[DespSeekingNursing]

I'd like to know from nurses if it's worth it to start at the LPN. Getting into ADN programs in Illinois is (IMO) damn near impossible. I have a BA degree in business all my adn pre reqs a reasonable GPA and a super high science/math GPA, CNA for a year etc but I still haven't gotten in. I'm trying to research as much as possible about LPN programs but is it worth it? I've heart a few snide comments here and there but also a lot of good....I plan to do a bridge to RN ASAP when I pass my NCLEX-LPN...but is it worth it? My ultimate goal is to become a Midwife (uh yeah I'm a long way away).....should I just keep applying to ADN or jump on this LPN program (at PCCTI) that has surfaced and go from there? Any and all comments are welcome - I can take it!! TIA!

[rdl2881]

Have you thought about getting your BSN? Most schools offering a BSN do not have a waiting list. I think there are a few schools that even offer a bridge program for students who already have their bachelor's in something else.

[DespSeekingNursing]

I have, and I actually was accepted to Lewis but the tuition is just so high. I can't see having another 40K in student loans before I know what I want to be when I grow up. That's why I was hoping to do an LPN- and bridge to RN. Then when I have a full time job look into RN-MSN finishing programs.

[rdl2881]

Well, the LPN is 15,000 and then the bridge is going to be at least that, so it is almost the same(at least that's how my thinking is). I am thinking of going to Lewis for my BSN in the fall.

[DespSeekingNursing]

From what I was told on the phone this week is that the bridge to RN is a long way away- like 3-4 years. I'd be bridging to JJC or Moraine so the cost would only be around 2K.

[rdl2881]

In that case, it may be worth it if you want to work right away. I liked PCCTI and the program but I just don't want to take a private loan for 15,000.

Good luck!

[KarmaInMotion]

If you're having a hard time getting in and you will be using it as a tool to get in quicker, then maybe you should just go ahead. From the people I have contact with though, just don't get stuck as an LPN if your goal is RN. I don't mean that in a bad way either. I just have heard of LPNs struggling to get the time management to keep going forward. Also I have a realative that recently became an LPN and another that more recently certified to be an MA. And they talk about how they notice a trend of LPNs being phased out for MAs. Just something to keep in mind. Also, JJC has recently changed its entrance policy and they have gotten rid of their wait list. If you have a specific school in mind too, get more details. I think having pre and coreqs both done helped me too... just another thought. the best to you!

[ALLYCAT4]

HI..
I have heard this too about LPN's being replaced by MA's.. but when I look into LTC...they always hire the LPN's. I think the person I spoke to about the MA program was Everest and they said that NWest hospital hires the MA.. The career u choose LPN or MA ..u need to do deep investigating on employment production. Also as for now most Comm. Colleges do a bridge program. So if ur gonna do this LPn and be done by next fall then u can try to bridge while working. But if ur gonna do the BSN u wont be working at all unil 3-4yrs. (thats my thinking). Everyone has different views based on their lifestyles. So whatever fits urs is what u should do.
I am surprised also that since this forum was started we haven't heard from 1 actual LPN. I wish they would give us their straight out opinion of regrets or no regrets from the state of ILL> Maybe try the LPN or LVn forum...maybe u get better replies.
I totally understand how u feel on which route of ur nursing career u should take. I am in the transition of taking my AP over cuz its over 5 yrs old. I am still banging my head on making that decision too. Ur not alone but I am guessing that u will find employment either way as a LPN or MA but u can't bridge as MA to RN. At least not in the state of ILL if I am correct. U will find ur way..
take care...

[healthyhere]

I believe the last comment was best advice...
time is a big factor when deciding to start as an LPN! As you stated, you can begin work (and YES, you'll find work, i see ad's for lpn's all the time!) and start making a little cash while then enrolling in a bridge program.
Time is a huge factor.
Speaking of which... im curious, is there anyone who can give a few options on different LPN programs starting (no long waits) in the city perhaps?
Or atleast where one could go to obtain this info, if not here?
Thanks much everyone

And good luck

[rdl2881]

PCCTI has a location in Chicago as well as Oak Brook. Not sure when the classes are starting though.

I think you will be able to find work as an LPN. It really is just a matter of how quick you need to work. I would have gone into the LPN program and then a bridge, but I just don't want to take out a personal loan. I would rather do the FAFSA and such at a degree granting school.