Practical Nursing is a Certificate program offered by Rockford Career College in Rockford, IL. Tuition is $31,547 total.
Program Overview
Practical Nursing
For those drawn to a hands-on role in healthcare, Rockford Career College’s Practical Nursing Diploma Program offers a rigorous, career-focused education designed to prepare you for licensure and real-world practice. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are vital to the healthcare system, delivering direct patient care and supporting health teams in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, and rehabilitation facilities.
Students gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to support patients across all stages of life, from pediatrics to gerontology. The curriculum is designed to build both technical competence and critical thinking, qualities essential to working in dynamic, high-demand healthcare settings.
Whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey or seeking a new direction, Rockford’s program is structured to support your growth from the classroom to clinical practice. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam and pursue licensure as a Practical Nurse.
What sets this Program apart
For Over 140 Years, Rockford Has Worked for Students, Families, and the Community
At Rockford Career College, we believe education should be practical, personal, and purpose-driven. That’s why our career-focused training programs are built around one goal—
helping you get the skills you need to succeed in today’s workforce. Whether you want to care for animals, work in healthcare, start a skilled trade, or explore online business and legal programs,
Rockford is here to help you get to work.
Built to Help You Succeed
Whether you’re just starting out or returning to school to change careers, Rockford Career College is committed to helping you achieve your goals. From your first campus visit to your job search after graduation, we’re here to support your growth with compassion, expertise, and experience.
General Requirements
- Complete Your ApplicationWe can make filling out your application easy!
- Collect Your PaperworkLet’s gather your transcripts where necessary from previous institutions, to tailor our programs to your specific needs and goals.
- Test For Placement!Don’t worry, it’s just a test! We require prospective students to take a placement test, enabling us to assess your current skill level and determine suitable…
- Talk to Financial AidOur knowledgeable financial aid team assists you in securing grants, loans, and scholarships to make quality education affordable.
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Program Schedule
DURATION
14 Months
CREDENTIALS:Diploma
FORMAT:Hybrid – On-Campus/Online/Clinical Rotations
CREDITS:79 quarter credit hours
Campus Location
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Financial Aid / Student Accounts / Consumer Disclosures
Financial aid resources are available to those who qualify. Interested applicants should set up an appointment with one of our friendly and knowledgeable financial aid administrators by calling 815-965-8616 or emailing: famanagement@rockfordcareercollege.edu
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
The Rockford Career College Financial Aid Office will provide the following information:
- Financial Aid assistance including information on all federal, state and institutional financial aid programs.
- Deadlines for submitting applications for each financial aid program.
- Details regarding cost of attendance.
- Resources considered in the calculation of financial need and unmet need.
- Expected disbursement dates of financial aid.
- Refund and Return to Title IV financial aid policies.
- The regulations governing federal financial assistance programs are subject to change by the federal government. The Rockford Carer College Financial Aid Office has the most recent information.
Types Of Financial Aid
- Grants: A grant is based on financial need and does not need to be repaid if the student completes all requirements. This includes the Federal Pell Grant and FSEOG.
- Loans: Low-interest Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to those who qualify. Direct PLUS loans are available for parents of Dependent students who qualify.
- For more information on types of grants and loans available, refer to https://studentaid.gov/
Affording VET TECH Training
Worried about how to afford veterinary technician training? Let us help! Our friendly financial aid team is here to help you explore funding, scholarships, and grants to help make Rockford fit your budget.
Curriculum
What You’ll Learn
- Core Nursing Skills & Patient Care: Learn foundational clinical skills like assessments, hygiene, infection control, and safe nursing techniques.
- Medical-Surgical, Maternal-Child, and Long-Term Care: Provide care to patients across different life stages and health needs, from post-surgical support to elder care.
- Pharmacology & Medication Safety: Understand drug classifications, calculate dosages, and administer medications responsibly and accurately.
- Health Sciences & Ethics: Study human anatomy, physiology, and nutrition while exploring the ethical and legal responsibilities of nursing professionals.
- Communication & Professionalism: Build strong communication skills to work effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
- Clinical Experience: Apply your knowledge through supervised clinical rotations in real healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
Career Outcomes
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in Illinois for Licensed Practical Nurses is expected to increase by 6% between 2021 and 2031.1
What to expect as a Rockford Career College student
Q: Can I choose where I complete my clinicals?
Clinicals are coordinated through the college with trusted partner sites. While student preferences are considered when possible, placements are based on availability and learning needs.
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