Located in Illinois, Chicago is the third most populous US city with about 2.7 million residents. The city has a diverse economic base with prominent sectors in manufacturing, information technology, transportation, and green energy. Chicago is home to a number of post-secondary institutes that offer a range of learning opportunities for individuals who seek to prepare for the city’s workforce. There are numerous nursing schools in the city as well that provide training for aspiring nurses. According to statistics, demand for nurses in Chicago is on the increase. A number of factors are responsible for the growing demand of these healthcare professionals. For example, the baby boomer generation is requiring additional long-term care, creating more demand for nurses. According to the OECD Territorial Review, the Chicago area has a serious shortage of nurses. In Illinois, nursing is one of the occupations with the most vacancies.
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Nursing Schools in Chicago
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Where do nurses work?
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What are the opportunities for Chicago nurses?
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What about financial assistance?
Since demand for nurses across the city as well as the state is likely to grow, nursing schools are prepared to meet this demand by providing quality learning opportunities for students interested in the nursing sector. Students who want to acquire the knowledge and skills that may possibly help them find nursing positions can choose from a range of programs including certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
The types of programs available for aspiring nurses include diploma, associate, and bachelor’s degree programs. Associate’s degrees and diplomas help students who want to pursue entry level nursing positions, and bachelor’s degree prepare nursing students for positions in nursing or administration.
All nursing programs include classroom based instruction as well as practical training in clinical settings where students get a chance to gain hands-on experience in the field. Some topics of study may include:
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Anatomy
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Physiology
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Pharmacology
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Diet and nutrition
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Microbiology
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Structure & function of human body
Nursing programs in Chicago also include licensed practical nurse (LPN) programs. These programs are designed to prepare students to take up nurse practitioner roles - nurses who assist registered nurses (RN).
Chicago nurses work in a number of settings including:
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Hospitals
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Clinics
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Physician’s offices
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Home health care services
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Residential care facilities
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Nursing homes
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Colleges and universities
According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, registered nurses are projected to see an increase in job demand in the state of Illinois, with a job growth of 16.3% expected from 2010 to 2020. In addition to RNs, LPNs will see growth as well, projected to total 9.1% during the same timeline.
Nursing students in Chicago who need financial aid for their educational expenses can apply for awards including grants, scholarships, and student loans. Some of the options include:
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Pell Grants
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Nurse Educator Scholarships
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Stafford loans
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Nursing Education Scholarship Program administered by IDPH
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Nursing Education Scholarship Program