ADN Programs Chicago, IL

Nurses must be caring and compassionate, capable of upholding the high ethical standards of the profession, and demonstrate excellent critical thinking skills. They must have good communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds and ages who may be vulnerable due to pain and uncertainty. 

The Associate Degree in Nursing provides a fast route to entry into nursing. The pre-licensure program is not as comprehensive as the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing, but it is rigorous and challenging. Students will acquire a foundational preparation in nursing theory and develop technical skills, clinical judgment, and critical thinking to provide safe and quality care and improve patient outcomes. The core requirements can be completed in just two years – students will need to complete the 8 to 12 semester credits of prerequisite courses beforehand. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates may apply for the Nursing Council Licensure Exam to become a Registered Nurse. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has the final say on candidates who are eligible to sit for the exam. 

City Colleges of Chicago – Malcolm X  

The A.A.S. degree in Nursing program at the City Colleges of Chicago is designed to prepare students to take the licensure exam for Registered Nurses. The emphasis will be on nursing theory and patient care techniques developed in the classroom and medical facilities in Chicago and environs. Students will learn communication, cultural sensitivity, informatics, safe practice, teamwork, complex health assessment, and teamwork. The clinical experiences are designed to support the application of the theoretical concepts covered in the classroom and are consistent with the standards of the Nurse Practice Act of Illinois. Graduates will be prepared for success on the licensure exam and employment in nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, physicians’ offices, schools, the military, and public health. Acceptance into the program is competitive – candidates must first obtain entry to CCC through a separate admissions process. 

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 69 

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – English 101, Biology 121, Chemistry 121, Math 118 

Core Courses – Human Structure and Function I, Human Structure and Function II, General Microbiology, Fundamentals of Nursing, Introduction to Medical-Surgical Nursing, Nursing Leadership, Intermediate Medical Surgical Nursing, Maternal-Newborn/Mental Health Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Gerontologic Nursing, Advanced Medical Surgical Nursing 

Admission criteria:  

  • Meet the requirements for general admission to the CCC 
  • Provide proof of completing Certified Nursing Assistant certification prior to or at the time of application to the program  
  • Complete the nursing prerequisites at any of the City Colleges of Chicago  
  • Attend a program information session  
  • Submit official high school or GED transcript to the Office of the Registrar at 
  • Submit official college transcripts to the Registrar  
  • Calculate admissions cumulative GPA – must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 for the program  
  • Complete and pass the ATI TEAS exam  
  • Review the Nursing Student Handbook 

Program Cost: 

Tuition for the program is $2,429 for in-district students. Additional expenses include fees, uniforms, textbooks, liability insurance, immunization, background check, and ATI testing. 

  • Website: https://www.ccc.edu/  
  • Address: 1900 W. Jackson, Chicago, IL 60612 
  • Phone: (312) 850-7000 
  • NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87% 

College of DuPage 

The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at the College of DuPage (COD) admits adults in the fall semester and prepares them academically and clinically for a career as a Registered Professional Nurse. Students will learn how to care for patients with acute or chronic illnesses in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, patients’ homes, and physicians’ offices. The program operates with the approval of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation/Board of Nursing and the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). It is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc (ACEN). 

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 77 

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, General Psychology, General Chemistry, Mathematics for Health Sciences  

Core Courses – Role of the Nurse I, Physical Assessment, Pathophysiology, Introduction to Core Concepts, Foundations of Pharmacology, Microbiology, Health and Illness Concepts I, Family Health Concepts I, English Composition I, Developmental Psychology: The Life Span, Health and Illness Concepts II, Family Health Concepts II, Pharmacology and Disease Processes, Fundamentals of Speech Communications OR Small-group Communication, Complex Health Concepts, Role of the Nurse II, Clinical Decision Making Practicum 

Admission criteria:  

  • Attend an ADN advising session within the application cycle  
  • Complete the online Application to the College of DuPage and pay the non-refundable application fee of $20  
  • Turn in all official transcripts from all institutions attended – transcripts must be submitted to the Office of Student Records  
  • Submit the Health Sciences Limited Enrollment Program Application online and pay the non-refundable fee of $50 
  • Complete the COD Residency Verification form and provide two proofs of residency to the Office of Student Registration Services  
  • Complete the prerequisite courses prior to the deadline. The courses must be completed with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Prerequisite courses include Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Psychology, and Math  
  • Take and pass the HESI (A2) exam – information on the test is available to the COD Testing Center. Tests are available by appointment only 
  • Provide proof of completing an approved Illinois Department of Public Health Certified Nursing Assistant program. 

