Fast-Track LPN Programs Online in Illinois | Accelerated LPN Programs 2025

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are a growing job field with a steady 3% growth rate over the next decade. To become an LPN, one only needs to pursue a certificate program at a community college or technical school.

While most programs are typically between 12 and 16 months, an accelerated LPN program online or in person may be as short as six or nine months. Below, we discuss the best LPN programs for Illinois students seeking a fast nursing education, detailing programs that may be completed in as few as nine months.

Accelerated LPN Programs Online in Illinois

If you're looking to enter the nursing profession, accelerated LPN programs online or in-person offer a way to enter the workforce fast. Keep reading to learn about these quality education opportunities.

1. Capital Area School of Practical Nursing

The Capital Area School of Practical Nursing in Springfield offers an accelerated online hybrid certificate program to become an LPN fast. Students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue licensure and a nursing career. Tuition is priced at $13,972.50; however, students should expect to pay more throughout the term for additional fees, such as uniforms and books.

Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal loans and grants. As one of the cheapest online colleges that accept FAFSA, nursing students can receive low tuition rates and aid. Some outside scholarships may also be available to qualifying students, including the Illinois Nursing Education Scholarship, Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln - Scholarships, and HSHS Illinois Division Scholarship.

2. Illinois Valley Community College

Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby offers an accelerated LPN certificate program that can be completed in nine months. This three-semester-long program provides a solid nursing foundation that includes a blend of theoretical classwork and real-life clinical experience. Even though students complete the program quickly, the school has a 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

For in-district residents, tuition is affordably priced at $128.60 per credit hour. However, financial aid is available. Students may also participate in payment plans to help spread the remainder of tuition over the term.

3. North Shore College

North Shore College in Wheeling offers a rigorous LPN program that prepares students for licensure and real-world careers at care facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. This nursing program can be completed in as few as 11 months; however, students can take longer to complete their studies. The program, which includes over 1,050 hours of education, costs $18,489.

4. Kaskaskia College

Kaskaskia College in Centralia has provided comprehensive educational programs for nurses since the 1980s. Today, students can complete an LPN certificate program in 11 months that costs $10,182.93. This three-semester program teaches students critical communication and patient care skills necessary for the healthcare industry. Students complete hands-on experiences in supervised healthcare settings through internships and clinicals.

5. Ambria College of Nursing

Ambria College of Nursing is based in Hoffman Estates, a suburb of Chicago. This accredited nursing school offers an LPN program that may be completed in an accelerated 12-month timeframe; however, transfer students can complete the program in only eight.

Tuition for this 36-credit hour program is $23,805. Financial aid is available and students may also apply for state grants and scholarships.

How We Rank Schools

Students in Illinois can choose from many LPN programs. To determine the top options, we selected LPN programs that meet strict criteria. Some of our ranking considerations include:

• Accreditation: We chose schools that are accredited and approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
• Accelerated format: We chose programs that can be completed in 12 months or under.
• Location: While some programs offer online courses, all programs are based in Illinois.

What Can I Expect From Fast Track LPN Programs and Licensure in Illinois?

Fast-track LPN programs typically last six to 12 months, focusing on essential nursing skills, patient care, and medical terminology. Students participate in classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences to prepare for real-world nursing scenarios.

LPN program requirements and prerequisites may vary slightly between programs. For example, Ambria College of Nursing requires students to complete introductory composition and psychology courses to enter the program, while Northshore College requires additional math and anatomy courses.

Additionally, some fast-track medical LPN online programs may only last 36 credit hours, while other programs may require more. After passing accelerated LPN programs, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain licensure and start working.

Coursework in Accelerated LPN Programs

Generally, all LPN programs require classes that teach basic patient care. At Ambria College of Nursing, the core curriculum includes:

• pharmacology
• adult medical-surgical nursing
• maternal-child nursing
• nursing care of children
• anatomy and physiology

FAQs About the Fastest LPN Programs Online in Illinois

Prospective nursing students may have questions about LPN programs. We answer common questions below, detailing admissions requirements, program lengths, and more.

What Does a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Do?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an LPN provides essential patient care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. Their responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with daily activities, and maintaining patient records. LPNs also play a key role in patient education and support, ensuring comfort and safety in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

What Is the Fastest LPN Program in Illinois?

The quickest LPN programs in Illinois are the Capital Area School of Practical Nursing and Illinois Valley Community College. Both of these accelerated programs can be completed in as few as nine months.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Accelerated LPN Programs in Illinois?

Typically, all programs require students to hold a high school diploma or GED. Additional requirements may include entrance exams, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Prospective students also need to pass background and drug checks.

How Long Does It Take To Become an LPN in Illinois?

Some states have fast-track medical LPN programs that vary in length, but generally last under one year. This might include a:

• three-month LPN program
• six-month LPN program
• nine-month LPN program
• 12-month LPN program

In Illinois, however, the quickest LPN program is through an accelerated nine-month option. Generally, though, most programs are around a year or longer.

Find Licensed Practical Nurse Programs Online

Completing an LPN can lead to a rewarding career in healthcare. If you're ready to start your nursing education, browse the programs on Learn.org and reach out to any schools that interest you.