Illinois is recognized for its diverse economic base. The state’s economy is driven by a combination of mature (manufacturing and transportation/distribution) and developing (R&D, info-tech, and green energy) industries. Illinois is home to a number of colleges and universities that offer degree programs in a variety of areas of study including nursing. Pursuing nursing education can turn out to be a smart choice as the demand for these healthcare professionals is likely to grow in the future due to advancements in health care technology and the increasing focus on prevention. People are living longer and require more medical attention. According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, registered nurses are projected to witness an increase in demand in the state of Illinois. With job growth projected at 16.3% by 2020, licensed practical and vocational nurses will see an increase as well, expected to total at 9.1% during the projected period.
LPN Programs in Illinois
Illinois colleges and universities offer a number of nursing programs in order to prepare graduates for the growing demand for nurses across the state. These include RN programs as well as LPN programs. LPN programs are generally offered at community, vocational schools and nursing colleges in the state. LPNs work under the supervision of RNs (registered nurses) and other healthcare professionals and provide basic nursing care to patients in healthcare settings.
LPN programs in Illinois will allow you to acquire skills essential for entry-level positions. You will gain foundational knowledge in the field of nursing and develop a number of skills useful to assist patients. To enroll in the LPN programs, you must hold a high school diploma or GED.
Program Coursework
A variety of courses are covered in the LPN programs in Illinois. These programs give students an insight into nursing care and practice. Common topics include:
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Microbiology
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Structure & function of human body
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Anatomy
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Pharmacology
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Legal and ethical nursing issues
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Diet and nutrition
The curriculum will enable students to make use of information technology to support patient care, and work together with healthcare team members and patients to support and facilitate. They will also learn how to provide safe nursing care in a number of healthcare settings.
Career Outlook for LPNs in Illinois
According to O Net Online, there were about 23,410 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses employed in Illinois in 2010. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), The figure will likely grow to 25,630 by 2020.
How much to LPN earn in Illinois?
According to BLS, the annual mean wage for LPNs in Illinois (2013) was $43,880.
Potential Workplace
Licensed practical nurses generally work in:
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Nursing care facilities
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Hospitals
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Offices of physicians
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Home health care services
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Residential care facilities
Are there any financial assistance programs for nursing students in Illinois?
Nursing students in the state of Illinois can apply for a number of financial aid programs. Eligible students can get funds to finance their nursing education including tuition, fee and related expenses. Students can apply for grants, scholarships or student loans such as:
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Nurse Educator Scholarships
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Nursing Education Scholarship Program
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Nursing Education Scholarship Program administered by IDPH
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Nurse Educator Loan Repayment Program
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Pell Grants
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Stafford Loans