Program Cost: 

The estimated total cost of attendance is $19,401.22. The cost includes the college application fee, nursing program application fee, HESI A2 assessment exam, tuition, uniform, textbooks, criminal background check, health requirements, fees, student lab kit, fingerprinting, and licensure exam cost. 

  • Website: https://www.cod.edu/  
  • Address: 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn IL, 60137 
  • Phone: (630) 942-2800 
  • NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83% 

Harper College 

Highly trained faculty members will guide nursing students through nursing concepts and support development of the skills through the use to technology, advanced teaching methods, and clinical experiences. Students will practice nursing skills in the school’s nursing laboratory before engaging in patient care during the clinical rotation. They will learn how to provide holistic care for diverse populations, use critical thinking to improve patient outcomes, communicate effectively with patients and team members, comply with federal and state legal and ethical standards for nursing practice, collaborate with health professionals to promote restoration of health, and commit to lifelong learning. Graduates will receive an Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing and be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN to apply for RN licensure in Illinois. Admission to the limited-enrollment program is competitive. 

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 68 

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Composition, Introduction to PsychologCore Courses – Microbiology, Nursing Concepts, Roles and Practice, Fundamentals of Nursing, Pathophysiology, Psychology of Human of Human Development, Advanced Pharmacology, Adult Health Concepts I, Adult Health Clinical I, Psychosocial Concepts, Psychosocial Concepts Clinical, Physical Assessment, Transition to Professional Nursing, Transition to Professional Nursing Clinical, Child Bearing Concepts, Adult Health Concepts II, Pediatric Health Concepts, Child Bearing Clinical, Adult Health Clinical II, Pediatric Health Clinical, Fundamentals of Speech Communication, Adult Health Concepts III, Role Transition Seminar, Adult Health Clinical III, Role Transition Practicum, Social and Behavioral Science or Humanities 

Admission criteria:  

  • Apply to Harper College  
  • Attend the Health Care Careers Information Meeting  
  • Review the program and policy information  
  • Review and meet the health requirements  
  • Submit the Nursing Application to the Health Careers Division Office  
  • Complete the NLN Pre-Admission RN Exam and meet the minimum scores – scores are valid for three years  
  • Request high school transcript or GED results to be sent directly from the institution to Harper College  
  • Request official college transcripts to the sent to Harper College  
  • Provide proof of passing the CNA registry exam and having current active status on the Illinois CNA Registry  
  • Complete the prerequisite courses with a minimum 2.0 GPA – English Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Chemistry, Human Anatomy, and Human Physiology  
  • Demonstrate competency in Harper’s Intermediate Algebra  

Program costs:                                                                                                      

Tuition for in-state students is $135.50 per credit. Due to the clinical experiences, specialized technology, equipment, and individual instruction, tuition for the courses with the NUR prefix will be assessed at 200 percent of the standard tuition rate. Nursing students must also budget for textbooks, uniforms, transportation to the clinical sites, nursing supplies, insurance, TB test, background check, and other related costs. 

Ambria College of Nursing 

The straight, traditional nursing program at Ambria College of Nursing prepares students employment as a Registered Professional Nurse. The program adheres to the state requirements and recommendations for the theory and clinical components of the program. Students will acquire the knowledge and skills to function as a leader, manager, teacher, supervisor, counselor, communicator, and caregiver. The curriculum includes a blend of academic and practical courses geared to help students function within the code of ethics for the profession, use verbal and written communication, use nursing research in evidence-based practice, apply concepts of cultural competence in practice, and commit to continuous learning. Graduates will receive an Associates of Applied Science in Nursing and be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN for licensure by the state of Illinois. 

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 50 plus transfer credits and prerequisites  

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – English Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, General Microbiology, Life Span Psychology, Introduction to Speech, Introduction to Sociology 

Core Courses – Academic Success Seminar, Pharmacology, Foundations of Nursing, Pathophysiology, Nursing Health Assessment, Nutrition, Advanced Nursing Skills, Psychiatric Nursing, Adult Health Nursing I, Adult Health Nursing II, Maternity Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Leadership and Management, Capstone 

Admission criteria:  

  • Submit a completed application  
  • Complete FAFSA 
  • Submit a copy of driver’s license and social security card 
  • Submit official transcripts for high school or GED results  
  • Submit official transcripts from colleges attended  
  • Complete the TEAS exam with a minimum score of 60% 
  • Achieve a score of 70% or higher on the Reading and 75% or higher on the Math components of the TEAS 
  • Complete the prerequisites or equivalent  
  • Provide proof of valid CNA license in Illinois  
  • Attend an interview during the selection process  
  • Sign the Enrollment Agreement 
  • Attend a Clinical Workshop 
  • Obtain and submit Castle Branch results before the specified deadline  
  • Meet the clinical health requirements  
  • Attend New Student Orientation 

Program costs:  

Tuition for 50 credits is $30,000. There is a one-time fee of $450 that includes the application fee, uniform, nursing lab kit, and background check. Additional costs include textbooks, student services fee, and standardized exam fees. 

