10 Best LPN Programs in Illinois | Accredited Online LPN Programs 2025

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes a growing job outlook for licensed practical nurse (LPN) roles, which makes it a highly desirable field. Students seeking this type of nursing career need at least a year of post-secondary education, typically through a certificate program from an accredited community college.

For Illinois residents, numerous schools offer affordable, comprehensive programs that successfully prepare students to enter a nursing role. Below, we discuss the best accredited LPN programs online and in person. Keep reading to learn about reputable schools offering nursing students a convenient and flexible learning pathway.

Accredited LPN Programs Online in Illinois

If you want to become a practical nurse, you'll need to find the right nursing education certificate program that fits your schedule and budget. Many students are opting for LPN schools online

to balance their education with work and personal commitments. Below, we explore the best LPN programs that feature online learning opportunities, as well as in-person experiences.

1. Verve College

Verve College in Oak Brook offers one of the best hybrid online LPN programs in Illinois that is typically completed within 12 to 14 months. Students learn the basics of patient care through LPN online classes, such as taking vitals, giving injections, and hygiene.

Tuition and fees for the program total $24,995. This price includes program necessities like uniforms, books, supplies, and licensure exam fees.

2. State Career College

State Career College, approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), offers a hybrid LPN program in Gurnee. Students benefit from a mix of flexible LPN online classes and real-life clinical experience that adequately prepares them for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).

Tuition for this program costs $25,572. Students can apply for financial aid and participate in the employer tuition reimbursement opportunity.

3. Rockford Career College

At Rockford Career College, students can pursue a hybrid LPN program accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Students learn foundational skills for their nursing careers, which can be used in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.

The 79-credit program lasts 14 months and costs $31,547. To help manage these costs, students may complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for loan and grant opportunities.

4. Joliet Junior College

Joliet Junior College offers a full-time in-person LPN program. This comprehensive program ensures students are ready for thriving nursing careers; graduating classes have a 96% pass rate on the NCLEX-PN.

Tuition for country residents is $151 per credit hour, and all other Illinois students pay a rate of $425. Financial help is available including grants, loans, and institutional scholarships.

5. Harper College

Harper College in Palentine offers a year-long practical nursing program. This 38-credit hour program prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN, enter the workforce, and continue toward an associate's degree. Tuition for in-district residents is $138.50 per credit hour. Out-of-district residents pay $395.50.

6. Capital Area School of Practical Nursing

At Capital Area School of Practical Nursing in Springfield, nursing students can complete an accelerated 9-month LPN program. This certificate program successfully prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, as evidenced by its 100% pass rate.

The program costs $13,972.50. Students can apply for financial aid and scholarships to help manage tuition costs.

7. Danville Area Community College

Danville Area Community College offers a 24-credit LPN program. Students take coursework in anatomy and physiology, adult nursing, and maternal-child health nursing, among other classes. Tuition is $155 per credit hour.

8. John A. Logan College

John A. Logan College in Carterville offers a full-time, in-person practical nursing certificate program. This 36-credit hour program is accredited by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations. Tuition for students living within the district is $145 per credit hour; Illinois residents who live outside of the district pay $210.

9. Ambria College of Nursing

Ambria College of Nursing in Hoffman Estates offers one of the top on-campus LPN programs in Illinois. This year-long program provides real-world experience to prepare students for their nursing careers. Tuition totals $23,805 and includes 36 credit hours of learning.

10. Southeastern Illinois College

Southeastern Illinois College offers an in-person LPN program from which students learn the fundamentals of nursing care. Students take classes in Harrisburg on a full-time or part-time basis. Tuition is $110 per credit hour for students living within the district. Illinois students who live outside of these boundaries pay $176.

Our Selection Criteria

We found the best LPN programs in Illinois based on several aspects. We relied on several ranking factors, which include:

• Accreditation: All schools listed above are accredited and offer a quality education experience.
• Location: While some programs may have online hybrid options, all schools are based in Illinois.
• Program focus: We selected schools that specifically offer in-person or online courses for LPN certificate programs.
• Financial aid: We focused on finding cheap online colleges that accept financial aid, including loans, grants, or scholarships.

What Can I Expect As A Licensed Practical Nurse Student in Illinois?

LPN programs typically last around a year and include a mixture of theory and hands-on learning experiences. For online students, the theory classes are held online, while clinical experiences are done under the supervision of professional health facilities. Students may also need to attend labs on campus.

Fast-Track LPN Programs in Illinois

Accelerated LPN programs provide students with a streamlined and intensive educational curriculum that's typically condensed into a shorter timeframe, enabling students to complete their training in as little as six months. These accelerated programs are full-time; part-time LPN programs generally last longer than a year.

In Illinois, fast-track LPN programs are particularly appealing to those who may already have some healthcare experience or are eager to enter the workforce. For instance, the Capital Area School of Practical Nursing offers a 9-month LPN program.

Most schools on this list offer a 12-month LPN program, which provides all the necessary knowledge students need to achieve licensure. While some institutions may offer a 6-month LPN program, these are less common and often require students to have prior healthcare experience or certifications.

Read More: What Is The Shortest Time To Become An LPN?

FAQs About Accredited Online LPN Programs in Illinois

Aspiring nurses may have questions about online accredited LPN programs. We answer some of the most commonly asked questions below.

How Do Online LPN Programs Work for Illinois Students?

Online accredited LPN programs work much the same as completing an associate's degree. Students must take required online courses for LPN programs and pass assignments to receive a certificate.

These credit hours can then be transferred to a registered nurse (RN) program or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Students participating in a hybrid online education program may be able to complete some coursework solely online, such as lectures, readings, and assignments.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for LPN Programs in Illinois?

Admissions requirements vary by school, but generally, students must meet minimum competencies. These requirements likely include having a high school diploma or GED and passing a background check. Entrance exams and prerequisite courses may also be required to enroll in programs.

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

To become an LPN, students must complete an accredited certificate program and pass the licensing exam. Students can become LPNs in as few as nine months as a full-time student. Part-time LPN programs take longer to complete, possibly as long as two years.

Find Healthcare and LPN Programs Online Today

Students eager to become nurses can browse the online accredited LPN programs here on our website. Contact individual schools to get more information on financial aid opportunities and the admissions process.