LPN to RN Online Programs in IL: Evaluating Top Schools
Ready to level up your LPN license and experience? You’re not alone. With Illinois facing a growing nursing shortage, RNs are earning significantly higher salaries. So there’s never been a better time to explore LPN to RN Bridge programs. Discover how three leading Illinois institutions are revolutionizing the LPN to RN transition with flexible online and hybrid programs that fit your busy schedule.
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Comparing Online LPN to RN Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers a variety of programs for LPN to RN transitions. If you’re an LPN already working in healthcare, you need flexible class options that align with your busy schedule. The benefit of LPN to RN bridge programs is they offer a simple way to transition from one nursing career to the next, taking advantage of what you already know to level up your career.
While there are many hybrid options in Illinois, you won’t find any LPN to RN bridge programs that are fully online given the in-person clinical requirements. Still, many Illinois programs offer a hybrid model with some online classes, giving you the flexibility to continue your education while still taking care of other responsibilities. To help you understand program requirements, curriculum, and more, we’ll explore three top LPN to RN bridge programs in Illinois, along with potential salaries and common FAQs.
Joliet Junior College
If you already have a valid LPN license in the state of Illinois, Joliet Junior College offers an LPN to Registered Nurse Transition Program with a hybrid model. It consists of three semesters of classroom instruction, clinical experience, and health facility simulations. After successfully completing the program, students receive an AAS degree and are eligible for the required NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for RN licensure. The program at Joliet Junior College is considered a rigorous program with 18 hours each week dedicated to lectures and clinicals as well as a recommended minimum of 20 hours dedicated to study and practice.
Duration: Three semesters
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $5,874 in-district (additional costs for out-of-district students)
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN in Illinois
- Nursing Program Entrance Exam, ATI-TEAS
- Physical exam, immunizations, negative TB test, annual flu vaccine
- BLS Healthcare Provider CPR card
- Background check and drug screening
- General education credits with a grade of C or better
- Transcripts
- CNA certificate
- Placement Test or ACT Scores
- Minimum 2.0 on prerequisites, general education, and recommended courses
Core Curriculum:
- LPN to ADN Transition Course
- Concepts of Nursing Fundamentals
- Concepts of Nursing
- Concepts of Maternal/Child Nursing
- Concepts of Behavioral Health Nursing
- Concepts of Nursing Leadership
- General education prerequisites (biology, communication, math English, psychology, etc.)
McHenry County College
McHenry County College offers an LPN to RN bridge program that’s approved by the Illinois Board of Nursing and the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation as well as the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). This is a blended program, consisting of both online and in-person classes with two weekdays spent on campus for lab and theory practice. In MCC’s program, aspiring RNs will study the role of the professional nurse and learn how to apply the core components of nursing to caring for their future patients.
Duration: Four semesters
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $4,010 in-district, $10,862 out-of-district, $15,270 out-of-state
Admissions Requirements:
- Current Illinois LPN license
- Prerequisite courses
- Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS)
- Transcripts
- GPA of 2.5 or better in general education and prerequisite courses.
- Grade of C or better in prerequisite courses
Core Curriculum:
- LPN to ADN Transition
- Concepts of Nursing Practice
- Concepts in Psychiatric Nursing
- Concepts in Family Nursing
- Complex Issues in Healthcare
- Nursing Leadership
Lincoln Land Community College
Located in Springfield, IL, Lincoln Land Community College offers a hybrid LPN to ADN transition program that’s accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Some classes are online, but in-person classroom and clinical time is required as well. Graduates of the program can take the NCLEX-RN examination and apply for licensure with the state. Lincoln Land Community College boasts a consistent student pass rate on the NCLEX-RN test of approximately 90%.
Duration: One year
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $9,692 in-district, $14,872 out-of-district
Admissions Requirements:
- Current LPN in Illinois
- Science courses completed with minimum C grade within last five years
- Drug screening, immunizations, and background check
- CPR certification
- One year of LPN employment
- Basic or higher score on TEAS test
- Transcripts
- Minimum GPA of 2.8 for all previous college courses
- Prerequisite courses
Core Curriculum:
- LPN to ADN Transition
- Nursing III
- Nursing IV
- Nursing Leadership
Answering Online LPN to RN Program FAQs
While the preceding information provides a solid overview of LPN to RN programs in Illinois, chances are you still have a lot of questions about how the programs work and what is required of you as a student. To make your journey a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.
