in sexual harassment prevention training. Courses must be completed through providers approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. There are no clinical hour requirements for renewal, but licensees must affirm completion of CE when renewing online through the IDFPR portal.
Illinois LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse in Illinois is $68,450, which is more than $6,000 higher than the national average of $62,340. This wage premium is largely influenced by the state's higher cost of living, particularly within the Chicago metropolitan area. Additionally, a strong demand for LPNs in the long-term care sector, driven by an aging population, and a dynamic healthcare landscape shaped by state regulations contribute to the more competitive compensation structure compared to the national benchmark.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Illinois LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
12 to 18 months.
Credential Awarded:
Diploma or Certificate of Completion.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes, upon completion of a state-approved program.
Program Focus:
Concentrates entirely on core nursing theory, clinical skills, and patient care required for LPN practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Illinois:
Approximately $15,000 - $25,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest route to licensure and employment as an LPN.
School Types:
Community colleges, vocational schools, and technical/career centers.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
2 years (approximately 24 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes, upon completion of a state-approved program.
Program Focus:
Combines core LPN nursing coursework with required general education classes like English, math, and social sciences.
Average In-State Tuition in Illinois:
Approximately $20,000 - $35,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).
Best For:
Students who want a formal college degree and a clearer pathway for future education, such as an LPN-to-RN bridge program.
School Types:
Primarily community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Completion: It is the quickest path to graduate, take the NCLEX-PN, and enter the nursing workforce.
- Lower Overall Cost: With fewer required credit hours, the total tuition is typically less expensive than an associate degree program.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is ideal for students who want to concentrate exclusively on nursing skills without the prerequisite general education courses.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Easier Education Advancement: The general education credits earned are more likely to transfer into an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN bridge program, saving future time and money.
- Broader Skill Set: The inclusion of general education courses helps develop stronger critical thinking, writing, and communication skills, which are highly valued in healthcare.
- Enhanced Resume: Holding a formal college degree (AAS) can be more appealing to some employers and may open doors to future leadership or specialized roles.
- Greater Flexibility: An associate degree provides a solid educational foundation that can be applied to other fields if a career change is desired later.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Illinois
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $59,710 - $75,980 | 12-18 months | NCLEX-PN | 500-750 hours | $15,000 - $30,000 |
| MA | $37,840 - $49,040 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) exam | 160-220 hours | $5,000 - $17,000 |
| CNA | $37,350 - $45,860 | 4-12 weeks | Illinois Nurse Aide Competency Exam (INACE) | Minimum 40 hours | $800 - $2,500 |
| DA | $40,110 - $57,480 | 9-12 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam | 200-300 hours | $5,000 - $18,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,920 - $49,850 | 6-12 months | PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) exam | 120-200 hours | $4,000 - $15,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $39,230 - $51,020 | 2-6 months | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) exam | 100-120 hours | $1,000 - $4,000 |
| OTA | $61,730 - $79,840 | 2 years (Associate's degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | Minimum 640 hours | $25,000 - $45,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Illinois
Belleville, IL
Southwestern Illinois College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- 84% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Practical experience at local hospitals
- Simulation lab and clinical training
- Careers in hospitals and clinics
- Competitive admission process
Centralia, IL
Kaskaskia College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 11-Month program
- 2 start dates per year
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
Champaign, IL
Parkland College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 49 credit hours.
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN.
- CNA certification required.
- 2.50 GPA minimum.
- English proficiency needed.
- Includes clinical rotations.
- Financial aid available.
Chicago, IL
City Colleges of Chicago-Harold Washington College
- Practical Nursing
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Advanced Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Credits transferable to higher degrees.
- Selective admission process.
- Four-semester program length.
- Covers nursing fundamentals.
- Includes human biology courses.
- Focus on life span care.
- Minimum GPA requirement 2.5.
City Colleges of Chicago-Richard J Daley College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Advanced Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Pathway to further nursing education.
- Selective admission process.
- Prerequisite courses required.
- High school diploma or GED needed.
