Illinois LPN to RN/BSN Programs

Last Updated/Verified: Mar 19, 2025

Illinois offers a wide variety of program options for LPNs looking to advance their careers as an RN. An LPN to RN program, with pathways for both ADN and BSN degrees, can lead to working in niche specialties, higher-level nursing duties, and a substantial pay raise. Illinois RNs earn an average of $22,820 more per year than LPNs in the state, making it a natural choice for those who want to increase their earning potential.

If you are looking for more information on the LPN to RN educational pathway, read about the NCLEX-RN examination and check out the Illinois Board of Nursing for information on licensing and education for registered nurses in the state.

 

2025 Best LPN to RN Programs in Illinois

Looking for the best LPN to RN programs in Illinois? practicalnursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit for your nursing career. Our list highlights schools that offer quality education, flexible schedules, and support for students. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your career, our rankings guide you to make an informed choice. Check out our detailed rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn more about how we rank programs at https://practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Saint Xavier University

Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - sxu.edu

Associate - LPN to BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Saint Xavier University's LPN to BSN program is designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their careers to registered nursing. This accelerated program can be completed in 1-2 years, offering advanced placement credits to fast-track students towards their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The curriculum is comprehensive, focusing on professional nursing practices, including pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment in various healthcare environments. With a tuition rate of $750 per credit hour and an approximate total cost of $27,000, the program is both affordable and high-quality. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty, and hands-on clinical experiences, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam and beyond.

  • Advanced placement for LPNs
  • CCNE-accredited nursing program
  • 36 total credit hours
  • 1-2 year completion time
  • On-campus learning format
  • Clinical experiences across settings
  • Simulation and Integrated Learning Center
  • Small class sizes
  • Experienced professional faculty

Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The LPN to BSN program at Saint Xavier University provides a seamless transition for licensed practical nurses aiming to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program stands out for its advanced placement credits, enabling students to complete their degree in 1-2 years. It emphasizes health promotion, risk reduction, and illness management across diverse settings, alongside fostering critical thinking and professional development. Accredited by CCNE, the program costs approximately $27,000, with tuition at $750 per credit hour. Students engage in clinical experiences and simulation learning, supported by small class sizes and dedicated faculty, equipping them for the NCLEX-RN and future nursing roles.

  • On-Campus Program
  • 36 Total Credit Hours
  • 1-2 Years Completion Time
  • Advanced Placement Credit
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Per Credit Tuition: $750
  • Approximate Total Cost: $27,000
  • Clinical Experiences Included
  • Small Class Sizes
  • Simulation Learning Center
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#2

Bradley University

Peoria, IL - Private 4-year - bradley.edu

Associate - Nursing - Licensed Practical Nurse Entry

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bradley University's LPN to RN program is designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to elevate their careers to registered nursing. This campus-based program stands out for its credit transfer policy, allowing up to 11 credit hours from previous nursing education, and its early clinical exposure starting in the junior year. Students are immersed in a variety of healthcare environments, from urban hospitals to rural clinics, ensuring a broad clinical perspective. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN, with a total of 102 credit hours. Unique features include small clinical groups, personalized faculty mentorship, and extensive professional networking within Peoria's vibrant medical community.

  • LPN to RN pathway
  • 11 credit hours transfer
  • Clinical experiences junior year
  • Urban and rural healthcare exposure
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Diverse clinical settings
  • Total program: 102 credit hours
  • Professional networking opportunities
  • Small clinical teams
  • One-on-one faculty mentoring
#3

Heartland Community College

Normal, IL - Public 2-Year - heartland.edu

Associate - LPN to ADN Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Heartland Community College offers an LPN to ADN program designed for licensed practical nurses aiming to advance their careers to registered nurses. This campus-based program is tailored for LPNs, providing an accelerated pathway to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing in just 2-3 semesters. It stands out by awarding proficiency credits for prior nursing education, significantly reducing the time to completion. The curriculum is focused on preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam, ensuring they meet the licensure requirements. Admission is competitive, requiring an unencumbered Illinois LPN license, proof of 1,000 work hours, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and satisfactory TEAS test scores. The program also emphasizes hands-on learning through off-campus clinical experiences.

