If you’re looking to start a career in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can be a great option. LPNs work under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and perform tasks such as administering medication, taking vital signs, and providing basic patient care. If you live in the Chicago area, you have several options for LPN programs. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about LPN programs in Chicago.
What is an LPN Program?
An LPN program is a type of educational program that prepares students to become licensed practical nurses. These programs typically take around one year to complete and are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and vocational schools. During an LPN program, students will learn essential nursing skills like anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and mental health.
Once students have completed their coursework and clinical experience requirements, they must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed as an LPN.
Benefits of Becoming an LPN
Becoming an LPN has several benefits:
- It’s a great way to enter the healthcare field without spending years in school.
- There is high demand for nurses in general, which means job security for those who become LPNs.
- The median annual salary for LPNs was $47,480 as of May 2020 according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Many employers offer benefits like health insurance and retirement plans to their employees.
LPN Programs in Chicago
Now that we’ve covered what an LPN program is and its benefits let’s turn our attention to specific programs available in Chicago.
City Colleges of Chicago – Malcolm X College
Malcolm X College offers a Practical Nursing Certificate program that takes 12 months to complete. Students will learn medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, mental health nursing, obstetric nursing, and medical-surgical nursing. The program also includes clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
Triton College
Triton College offers a Practical Nursing Certificate program that takes 11 months to complete. Students will learn nursing concepts and skills like wellness promotion, health assessment, medication administration, caring for patients with chronic conditions or acute illnesses. In addition to classroom instruction, students will participate in clinical experiences in hospital and long-term care facilities.
Richard J Daley College
Richard J Daley College offers an LPN certificate program that takes 12 months to complete. The curriculum covers subjects such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology for the practical nurse, health assessment for the practical nurse I and II, medical-surgical nursing I and II among others.
Wright College
Wright College offers an LPN certificate program that takes 12 months to complete. The curriculum covers foundational nursing concepts such as patient care skills (including vital signs), patient safety principles including basics of therapeutic communications.
LPN Program Requirements
To determine eligibility for LPN programs in Chicago requires meeting certain requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Complete Entrance Exams – ACCUPLACER
- Attend an Informational Session
- Have a physical examination record from a licensed physician stating freedom from communicable diseases
- Obtain required immunization records including MMR vaccine (2 doses) Varicella Vaccine (2) doses or adequate titer results taken within the last six years; Tdap within the last ten years; annual flu shots; Hepatitis B series or decline signed by student
Be sure to check with each school’s specific requirements before you apply.
LPN Program Costs
The cost of an LPN program can vary based on several factors like location, the type of school, and whether or not you qualify for financial aid. On average, an LPN program in Chicago can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.
LPN Program Accreditation
It’s essential to attend an accredited LPN program to ensure your education meets professional standards. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) accredits practical nursing programs in the state. All of the LPN programs mentioned above are approved by the IDFPR.
Job Outlook for Chicago LPNs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for licensed practical nurses is expected to grow 9% between 2019 and 2029—faster than the national average for all occupations. In addition, there’s a considerable demand for healthcare workers in general due to an aging population that requires more medical care.
Conclusion
By now, you should have a better understanding of what you can expect from LPN programs in Chicago. With several options available and continued job growth in healthcare industries, becoming an LPN could be a great career move if you’re interested in starting a new chapter in your life or advancing your current profession. Be sure to do your research, check each program’s cost and requirements before finalizing which option suits you best.
FAQs
What is an LPN program?
An LPN program is a certificate or diploma program that trains individuals to become licensed practical nurses.
Why should I consider enrolling in an LPN program in Chicago?
Enrolling in an LPN program in Chicago can provide you with the education and training you need to begin a rewarding career in healthcare. Additionally, Chicago has a high demand for healthcare professionals, providing you with many job opportunities after graduation.
How long does it take to complete an LPN program in Chicago?
The length of an LPN program can vary, but most programs take between 9 months and 1 year to complete. Some programs may offer part-time options that take longer to complete.
What are some of the top LPN programs in Chicago?
Some top LPN programs in Chicago include City Colleges of Chicago Health Science Programs, Malcolm X College, and Truman College. It’s important to research each school’s curriculum, accreditation status, and job placement rates before choosing a program.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an LPN program in Chicago?
Prerequisites for enrolling in an LPN program can vary by school, but may include a high school diploma or GED, completion of certain prerequisite courses (such as anatomy and physiology), and passing a background check or drug screening.
Can I work while enrolled in an LPN program in Chicago?
Many students work part-time while enrolled in an LPN program, but it’s important to make sure your work schedule doesn’t interfere with your class schedule or clinical rotations. Time management skills will be essential during this time.
What is the cost of attending an LPN program in Chicago?
The cost of attending an LPN program can vary by school. In Chicago, the cost of attending an LPN program can range from $5,000 to $20,000. Financial aid options may be available to help offset the cost.
What kind of coursework will I complete in an LPN program?
LPN programs generally include coursework in anatomy and physiology, nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics and gerontology. There will also be clinical rotations to provide hands-on training.
What kind of job opportunities are available after completing an LPN program in Chicago?
Job opportunities for LPNs are plentiful in Chicago and can include working in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health settings. The average salary for an LPN in Chicago is around $48,000 per year.
Can I continue my education after completing an LPN program in Chicago?
Yes! Many LPNs choose to continue their education by enrolling in RN or BSN programs later on. Some programs even offer bridge programs that allow you to apply your credits towards a higher degree.