RN Programs in Des Plaines, Illinois

Get your RN degree in Des Plaines, Illinois - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Des Plaines, Illinois

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Des Plaines, Illinois? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will help you navigate the process of becoming an RN, from understanding the prerequisites to exploring local RN programs. Let’s dive in and see what it takes to start your journey in healthcare right here in Des Plaines.

Why Become an RN in Des Plaines?

Des Plaines, a charming suburb of Chicago, offers a great mix of suburban tranquility and urban amenities. With its proximity to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and the bustling downtown of Chicago, Des Plaines is an ideal location for aspiring healthcare professionals.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in the Chicago metropolitan area is around $77,000 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. This makes it a promising and lucrative career choice.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you enroll in an RN program, you need to meet some basic prerequisites. Typically, you’ll need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Completion of any required entrance exams (e.g., TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

These prerequisites ensure that you’re prepared for the rigorous training and responsibilities of an RN program.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to provide comprehensive training in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. You can expect to take courses such as:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Ethics
• Patient Care and Assessment

In addition to classroom instruction, you’ll participate in clinical training, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced professionals.

RN Training Programs in Des Plaines, Illinois

Des Plaines offers several excellent options for RN training programs. Here are three local schools you might consider:

Oakton Community College
Oakton Community College Nursing Program
1600 E Golf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Oakton Community College provides a robust Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings. Tuition costs approximately $4,000 per year for in-district students.

Northwestern College
Northwestern College Nursing Program
9501 Technology Blvd, Rosemont, IL 60018
Located just a short drive from Des Plaines, Northwestern College offers an ADN program designed to equip students with essential nursing skills. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and offers flexible scheduling options. Tuition is approximately $17,000 per year.

Ambria College of Nursing
Ambria College of Nursing Program
5210 Trillium Blvd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
Ambria College of Nursing provides a comprehensive ADN program with a focus on practical nursing skills and critical thinking. The school boasts small class sizes and personalized instruction. Tuition fees are around $20,000 per year.

RN Employment Opportunities in Des Plaines

Once you complete your RN program, you’ll find a variety of employment opportunities in Des Plaines. Here are some major healthcare facilities in the area:

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital Careers
1775 Dempster St, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Located in nearby Park Ridge, this hospital is known for its comprehensive healthcare services and commitment to patient care. It offers numerous opportunities for RNs in various specialties.

Northwest Community Hospital
Northwest Community Hospital Careers
800 W Central Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Just a short drive from Des Plaines, Northwest Community Hospital is a leading healthcare provider with a wide range of nursing positions available.

Presence Holy Family Medical Center
Presence Holy Family Medical Center Careers
100 N River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
This medical center offers various job opportunities for RNs, focusing on compassionate care and advanced medical treatments.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Illinois, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain licensure from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Additionally, you’ll need to complete continuing education requirements to maintain your license.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Des Plaines can vary widely, ranging from around $4,000 to $20,000 per year. Fortunately, there are many financial aid options available, including federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Schools often have financial aid offices to help you navigate these options and apply for assistance.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Illinois from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Illinois participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Illinois with a multi-state license obtained from another compact state. You may need to meet additional requirements, such as a background check, to complete the process.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Des Plaines, Illinois, is a fulfilling and attainable goal. With numerous local RN programs, employment opportunities, and financial aid options, there’s no better time to start your journey. Contact a school today to learn more and take the first step toward your new career in nursing!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Des Plaines RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

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

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in Des Plaines?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Illinois. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Illinois. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Illinois.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.