Home LPN Programs Illinois

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.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.
Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.
Edit Template
Illinois LPN programs offering practical nursing education and hands-on clinical experience for entry-level nursing careers
Jump to Section
Edit Template

Cities in Illinois

2027 Best LPN Programs in Illinois

Choosing the right LPN program in Illinois is a big decision. That's why we at practicalnursing.org put together this list of the best LPN programs in the state. We looked at real data like NCLEX pass rates, program accreditation, and student reviews. Our rankings are updated often so you get the most current information. We aim to make the decision easier for you. Whether you want a fast-track program or a more traditional route, this list has options to fit your needs. To see exactly how we score and compare schools, check out our https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/ page.
#1

Lincoln Land Community College

Springfield, IL - Public 2-Year - llcc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lincoln Land Community College's Practical Nurse certificate equips students for entry-level LPN roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The one-year campus program, offered in Springfield, Jacksonville, and Hillsboro, blends nursing theory, anatomy, physiology, medication administration, and legal-ethical responsibilities with patient and family communication skills. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN and benefit from a 94% first-time pass rate and 92% employment within six months. ACEN-accredited, the program costs $8,899 total ($287 per credit) and includes the PATH financial support initiative. An LPN-to-ADN transition pathway allows for career advancement, and financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible students.

  • 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
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
#2

Shawnee Community College

Ullin, IL - Public 2-Year - shawneecc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Shawnee Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing certificate designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN and immediate entry into practice as an LPN. The curriculum covers anatomy, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, and mental health concepts, complemented by clinical rotations in area healthcare facilities. The program is accredited by the ACEN and boasts a 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate for the past eight consecutive years. Students can choose full-time or part-time schedules, with summer starts and 46 total credit hours. Prerequisites include anatomy, physiology, English, and nutrition, along with a 2.5 GPA and BLS certification. Graduates may also transition seamlessly into the college's Associate Degree Nursing pathway. Small cohorts and supportive faculty enhance student success.

  • 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
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • 2.5 GPA minimum
#3

Black Hawk College

Moline, IL - Public 2-Year - bhc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate LPN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Black Hawk College delivers a 40-credit Practical Nursing Certificate on its Quad-Cities Campus, combining nursing theory with hands-on clinical experiences. Students develop skills in patient care, medication administration, and health promotion while engaging in interprofessional collaboration projects with other health sciences students. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam and Illinois licensure, with recognition across many states. Admission requires a TEAS or HESI entrance exam, prerequisites in biology and English, and a 2.0 minimum GPA. The fall-start program does not require a CNA certificate, and applications are due February 27. Financial aid is available for eligible students, offering a direct career path for recent graduates or those changing careers.

  • 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
  • On-campus at Quad-Cities Campus
  • Career-oriented curriculum for LPN
#4

Richland Community College

Decatur, IL - Public 2-Year - richland.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Richland Community College offers a one-year Practical Nursing certificate program delivered on campus, designed for entry-level students seeking careers as Licensed Practical Nurses. The curriculum integrates classroom theory, skills laboratory practice, and supervised clinical rotations across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health settings. Students learn to provide nursing care under the direction of registered nurses, physicians, and nurse practitioners. The program is certified and includes transfer pathways for those wishing to pursue further nursing education. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination and can pursue employment in diverse healthcare environments. This intensive program emphasizes foundational nursing skills and compassionate patient care, providing a direct route into the nursing profession.

  • 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
#5

Carl Sandburg College

Galesburg, IL - Public 2-Year - sandburg.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Carl Sandburg College's one-year Practical Nursing certificate prepares students for entry-level LPN roles in hospitals, long-term care, clinics, schools, and home health. The curriculum emphasizes safety, patient-centered care, teamwork, critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and informatics. With a 93% NCLEX-PN pass rate and 100% job placement, graduates are well-prepared. Admission is selective via a point system requiring TEAS, SAT, or ACT scores. The ACEN-accredited program is approved by the Illinois State Board of Nursing, offering small classes at Galesburg and Carthage campuses, financial aid, and an LPN-to-RN pathway. Tuition is $12,799 for 33 credits, with fall enrollment and applications accepted October 1 through March 16.

  • 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
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2025).

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.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Illinois

For those aiming to become licensed practical nurses, time often matters. Shorter LPN programs in Illinois let students enter the workforce sooner. That means less time in classes and more time gaining real-world experience. The quickest options can make a big difference for busy adults balancing family and work. By choosing the fastest route, students can start earning and caring for patients without long delays. In a state with diverse communities, accelerated training helps meet growing healthcare demands. We encourage comparing program lengths, graduation rates, and retention. A shorter program doesn't mean less quality, just a smarter path to a rewarding career in Illinois's nursing field.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Stautzenberger College-Rockford Career College
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 14-Month program
  • 79 total credit hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Hands-On Experience
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 26 :1
Heartland Community College
  • 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
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1
Lincoln Land Community College
  • 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
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17 :1
*Dataset citation: NCES. (2025). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Illinois

Finding the right LPN program in Illinois can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to break the bank. The table below highlights several schools across the state, from Chicago to Springfield, offering certificate and associate degree options. Each listing includes program highlights and the tuition range, so it's easy to compare. Finding an affordable program is key, especially when starting a nursing career. High costs shouldn't stop motivated students. That's why we've gathered these options to help you make a smart decision. Remember to consider the full tuition and what's included. Explore the table to see which program fits your goals and budget.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Carl Sandburg College
  • 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
  • $6,400 - $9,600 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $7,100 - $10,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Lincoln Land Community College
  • 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
  • $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $8,400 - $12,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Black Hawk College
  • 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
  • $6,400 - $9,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $6,500 - $9,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*National Center for Education Statistics. (2025). IPEDS data system. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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 State Salary in Illinois

$68,450

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

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

VS

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

Searching for LPN programs in Illinois? We have compiled a helpful list of schools that offer practical nursing programs. Each school is listed with its city and state location, key program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. This table makes it easy to compare your options and find the training that fits your goals. Dive in and start your journey toward becoming an LPN in Illinois.
Jump to City:

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 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Admission points for GPA and CNA work
    • English proficiency required for non-native speakers
    • C or higher required in all program courses

Chicago, IL

City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing, Advanced Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 49 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Credit transfer to associate or bachelor's programs

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 total credit hours
    • Only for ADN program students
    • Focus on patient advocacy and dignity
    • Emphasis on therapeutic communication
    • Covers maternal-child nursing
    • Covers chronic illness nursing
    • Includes nursing pharmacology

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

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

    • Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Board of Higher Education, Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts fall
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • No free book rental for PN program
    • Limited at-large positions available

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

    • Starts summer
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Supervised clinical experience in area hospitals
    • Admits up to 20 students each summer

Matteson, IL

CAAN Academy of Nursing

  • Certificate/Diploma - License Practical Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 59-week program length.
    • 1,180 clock hours total.
    • Campus-based in Matteson, IL.
    • Certificate of Completion awarded.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Prepares for LPN licensure.
    • Five days weekly schedule.
    • Prerequisites include Medical Terminology.

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

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

Rockford, IL

Stautzenberger College-Rockford Career College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 14-Month program
    • 79 total credit hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Hands-On Experience

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
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2025 Final Release Data.

Related Articles