The bustling city of Chicago has plenty of employment and education opportunities in the nursing field. There are more than 25 schools offering a wide variety of programs for nurses at all levels. Deciding which type of nursing program you want to pursue is one of the most important considerations. Below you can read brief descriptions about the main types of nurses and the opportunities available for each in Chicago.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
If you are a naturally caring and social person, a career as a certified nursing assistant could be for you. CNAs provide basic frontline healthcare that aids patients with daily necessities like bathing and eating. CNA programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and they can be completed in a matter of weeks. There are approximately 50,000 nursing assistants in Chicago, and the demand for qualified CNAs is projected to grow in the years ahead. Some of the main employers of CNAs in Chicago include Tenet Health, Sinai Health System, and Northwest Community Hospital.
Licensed practical nurses provide for their patients’ overall well-being, and they often supervise nursing assistants in doing so. LPN programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and generally require 12 to 18 months to complete. As an LPN in Chicago, you could expect to earn around $45,000 per year.
Registered nurse (RN)
Registered nursing is a good choice for those who are natural leaders. As an RN, you would manage a team of other nurses and medical support staff in planning, implementing, and assessing individualized patient care. In Chicago, there are over 20 schools offering pre-licensure programs for RNs, including the City Colleges of Chicago, Chicago State University, and University of Illinois Chicago.
Regardless of which career path you choose, there are plenty of opportunities in Chicago and the surrounding areas. If you want to learn more about launching a nursing career in Chicago, check out the below list of nursing programs in the area.