Illinois LPN to RN Programs (IL)

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Illinois LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs

Many people think LPN to RN programs are hard or difficult to complete. However, LPN to RN Bridge Programs make it easier for Illinois LPNs who work full-time to obtain an RN nursing degree. Many LPNs that attend LPN to RN transition programs have unusual work schedules, are a single parent or are unable to enroll in a traditional accredited nursing program. Visit the Illinois Board of Nursing to check the accreditation state of any Illinois nursing program. In Illinois, LPN-to-RN programs enable licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advance their career path and become a registered nurse (RN). While full-time LPN students can become an LPN by attending a year-long training program, the role transition of a LPN-to-RN program may take an average 2-4 years of focused study to complete. Illinois LPN to RN bridge programs are available at both the associate and bachelor's degree levels.

Online Illinois LPN-to-RN Programs

Online education is also known as distance learning. Online LPN to RN degree programs in Illinois and around the country now make it easier for LPNs to continue working while they advance their career path by attending LPN to RN role transition courses. When students attend an online LPN to RN program, they can take advantage of nursing courses at an university which is otherwise too far away for them to attend campus-based courses.

How Long Will an LPN to RN Take to Complete?

Online LPN to RN degree programs can be completed in as little as 18 months. Illinois LPNs can now earn an online Associate degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree over the internet. This provides the convenience working at their own pace without disrupting their busy schedules and personal/ family commitments. Students attending online LPN to RN programs can set their own hours and attend class in the comfort of their home or work. LPN-to-RN associate degree programs require applicants to have current licensure as an LPN. Applicants must also possess a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Illinois LPN-to-RN Bridge Prerequisites

In Illinois, a LPN to RN program prerequisite is a high school diploma or GED. Also, you may be required to take and pass a test such as the National League for Nursing Exam before being admitted.

Illinois Fast-Track RN Programs

Some Illinois nursing schools also offer "fast track" nursing programs. Fast track RN programs are designed to encourage students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to become a nurse. Students enrolled in Illinois fast track programs can earn a nursing degree in less time than traditional nursing programs. Fast track nursing programs focus on core nursing courses and and do not include traditional college general education classes. One Illinois school that offers fast track nursing program is Bluefield State College.

To qualify as a Illinois state registered nurse, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once a student earns their nursing degree and has passed the NCLEX-RN, they are qualified to practice as an Illinois_ registered nurse. Check your status at the Illinois Professional License Look Up page.

Comparing Illinois LPN to RN Degree Options

Illinois RN students can opt to study for 2 years to earn an associate's degree (ADN/ASN) or for 4 years to earn a bachelor of science (BSN) degree. RN student training in Illinois is rigorous. These programs cover coursework and clinical experiences which prepare you interact with the medical team and nursing leadership roles in a multitude of various healthcare settings.

The quicker way to your RN degree is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). An Associate Degree provides the entry level educational requirement to practice as a registered nurse in Illinois. One Illinois school that offers an associate degree program is College of Dupage. A traditional campus-based nursing program geared towards an associate degree takes 2 - 3 years to complete. By earning an ADN degree, you are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). You can also receive a Illinois RN license to practice as a Registered Nurse upon successfully passing the exam.

A Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN Degree) provides the basic level of education to practice as a professional Registered Nurse. Traditional campus-based BSN programs take 4 years to complete. BSN program curriculums contain courses not included in ADN programs including courses in nursing leaderships and management, community health nursing, risk reduction, and disease management. Graduates of Illinois BSN degree programs have greater professional career options than Associate degree nurses. BSN graduates also can receive additional competencies through specialty nursing certification, and have the educational foundation to prepare them for graduate programs in nursing or healthcare administration. One Illinois school that offers an BSN degree program is University of Illinois at Chicago.