- Minimum ATI TEAS exam score.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on nursing theory and practice.
City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College
- Practical Nursing
Danville, IL
Danville Area Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Nursing Level 1 Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares Licensed Practical Nurses
- Selective admission program
- Comprehensive clinical experiences
- 24 total program hours
- NCLEX-PN exam eligibility
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- Multiple prerequisite science courses
- Healthcare provider CPR certification
Decatur, IL
Richland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- Clinical experiences in hospitals
- Under direction of registered nurse
- Certified program
- Transfer pathways available
- Classroom instruction and laboratory
- Community health settings experience
Des Plaines, IL
Oakton College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN) Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- 39 credit hours
- Campus-based program
- Part of ADN program
- Focuses on patient care
- Includes pharmacology courses
- Covers anatomy and microbiology
- Emphasizes professional ethics
- Requires ADN enrollment
Dixon, IL
Sauk Valley Community College
- Practical Nursing
East Peoria, IL
Illinois Central College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- $5,678 total program tuition
- 12-Month program
- 34 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 92% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- $0 application fee
Fairfield, IL
Frontier Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for practical nurse licensing exam
- Summer exit option from ADN
- Approved by IDFPR
- Part of IECC nursing program
Galesburg, IL
Carl Sandburg College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Illinois State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS, SAT, ACT
- $12,799 total program tuition
- 1-Year program
- 33 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 93% licensure pass rate
Harrisburg, IL
Southeastern Illinois College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Concentration: pediatrics, obstetrics - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based learning
- Pediatrics and obstetrics focus
- Full-time and part-time options
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Approved by Illinois regulators
Hoffman Estates, IL
Ambria College of Nursing
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration
- Flexible day and evening classes
- Full-time and part-time options
- High NCLEX-PN pass rates
- Clinical rotations available
- Tuition varies by credits
- Info Session required for admission
- Average salary $44K-$46K
Ina, IL
Rend Lake College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 37 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-03-31
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prerequisite courses required
- $0 application fee
Malta, IL
Kishwaukee College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing, Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 46-47 credit hours
- Requires 2.5 GPA
- Focus on NCLEX-PN prep
- Includes clinical experience
- For ADN program students
- Summer term available
- Limited to 20 students
Mattoon, IL
Lake Land College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in three semester program
- 41 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Competitive special admission process
Moline, IL
Black Hawk College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate LPN
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS, HESI
- 40 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
Mount Carmel, IL
Wabash Valley College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Approved by IDFPR.
- Summer exit course option.
- Prepares for licensing exam.
- Does not require exiting ADN program.
- Enhances educational experience.
Normal, IL
Heartland Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate Sequence
Campus Based - Website
- 1-Year program
- Complete in one-year
- Starts summer/fall
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- CNA or MA graduate required for admission
- Clinicals at Bloomington/Normal hospitals
- Travel to Lincoln, Peoria, Pontiac, Springfield
Oglesby, IL
Illinois Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: HESI
- 12-Month program
- Complete in completed in three semesters or twelve months
- Apply by 2026-03-01
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
Olney, IL
Olney Central College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for practical nurse licensing exam
- Summer exit option after first year
- Approved by Illinois DFPR
- Hometown and family oriented
- Optional within ADN program
Palatine, IL
William Rainey Harper College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 38 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 71% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Palos Hills, IL
Moraine Valley Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing (Cert)
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
- High employment rates.
- Requires TEAS test.
- Background check needed.
- Health requirements mandatory.
- Cutting-edge technology used.
- Clinical experiences included.
Rockford, IL
Stautzenberger College-Rockford Career College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 14-month duration
- 76.5 credits
- Prepares for licensure exam
- Small class sizes
- Experienced faculty
- Hands-on training
- Focus on clinical skills
Springfield, IL
Lincoln Land Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- $8,899 total program tuition
- $287 per credit
- 1-Year program
- Starts fall
- 94% licensure pass rate
- 92% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Ullin, IL
Shawnee Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 1-Year program
- 46 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
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