Iliinois requirements ABSN?AMSN?

[portsmom]

Hi all, I've been cruising this great site for months now trying to get the inside track on what I'm getting myself into. I am moving back to CHicago and want to get going on a RN degree...I have a BS in History, was an EMT (expired now) and cannot figure out what's the best trac? I want to get working asap, but would also go on eventually for a MSN. Should I go for the ABSN, work and try to get tuition reimbursement later to go for the MSN?

I'm a single mom of 2 and would have to work/take loans etc.

Does Illinois have a requirement to have CNA before nursing school?

Any good school picks? Looking at UIC,& Depaul...any others?

ALso, where;s a good place to get CNA?

Anyone heared of a hospital paying your way thru school if you sign up to work for them?

Eager to learn...thanks!

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

Since your questions are so specific to Illinois you should really post your question in the Illinois Nurses Forum on this website. You're likely to get better response.

http://www.nurseaidetesting.com/ - this is the site of the official Illinois Nurse Aide Registry Testing website. By clicking on "Training Programs" you will be able to find CNA training programs near where you live and other information about becoming a CNA.

http://www.lopez1.com/lopez/nursingschools/illinois.schools.of.nursing.htm - this is the best I could do in finding a list of the nursing schools in Illinois. You can also call the Illinois Board of Nursing to get a official list of aproved schools of nursing.