How long are LPN to RN bridge programs?
The duration of LPN to RN bridge programs typically ranges from two to four semesters, though this timeline can fluctuate significantly based on individual circumstances. Several key elements influence the overall completion time, including whether a student enrolls full-time or part-time, the number of transferable credits from previous education, specific program requirements at different institutions, and the availability of clinical placement opportunities in the local area. Additionally, you may be able to find schools that offer accelerated LPN to RN programs or even programs without prerequisites. It’s important to research multiple programs, as the requirements and timeframes can vary considerably between educational institutions.
What are the admission requirements for LPN to RN programs in Illinois?
Most schools require a minimum GPA, valid LPN license, and completion of general education prerequisite courses for admission. Some require a pre-admission test to make sure applicants have the skills to handle the program’s coursework. Other programs will also require letters of reference or an admission essay.
What is the cost for LPN to RN programs?
The cost of an LPN to RN program depends on the cost per credit hour for tuition. Every school offers different tuition rates, so you’ll have to carefully research the specific programs you’re interested in. Some community colleges offer tuition as low as $4,000 a year, while other colleges have tuition as high as $23,000 a year. However, you can also select one of the online nursing programs that offer financial aid or scholarships, which can make paying for the program a little easier.
What should I look for in an LPN to RN program in Illinois?
There are several things you should look for in an LPN to RN program, including accreditation, experienced faculty, and high NCLEX-RN pass rates. Accreditation guarantees the quality of a program since accredited programs have to meet certain requirements. And when it comes to the NCLEX-RN, each school’s website will typically post the pass rates of their graduates. The higher the pass rate, the more confident you can feel in the program. It’s also worth researching the program’s faculty to see their education and workforce experience. Also ensure that whatever school you choose adequately prepares you for all RN licensure requirements.
What is the shortest LPN to RN bridge program?
LPN to RN bridge programs available usually take around 12 months to complete. However, some accelerated LPN to RN programs are available, although they may have additional prerequisites that you’ll have to meet before being admitted. Usually these programs take two semesters and require you to have your general education courses already completed. The goal of LPN to RN bridge programs is to quickly prepare current LPNs to become RNs, so most programs can be completed in a short amount of time.
Earnings and Careers: LPNs vs. RNs in Illinois
As you consider the path from LPN to RN, it’s important to know what you can expect after graduation day. Illinois RNs in the 10th percentile earn $63,900, while the median salary for LPNs is $62,600. Since entry-level RNs earn wages competitive with those of experienced LPNs, they can expect stronger long-term financial growth.
In Illinois, there’s a projected growth rate of 3.1% for RNs, which is lower than the national growth rate of 5.6%. The growth rate for LPNs is even lower, at 2.7%. However, Illinois is still projected to add 4,260 new RN jobs in the future. While both RNs and LPNs have modest growth rates, the higher demand and number of RN job openings make it the more stable choice for those interested in nursing careers. Dive into the following data to get a clearer idea of what the future holds as an RN.
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Illinois | $49,160 | $62,600 | $79,440 |
| Registered Nurses | Illinois | $63,900 | $82,470 | $105,140 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| Registered Nurses | Illinois | 138,050 | 142,310 | 4,260 | 3.10% | 7,960 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | Illinois | 18,960 | 19,480 | 520 | 2.70% | 1,510 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top Online LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Illinois
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,231 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of St Francis
- The LPN to ADN program at Saint Francis University offers flexible scheduling including part-time options and a mix of on-site classes, labs, and clinicals at partner sites to accommodate working professionals.
- LPNs receive credit for prior education, enabling them to complete their ADN degree in as little as three semesters, accelerating their path to becoming an RN.