Morton College 

Morton College’s Associate Degree Nursing Program seeks to give students a foundation in nursing that embraces scientific and humanistic reasoning. The rigorous program will incorporate active learning and general education course to encourage professional and personal growth. Graduates will be competent professionals capable of providing care for diverse patient populations in a variety of healthcare settings. Admissions open in the fall semester. Admission is competitive – candidates will receive points based on grades earned in the general education courses. 

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 71  

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – English Composition, Introduction to Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, General Microbiology, Life Span Psychology, Introduction to Speech, Introduction to Sociology 

Core Courses – Foundations of Nursing I, Foundations of Nursing II, Anatomy and Physiology II, Mental Health Nursing, Nursing Care of the Childbearing Family, Nursing Care of the Child and Family, Life Span of Human Development, Medical Surgical Nursing I, Microbiology, Rhetoric II, Medical Surgical Nursing II, Nursing Synthesis, Humanities 

Admission criteria:  

  • Submit an application to Morton College  
  • Submit a separate application to the Nursing Program  
  • Request official high school transcript to be sent to the school’s Registrar  
  • Attend a mandatory Nursing Informational Session  
  • Take and pass the HESI A2 exam with a minimum score of 225 out of 300 
  • Submit transcript for the prerequisite courses indicating a grade of C or better – 12 college credits  
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.5 on nursing general education courses 

Program costs:                                                                                                      

Tuition costs $130 per credit for in-district residents plus fees. Additional expenses include nursing program acceptance fee, titers/immunizations, background check, 10-panel drug screen, yearly physical exam, CPR certification, supplies, uniforms, textbooks, specialty exams, and graduation fees. 

Oakton College  

The nursing degree program at Oakton College is backed by experienced faculty, a rigorous curriculum, and a commitment to students’ success. Students meet on campus for classroom and lab sessions in the  state-of-the-art nursing simulation hospital and nursing classrooms. Clinical experiences are conducted at renowned affiliates to support students’ learning efforts on campus. Graduates will receive an associate degree in nursing and will be eligible to sit for the licensure exam for registered nurses. They will also qualify for transfer to an RN to BSN program to complete the bachelor of science in nursing.  

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 67.5 

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – English Composition I, English Composition II, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II 

Core Courses – Human Development, Microbiology, Nursing Concepts 1A, Nursing Concepts 1B, Nursing Concepts 2A Maternal Child, Nursing Concepts 2B Chronic Illness, Nursing Pharmacology 1, Nursing Pharmacology 2, Nursing Concepts 3, Nursing Pharmacology 3, Nursing Concepts 4A, Nursing Concepts 4B 

Admission criteria:  

  • Must have graduated from high school or have a high school equivalency certificate  
  • Submit official high school and all college transcripts  
  • Submit ACT or SAT scores or have at least 12 college credits 
  • Complete the prerequisite courses with a grade C or better – chemistry or high school chemistry, human anatomy and physiology, English composition, MATH 070  
  • Submit HESI scores (taken within the last two years) – cumulative score of 85%, Math 75%, Science 80%, English 80% 
  • Must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher  
  • Must have completed basic nurse aide training and have current certification  
  • Must have completed a physical exam  
  • Must provide proof of health insurance  
  • Must pass a criminal background check and drug screen  

Program costs:                                                                                                      

Tuition costs $136.25 per credit for in-district residents plus fees. Students must cover costs for textbooks and supplies. 

Triton College  

Triton’s Nursing Program provides students with the knowledge and skills to prepare for entry-level employment as a registered nurse. The program provides basic knowledge of nursing theory and practice, humanities, and social and biological sciences. Students will learn theoretical concepts in the classroom and develop skills in the simulation center. They will participate in clinical experiences conducted at various health care settings. Graduates earn an Associate in Applied Science degree and will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX for the registered nurse.  

