LPN to RN Programs in Illinois
As the population of Illinois grows and becomes more diverse, you may see the health care needs and expectations of your state changing. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, realize that you now have the chance to meet the needs of local employers by expanding your education and learning how to work in a variety of nursing settings. In fact, many LPN to RN Illinois programs allow you to keep working while you complete your degree.
While you start looking at the opportunities presented by this type of program, you may discover that the need for RNs is growing very quickly in many parts of Illinois. In central Illinois, health care providers are expanding training options to try to keep up with hiring needs.
To get started on the path to becoming a registered nurse, read more about LPN to RN programs Illinois schools offer.
Why Should I Enter an LPN to RN Program in IL
Going back to school can be a big commitment, so you’re not alone if you are wondering if it’s worth it to become a registered nurse. However, there are many reasons that the time you spend in school is worth the effort. While the average salary for an LPN in Illinois is $44,600 per year, the average income for a registered nurse is $66,100 per year (O*Net, 2014).
In addition, stepping up to the level of registered nurse may allow you to get in at the ground floor level of new health care centers. MercyRockford Health System is in the middle of building a new $400 million health center.
Curriculum of LPN to ADN and LPN to BSN Programs in Illinois
Get ready to tackle a number of learning goals and outcomes as a registered nursing student in Illinois. Not only do these programs attempt to make you a more skilled and confident nurse, they aim to broaden your knowledge in general with general education courses. General education classes are required in both Associate’s degree programs and Bachelor’s degree programs.
When you get into the advanced nursing coursework that is part of your curriculum, you may begin with a course like LPN to RN Transition. This class prepares you for the changes that come with this change in title and the additional responsibilities you may take on. From there, you can advance to high-level nursing courses like Assessment and Management of Mental Health, Pediatric Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Care for Children and Their Families, and Geriatric Nursing.
LPN to RN programs in IL put a lot of weight on clinical experience, as you should leave the program ready to jump into a registered nursing position anywhere in Illinois. To meet the expectations of your school, you may plan on spending several hundred hours in local clinics and hospitals.
You may be a good fit for many different financial aid programs in Illinois, especially if you are willing to work in Illinois after graduation. Through the Center for Rural Health, nursing students who are willing to work in a rural area after graduation can qualify for grants, scholarships, and loan forgiveness.
Ready to explore the opportunities of registered nursing? Get started now by contacting LPN to RN programs in Illinois.