- The program provides a supportive faculty committed to student success, alongside access to top-tier simulation labs and clinical placements that enhance practical skills and readiness for real-world nursing.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,231 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,168 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wabash Valley College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at IECC offers flexible course scheduling with evening and every-other-weekend classes, enabling students to maintain employment while studying.
- The program integrates distance-learning technology to enhance accessibility and flexibility for working LPNs seeking RN licensure.
- IECC has articulation agreements with several BSN completion programs, facilitating seamless credit transfer and educational advancement beyond the associate degree.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,168 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rend Lake College
- Rend Lake College’s LPN to RN Bridge program offers articulation agreements with multiple four-year universities, enabling seamless transfer to BSN completion programs.
- The program provides an accelerated bridge course allowing LPNs to enter the second year of the ADN program, shortening time to graduation.
- Faculty arrange diverse clinical practicums in hospitals, long-term care, and community settings, ensuring strong clinical placement opportunities supervised by qualified preceptors.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,941 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carl Sandburg College
- The Carl Sandburg College LPN to RN Bridge program offers a one-year completion option with an intensive summer transition course, enabling faster advancement to RN licensure.
- It provides cooperative agreements with several four-year universities for seamless credit transfer and pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), enhancing educational and career progression.
- The program features traditional face-to-face classroom instruction supplemented with online resources, supporting diverse learning preferences while maintaining strong academic rigor.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,941 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,178 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lake Land College
- LPN to RN Bridge students at Lakeland College benefit from advanced standing that credits prior LPN coursework, accelerating degree completion and reducing redundant classes.
- The program offers a robust, hands-on clinical experience with high-quality faculty known for preparing students for successful NCLEX-RN exam performance.
- Lakeland’s LPN to RN Bridge provides strong employer connections and practical training that enhance job readiness and nursing career advancement opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,178 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected John Wood Community College
- The JWCC LPN to RN Bridge program allows completion in just one year, offering an accelerated pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses to become Registered Nurses.
- The program provides courses tailored to build on LPN skills with a focus on advanced clinical reasoning, leadership, and complex health concepts essential for RN practice.
- JWCC’s nursing curriculum is designed to meet Illinois licensing requirements and facilitates seamless transfer options for further education toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Black Hawk College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program at Black Hawk College offers a specialized Nursing Bridge course that allows LPNs to receive credit for past clinical education, accelerating program readiness and progression into advanced courses.
- Students benefit from direct faculty approval and a structured evaluation process that includes clinical and academic prerequisites, ensuring tailored academic support and quality learning experiences.
- Graduates are eligible to apply for RN licensure in Wisconsin with available program coordinators to assist applicants facing licensure concerns, providing personalized guidance to overcome barriers to professional advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 36% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,922 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Sauk Valley Community College
- The SVCC LPN to RN Bridge program lets qualified LPNs complete the ADN clinical program in just one year instead of two, offering an accelerated pathway.
- Accepted students join a combined cohort across multiple locations, enhancing networking opportunities with peers from diverse nursing environments.
- The program requires completion of specific prerequisites and co-requisites with admissions preference given to those who complete them early, supporting a more focused and efficient progression through the curriculum.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,922 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,473 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Richland Community College
- The LPN to ADN Bridge Program at Richland Community College offers a selective, competitive admission process ensuring highly qualified cohorts with access limited by clinical faculty space for personalized clinical experiences.
- The program provides transfer credit for courses completed elsewhere, facilitating a smoother transition and credit recognition for prior nursing and prerequisite coursework to accelerate degree completion.
- Admission is supported by a structured, merit-based rubric scoring system that prioritizes applicants with the strongest academic records and prerequisites met, enhancing student success in the competitive nursing field.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,473 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,756 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kaskaskia College
- The LPN to RN Bridge program offers priority admission to qualified LPNs, enabling seamless advancement into the ADN program with a focused bridge course.
- Students benefit from a state-of-the-art simulation lab providing hands-on learning experiences that enhance clinical readiness before entering real healthcare settings.
- The program boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate of up to 95% and a 96% job placement rate, demonstrating strong career support and successful graduate outcomes.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $4,756 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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