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 60  

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – Freshman Rhetoric and Composition, Algebra, Certified Nursing Assistant, Chemistry, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Introduction to Psychology 

Core Courses – Drug Calculations, Principles of Microbiology, Intro to Human Pathophysiology, Nursing Concepts and Practice, Intro to Nursing Roles, Nursing Roles Clinical, Physical Assessment, Pharmacology and Drug Administration, Human Growth and Development, Adult Health Concepts, Adult Health Clinical, Adult Health Concepts II, Adult Health Clinical II, Communications Gen-Ed, Mental Health Concepts, Mental Health Clinical, Pediatrics Health Concepts, Pediatric Concepts Clinical, Introduction to Sociology, Comprehensive Medical Ethics, Adult Health Concepts III, Adult Health Clinical III, Leadership and Role Transition Concepts, Leadership and Role Transition Concepts Clinical, Exit Seminar  

Admission criteria:  

  • Submit an application to Triton College  
  • Must submit applicable transcripts – high school and college  
  • Must take and pass placement exams or demonstrate equivalency  
  • Must attend a new student orientation  
  • Must have completed CNA training and certification  
  • Must submit an application to the nursing program  
  • Submit transcript for the prerequisite courses indicating a grade of C or better 
  • Must have a minimum GPA of 2.0  

Program costs:                                                                                                      

Tuition costs $148 per credit for in-district residents plus fees. Other costs for fees, books, and supplies will apply. 

  • Website: https://www.triton.edu/  
  • Address: 2000 Fifth Ave, River Grove, IL 60171  
  • Phone: 708.456.0300  
  • NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 45%  

Prairie State College  

The registered nursing program at Prairie State College leads to an associate degree in nursing. The program meets the state education requirements for an entry-level nursing license in the state of Illinois. The curriculum combines courses in general and nursing education in the classroom. Students will also participate in selected learning experiences in hospitals and health agencies. Graduates will receive an Associate in Applied Science degree and may apply to take the NCLEX-RN examination for licensure as a registered nurse. 

Program Outline 

Semester credits: 64 

Duration: 24 months 

Course titles:  

Prerequisite courses – English Composition, Principles of Communication, Introduction to Psychology, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Algebra, General Microbiology, Life Span Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, Human Growth and Development  

Core Courses – Microbiology, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Basic Care Concepts, Acute Care Concepts, Nursing As A Profession, Family Care Concepts, Advanced Care Concepts, Preparation for Professional Nursing  

Admission criteria:  

  • Submit an application to Prairie State College  
  • Submit a separate application to the Nursing Program  
  • Submit transcripts with application – high school and college transcripts  
  • Attend a nursing information session  
  • Take and pass the entrance exam  
  • Complete the prerequisite courses with a grade C or better  
  • Complete a satisfactory criminal background check and drug  
  • Must provide proof of health insurance  
  • Must submit record of current immunization  
  • Must complete NURS 100 Nurse Assistant Training (7) with a grade of C or better or demonstrate current status on the Illinois Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Registry 

Program costs:                                                                                                      

Tuition costs $174 per credit for in-district residents plus fees. Other costs for fees, books, and supplies will apply.  

How Much Does an ADN Nurse Make in Chicago?   

A registered nurse holding an associate degree in nursing in Chicago can earn $67,344 at the entry level. ADNs with some experience earn 15 to 20 percent more than the average starting rate. BSN nurses earn more than ADN nurses depending on the place of work and position held. BSNs who hold supervisory positions in Chicago can earn upwards of $105,435.  

How Long is the ADN in Illinois?   

The ADN program may be completed in 18 to 24 months.   

What Is the Easiest Nursing Program to Get into In Chicago?   

All colleges offering the ADN nursing program require completion of prerequisite coursework including basic nurse assistant training. Some colleges require submission of ACT or SAT scores and placement testing for entry. Based on a side-by-side comparison of published admission requirements, Oakton College and Morton Colleges both accept basic requirements for entry.  

How Much Does an ADN Cost in Illinois?  

You can reduce your total cost of tuition by enrolling in a public college within your district. With tuition rates below $180 per credit at most public schools, you can complete an associate degree in nursing for less than $11,000. While private colleges offer some advantages, the total cost of attendance is upwards of $92,000.  

How Do I Become a Registered Nurse in Illinois?    

To become a registered nurse in Illinois, you must complete an accredited ADN or BSN pre-licensure nursing program and take and pass the NCLEX for a registered nurse. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation issues the RN license to qualifying candidates. A clear background check and drug screen and passing score on the NCLEX are some requirements for receiving a license. Check out this page for full details on obtaining your RN license in Illinois.  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.