  • Advanced placement for LPNs
  • 2-3 semester completion time
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Proficiency credits awarded
  • Off-campus clinical experiences
  • Selective admission program
  • Unencumbered Illinois LPN license required
#4

Morton College

Cicero, IL - Public 2-Year - morton.edu

Associate - LPN to RN Transition Course

Campus Based - Visit Website

Morton College's LPN to RN Transition Course is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses aiming to elevate their careers to Registered Nurses. This program uniquely integrates prior LPN experience with advanced nursing education, focusing on the critical transition points in the ADN curriculum. Students gain a deep understanding of the expanded responsibilities of RNs, including patient care management and leadership roles in healthcare settings. The course not only bridges the gap between LPN and RN scopes of practice but also emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice and patient safety. With a curriculum that prepares students for immediate entry into the third semester of the ADN program, Morton College offers a fast-track to professional advancement without compromising on the depth of nursing education.

  • For LPNs advancing to RN.
  • Focuses on ADN program content.
  • Prepares for third semester ADN.
  • Covers RN and LPN scope differences.
  • Builds on prior nursing knowledge.
  • Enhances patient care skills.
  • Promotes professional growth.
  • Expands healthcare career opportunities.
  • Validates prior learning.
  • Emphasizes safe, quality care.
#5

Danville Area Community College

Danville, IL - Public 2-Year - dacc.edu

Associate - Nursing AAS LPN-To-RN Part Time Option

Campus Based - Visit Website

Danville Area Community College's Nursing AAS LPN-To-RN Part Time Option is designed for LPNs seeking to transition to RN roles without sacrificing their current employment. Spanning four semesters, the program features a flexible schedule with weekly lectures and bi-weekly clinical rotations to accommodate working professionals. Prospective students must hold an active LPN license, achieve a satisfactory ATI TEAS score, and possess AHA Healthcare Providers CPR certification. Admission is selective, with a 2.5 GPA minimum and completion of prerequisite general education courses. The ACEN-accredited curriculum ensures graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN, with the option to transfer credits graded 'C' or higher. For more information, consult the nursing department's official site.

  • Four-semester part-time program.
  • Weekly lectures, bi-weekly clinicals.
  • Requires active LPN license.
  • ATI TEAS test score needed.
  • AHA CPR certification required.
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 for admission.
  • General education prerequisites required.
  • ACEN accredited nursing program.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Transfer credits accepted with 'C' or better.
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

List of 2025 LPN to RN or LPN to BSN Programs in IL

Below is the 2025 best comprehensive list of LPN to RN programs in Illinois. Some of these programs may be a ADN or BSN degree, please visit the school's website for program details.

Jump to City:

Belleville, IL

Southwestern Illinois College

  • Associate - LPN Bridge Nursing Education

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-semester LPN Bridge program
    • ACEN accredited nursing program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • Clinical experiences from first semester
    • Multiple campus location options
    • Financial aid available
    • 16 students per cohort

Champaign, IL

Parkland College

  • Associate - Nursing - LPN to ADN Bridge

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • Clinicals at Carle, OSF.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • Limited admission twice yearly.
    • Combines theory and practice.
    • Online and on-campus classes.

Chicago, IL

City Colleges of Chicago-Harold Washington College

  • Associate - LPN Bridge Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • Complete RN in 3 semesters
    • Prior learning credits available
    • Prerequisite science courses required
    • Designed for practicing LPNs
    • Multiple course-specific grade requirements

City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College

  • Associate - LPN Bridge Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • Complete RN in 3 semesters
    • Prior learning credit available
    • Designed for working LPNs
    • Specific prerequisite requirements
    • Science courses within time limit

City Colleges of Chicago-Richard J Daley College

  • Associate - LPN Bridge Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in 3 semesters
    • Designed for practicing LPNs
    • Multiple prerequisite courses
    • Advanced nursing career path
    • Science and math requirements

City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College

  • Associate - LPN-Bridge Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • Complete RN in 3 semesters
    • Prior learning credit awarded
    • Requires specific prerequisites
    • Designed for working LPNs
    • Advanced nursing career path

Saint Xavier University

  • Associate - LPN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced placement for LPNs
    • CCNE-accredited nursing program
    • 36 total credit hours
    • 1-2 year completion time
    • On-campus learning format
    • Clinical experiences across settings
    • Simulation and Integrated Learning Center
    • Small class sizes
  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • On-Campus Program
    • 36 Total Credit Hours
    • 1-2 Years Completion Time
    • Advanced Placement Credit
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Per Credit Tuition: $750
    • Approximate Total Cost: $27,000
    • Clinical Experiences Included

Cicero, IL

Morton College

  • Associate - LPN to RN Transition Course

    Campus Based - Website

    • For LPNs advancing to RN.
    • Focuses on ADN program content.
    • Prepares for third semester ADN.
    • Covers RN and LPN scope differences.
    • Builds on prior nursing knowledge.
    • Enhances patient care skills.
    • Promotes professional growth.
    • Expands healthcare career opportunities.

