LPN Programs in Rockford, Illinois

Get your LPN license in Rockford, Illinois - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Rockford, Illinois

Are you considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Rockford, Illinois? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. An LPN provides essential nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. Let’s dive into the steps you need to take to become an LPN in Rockford.

Why Become an LPN in Rockford

Rockford, Illinois, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a growing healthcare sector. Known for its scenic parks and historic sites, Rockford offers a great quality of life and numerous opportunities for healthcare professionals. If you’re interested in becoming an LPN, Rockford is an excellent place to start your career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an LPN in Rockford is around $47,000 per year, with projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more information on job outlook, you can visit the BLS LPN page.

For more about Rockford, visit the city’s official website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program in Rockford, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites. These typically include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing an entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs generally take about 12 to 18 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice. Courses often cover:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Maternal and Child Health
• Mental Health Nursing

Clinical training is a crucial part of the curriculum, giving you hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.

LPN Training Programs in Rockford, Illinois

Here are some local schools that offer LPN programs in Rockford:

1. Rock Valley College
   • Address: 3301 N Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61114
   • Program Description: Rock Valley College offers an excellent LPN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program is designed to be completed in one year.
   • Rock Valley College LPN Program
2. St. Anthony College of Nursing
   • Address: 5658 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108
   • Program Description: St. Anthony College of Nursing offers a comprehensive LPN program with a strong emphasis on patient care and clinical skills.
   • St. Anthony College of Nursing LPN Program
3. Highland Community College
   • Address: 2998 W Pearl City Rd, Freeport, IL 61032 (Approximately 30 miles from Rockford)
   • Program Description: Highland Community College provides a robust LPN program that prepares students for immediate employment in the healthcare field.
   • Highland Community College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Rockford

Rockford has several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment:

1. SwedishAmerican Hospital
   • Description: A division of UW Health, SwedishAmerican Hospital offers diverse employment opportunities for LPNs.
   • Location: Near East Rockford
   • SwedishAmerican Hospital Careers
2. Mercyhealth Hospital and Trauma Center – Rockton Avenue
   • Description: A comprehensive medical center providing numerous opportunities for LPNs.
   • Location: West Rockford
   • Mercyhealth Careers
3. OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
   • Description: Known for its specialized care units and advanced medical technology, this center offers various roles for LPNs.
   • Location: East Rockford
   • OSF Saint Anthony Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Illinois, you’ll need to meet the following certification requirements:

• Complete an approved LPN program
• Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

For more details, visit the IDFPR website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Rockford can vary but typically ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Illinois participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), making it easier for LPNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Illinois. If you’re moving from a non-NLC state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the IDFPR.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an LPN in Rockford, Illinois? Take the first step by reaching out to local schools and exploring their programs. Your rewarding career in nursing awaits!

Which Rockford schools offer LPN programs?

Rockford LPN Programs (campus-based programs as well as online LPN programs) are medical training programs. LPN programs are typically offered at vocational schools, technical schools, state colleges, nursing universities, online LPN programs, and other higher education institutions.

The best LPN school for you is the one that prepares you for success as a nurse. Many two year colleges that offer associate degrees also offer LPN programs. Exact class size and clinical requirements will vary by each college offering the program.

How do I become an LPN in Illinois?

You must complete a practical nursing program and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam to be certified and receive your required LPN licensure.

How long will my LPN Course be?

Most LPN programs take 1 year to one and a half years complete. That's a 12 month to 18 month training program. Some nursing schools offer LPN programs which will qualify you for certification after only 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 months of class.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No. Completing LPN training is not necessary before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN degree can be completed in as little as two years.

What are typical LPN Pre-Reqs?

As all schools have different academic requirements to get accepted into their LPN program, Illinois LPN schools are no exception. You can expect an entrance exam or at least a prerequisite check when you submit your application to determine your eligibility. There may be additional academic requirements also.

At the very least, most schools require applicants to have a High school diploma / GED. You also must get accepted to the college that you are applying to.

Financial aid, including nursing scholarships or federal grant money, may be available to you as a new students enrolling in Rockford LPN classes. For more information, check with the Admissions office at the program you are applying to.

Are CNA to LPN Programs Available?

Yes, some vocational schools in Illinois offer CNA to LPN programs. Usually, a CNA to LPN program will last one year. CNAs who Enroll in one of these programs will build upon their existing knowledge to learn the necessary skills to work at the LPN level.

• National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service
• American Nurses Association
  
• Licensed Practical Nurses - BLS
• AACN
• National League for Nursing
• National Student Nurses' Association - NSNA
• International Nursing Honor Society