Crystal Lake, IL

McHenry County College

  • Associate - LPN to RN Bridge

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Approved by Illinois Board.
    • Requires valid LPN license.
    • TEAS exam prerequisite.
    • Scholarships available.
    • Blends online and on-campus learning.
    • Focuses on professional nursing roles.
    • Clinical experience included.

Danville, IL

Danville Area Community College

  • Associate - Nursing AAS LPN-To-RN Part Time Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester part-time program.
    • Weekly lectures, bi-weekly clinicals.
    • Requires active LPN license.
    • ATI TEAS test score needed.
    • AHA CPR certification required.
    • Minimum GPA of 2.5 for admission.
    • General education prerequisites required.
    • ACEN accredited nursing program.

East Peoria, IL

Illinois Central College

  • Associate - Healthcare Professional to RN Completion

    Campus Based - Website

    • 24-month AAS degree program
    • Accredited by ACEN
    • Designed for LPNs/Paramedics
    • 60 total credit hours
    • Clinical experience included
    • Estimated cost $9,600
    • Small 15-student classes
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam

Joliet, IL

Joliet Junior College

  • Associate - LPN to Registered Nurse (R.N.) Transition

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format.
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
    • Small class sizes.
    • Cost-effective program.
    • Seamless BSN transition agreements.
    • Clinical experiences in community.
    • No expiration on general education.
    • Requires Illinois LPN license.

Normal, IL

Heartland Community College

  • Associate - LPN to ADN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced placement for LPNs
    • 2-3 semester completion time
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Proficiency credits awarded
    • Off-campus clinical experiences
    • Selective admission program
    • Unencumbered Illinois LPN license required

Peoria, IL

Bradley University

  • Associate - Nursing - Licensed Practical Nurse Entry

    Campus Based - Website

    • LPN to RN pathway
    • 11 credit hours transfer
    • Clinical experiences junior year
    • Urban and rural healthcare exposure
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Diverse clinical settings
    • Total program: 102 credit hours
    • Professional networking opportunities

River Grove, IL

Triton College

  • Associate - LPN to RN Transition

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Earn Associate in Applied Science.
    • Qualify for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Clinical experiences in diverse settings.
    • Requires Triton College application.
    • Submit relevant transcripts.
    • Placement exams required.

South Holland, IL

South Suburban College

  • Associate - LPN-RN Bridge Option

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year Associate Degree program
    • ACEN accredited nursing program
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Clinical training across healthcare settings
    • LPN to RN Bridge option available
    • Competitive admission process
    • Requires 2.5 GPA
    • 69 total program credits
*Dataset: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

Illinois LPN vs RN Salary Comparison By Area

Salary Comparison Tool

This tool will allow you to easily search and compare the average salaries of nurses for many cities and locations across the U.S. You can search by city and state. Salary data is provided through the BLS.

Select Career Type

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The table below compares the annual salary of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN), along with the percent increase that can be expected. The data was collected by the BLS for LPNs and RNs in Illinois.

On average an RN in Illinois earns $52,819, which is 10% more than the national average for registered nurses ($48,109).

City/AreaAvg LPN SalaryAvg RN Salary% Diff
Chicago, Naperville, Elgin - IL$55,140$77,71040.9%
Peoria - IL$43,890$66,70052.0%
Rockford - IL$48,750$64,54032.4%
Springfield - IL$44,120$68,31054.8%
Champaign, Urbana - IL$43,640$60,45038.5%
Carbondale, Marion - IL$40,410$63,88058.1%
Kankakee - IL$50,270$70,74040.7%
Bloomington - IL$47,700$65,00036.3%
Decatur - IL$43,590$59,82037.2%
Danville - IL$50,550$70,28039.0%

Table data taken from 2018 BLS https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm & https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm