Online ADN Programs in Illinois: Top Schools Compared
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or an LPN ready to move up the ladder, earning your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can prepare you for the NCLEX-RN exam and launch an exciting new career in healthcare. This guide introduces some of the top online ADN programs in Illinois and provides insight into program features, costs, certification steps, and more.
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
HealthcarePre-NursingNursing
HealthcareNursingAdv NursingWhy Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.
Jump To Section
Popular Online ADN Programs in Illinois
Online Associate Degree in Nursing programs offer a convenient path to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Coursework is often delivered fully or mostly online, with clinicals taking place in person. But how do you find the right program for you if you live in Illinois?
There are several factors to consider when choosing an online ADN program in Illinois:
- Proper accreditation
- NCLEX pass rates
- Clinical placement opportunities
- Strong student support services
- High job placement rates
To help you take the next step, we’ve spotlighted three popular online ADN programs in Illinois available today.
John A. Logan College
Some online ADN programs in Illinois are LPN to ADN programs, which are designed to prepare current licensed practical nurses for advancement into registered nurse roles. One such program is this Nursing (ADN) Hybrid Online: Full-Time Program offered by John A. Logan College.
The course of study builds on the student’s practical nursing education, focusing on advanced study in subjects such as:
- Communications
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Nutrition
- Critical nursing skills and processes
The curriculum aligns with the Illinois Nurse Practice Act and fosters lifelong learning and professional development.
This hybrid-formatted, four-semester, full-time program combines online course content with weekly campus-based lab sessions and hands-on clinical experiences at local healthcare facilities. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, enabling licensure as registered nurses in Illinois and throughout the United States.
Duration: 4 semesters (67 credit hours)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $160.00/credit hour (in-district)
Admissions Requirements:
- Must have an active Illinois LPN license
- Completion of an approved practical nursing program
- Passing score on the TEAS pre-entrance exam
Curriculum:
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or CPR Recertification
- ADN Orientation
- Microbiology
- General, Organic and Biochemistry
- Intro to Conceptual Framework
- Respiratory Nursing Interventions
- Metabolic/Endocrine Nursing Interventions
- Psychiatric Nursing Interventions
- Obstetrical Nursing Interventions
- Ortho/Derm Nursing Interventions
- Neuro/Sensory Nursing Interventions
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Nursing Interventions
- GI/GU Nursing Interventions
- Pediatric Nursing Interventions
- Nursing Leadership Today & Tomorrow
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Parkland College
Parkland College’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful career as a registered nurse. The program balances online (some general education coursework and one fully-online and one partially-online nursing course) and campus-based classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and clinical practicums at local healthcare facilities.
Parkland’s ADN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters), full-time
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $268/credit hour, nursing courses; $186/credit hour, non-nursing courses (in-district residents)
Admissions Requirements:
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Selective admissions score of 2.75 or higher
Curriculum:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Nursing Health Assessment
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Introduction to Medication Principles for Nurses
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Maternal-Newborn Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Leadership in Nursing
- Population Health Nursing
- Additional general education coursework
Full curriculum can be accessed from program webpage.
Rasmussen University
Rasmussen University is a private, for-profit college that offers its online ADN/RN program at 16 campuses across five states, including four campuses in Illinois. The 102-credit hybrid program blends campus-based and online learning with in-person clinical rotations and can be completed just 21 months.
With no prerequisite coursework and four start dates throughout the year, Rasmussen offers significant study convenience and flexibility to students. The school also prioritizes affordability, accepting FAFSA and partnering with various employers to offer reduced program fees to their employees.
Duration: 21 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $54,551 (total est. tuition and fees)
Admissions Requirements:
- No prerequisite coursework for admission into the program
- High school verification documentation may be required
- Must pass the TEAS exam
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Nursing
- Pathophysiology
- Physical Assessment
- Nursing Care of the Older Adult
- Professional Nursing Skills
- Multidimensional Care
- Mental and Behavioral Health Nursing
- Pharmacology
- Maternal-Child Nursing
- Leadership and Professional Identity
- ADN Capstone
- Additional general education coursework
Full-curriculum information can be accessed from the program webpage.
FAQs About Online ADN Programs in Illinois
As you explore your online ADN program options, you’re bound to come up with several questions of your own. To help get you out in that regard, here are the answers to five of the most commonly-asked questions by prospective Illinois online ADN students.
How long do Illinois ADN programs take to complete?
The lengths of online ADN programs in Illinois vary from school to school, with most completed in around two years of full-time study.
Factors that can impact program length include the student’s chosen study pace (full-time or part-time) and the number of previously-earned credits that can be transferred into the ADN program. For example, students with credits earned in a previously-completed LVN program may be able to substantially shorten their total ADN completion time.
How much do online associate nursing programs cost in Illinois?
The costs of Illinois-based online ADN programs also vary from school to school. There are several factors that can impact costs, the two biggest being:
- Whether the school offering the program is public or private. Private schools often charge significantly higher tuition rates.
- For public schools, whether a student is an in-district, in-state, or out-of-state resident. Higher tuition rates are often charged to out-of-district students.
Keep in mind that many students will be able to lower their total education price tags by obtaining funding help through any of a number of financial aid resources. More on that below.
Are there any certification and licensure requirements in IL?
As in all states, practice as a registered nurse in Illinois requires obtaining a state-issued RN license. Major requirements for licensure include:
- Graduation from a State-approved nursing program (like any of the ADN programs discussed in this guide.)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Completion of a fingerprint-based background check
- Paying all required license fees
Details on licensure requirements can be found on this IDFPR Board of Nursing website.
Illinois is also one of several states that requires nurses to earn continuing education (CE) credits to renew their RN licenses. License renewal and continuing education requirements information can be found here.
Is financial aid available to help me fund my ADN program in Illinois?
Absolutely, if you qualify. Financial aid for online nursing programs is available in a number of forms, the most common including:
- Scholarships and grants
- Work-study programs
- Employer tuition reimbursement
- Student loans
- Tuition discounts
- Tuition installment and deferment options
- Student loans
The best place to start your search for help in funding your ADN education is with the financial aid offices at each of the schools you’re considering. They’ll be able to fill you in on all of the most recent internal and external resources available.
Are there any resources to support ADN students in Illinois?
Applying to, completing, and finding work after nursing school can be challenging. Fortunately, there are tons of resources out there providing support to Illinois nursing professionals and students, including:
- American Nurses Association Illinois (ANA) – State affiliate of the American Nurses Association, the ANA Illinois is the preeminent organization of registered nurses working in the state. The group hosts quarterly meetings along with numerous other events throughout the year, as well as offers educational resources and awards for nurses and nursing students.
- IDFPR Registered Nurse New Applicant Checklist – The IDFPR provides this helpful checklist for obtaining state RN licensure that includes application instructions and information on qualifications, fee structures, getting fingerprints for their required background check, and more.
- INWC Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Grants – This Illinois Nursing Workforce Center website offers detailed information and application links for a range of financial aid resources for student nurses, including several Illinois-specific grants and scholarships.
- Illinois Nurses Foundation Scholarships – One of the primary goals of the Illinois Nurses Foundation is to award scholarships to new and returning nursing students. Links and details on how to apply are listed on the website.
- Student Nurses Association of Illinois (SNAI) – Operated by and for student nurses, the SNAI offers a variety of resources in support of Illinois nursing students, including education and networking events, and access to Imprint, the National Student Nurses’ Association’s bi-monthly magazine.
ADN Nurses in Illinois: Salary & Career Prospects
RNs in Illinois earn competitive salaries, with the state average as of May 2024 at $91,130 per year, according to the BLS. Salaries can vary substantially by region, with RNs in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area, for example, earning an average of $94,580 annually, while those in the Davenport-Moline-Rock Island area earned an average of $75,870.
ADN graduates often begin their RN careers as staff nurses, focusing on direct patient care, medication administration, and collaboration with healthcare teams. These roles provide critical experience and serve as a foundation for career advancement.
In comparison, BSN-prepared nurses generally earn higher salaries, have greater access to healthcare leadership positions, and may specialize their nursing practice in areas like pediatrics or critical care.
Other factors impacting earnings include the specific employer and job requirements, and nurse's level of professional experience.
Overall, the job growth prospects for Illinois RNs fall generally in line with those for all occupations overall. The BLS's Projections Central website forecasts a job growth rate for RNs in the state (2022-2032) of 3.1%, somewhat lower than the 5.6% projected for RNs nationwide.
Ranking the Top Online ADN Programs in Illinois
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,465 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Olney Central College
- The IECC ADN program offers a nursing apprenticeship that covers tuition, fees, books, and uniforms while students earn an hourly wage and ensures full-time nursing employment upon graduation.
- The program boasts a 98% graduate employment rate within six months, demonstrating strong job placement success for ADN graduates.
- IECC’s ADN program features experienced, knowledgeable, and diverse faculty who serve as educators, advisors, role models, and advocates to support student success.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,465 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,168 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wabash Valley College
- The IECC ADN program offers a nursing apprenticeship with Clay County Hospital, providing full tuition, fees, books, and uniforms paid plus an hourly wage, culminating in guaranteed full-time employment after graduation and licensure.
- Students benefit from clinical placements integrated into a supportive and evidence-based curriculum guided by experienced, knowledgeable, and diverse faculty committed to student success.
- The program provides educational mobility options allowing students to exit early with a Practical Nursing certificate or continue for RN licensure, supporting flexible and accelerated career pathways.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,168 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Rend Lake College
- Rend Lake College’s ADN program offers an accelerated Bachelor of Nursing track in partnership with Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, allowing students to begin working while completing their BSN online.
- The program features an LPN to RN Bridge option enabling Licensed Practical Nurses to advance with minimal additional coursework before entering the second year of ADN studies.
- RLC maintains a strong NCLEX pass rate of 80% or higher, underscoring its effective preparation and high licensure exam success for graduates.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,446 Avg. Aid Amount
- 65% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Danville Area Community College
Danville, ILProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,947 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Danville Area Community College
- The ADN program at Dallas College offers a unique partnership with Methodist Health System, providing paid nursing education with a commitment to work for Methodist for three years after graduation.
- Students begin clinical hospital rotations in their first semester across multiple area hospitals, gaining early and extensive hands-on experience under expert faculty guidance.
- The program includes an advanced placement option for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN-RN), accelerating degree completion by awarding equivalency credits for prior nursing coursework and experience.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,947 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,715 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Highland Community College
- Highland Community College’s ADN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, ensuring high educational standards and graduate eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam for RN licensure.
- The program offers flexible full-time and part-time enrollment options, accommodating diverse student schedules and accelerating progression toward career goals.
- Students benefit from a strong faculty team composed of experienced nursing professionals with advanced degrees, providing expert instruction and mentorship throughout the program.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,715 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,941 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carl Sandburg College
- Carl Sandburg College's ADN program offers a seamless accelerated pathway to a bachelor's degree in nursing through an exclusive partnership with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, facilitating flexible online completion for working professionals.
- The program maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, providing personalized attention and fostering a supportive learning environment for nursing students.
- The ADN program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Illinois State Board of Nursing, ensuring that graduates are eligible for licensure and recognized for professional practice.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,941 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,438 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Shawnee Community College
- The Shawnee Community College ADN program offers a high NCLEX-RN pass rate averaging 87%, demonstrating strong preparation for licensure and practice.
- It provides career mobility specifically designed for students who have completed a practical nursing program, facilitating advancement in nursing roles.
- The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring recognized quality and adherence to professional standards.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $3,438 Avg. Aid Amount
- 38% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected John Wood Community College
- John Wood Community College’s ADN program offers financial supports such as educational funding, loan forgiveness, and sign-on bonuses from local employers, helping reduce students' financial burden.
- The PATH program, funded by an Illinois Community College Board grant, provides free short-term and long-term nursing education and training with compensation to cover basic living costs during training.
- JWCC’s ADN graduates have strong local employer connections with hospitals and healthcare facilities, enhancing clinical placement opportunities and job prospects upon completion.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,416 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Southeastern Illinois College
Harrisburg, ILProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,476 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southeastern Illinois College
- SIC's ADN program features some of Illinois's highest NCLEX pass rates, demonstrating strong student success on licensure exams.
- The program offers diverse clinical placements, providing hands-on training in multiple healthcare settings to enhance practical nursing skills.
- SIC has dedicated, compassionate nursing faculty who support students through a rigorous curriculum accredited by ACEN for quality nursing education.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $2,476 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Waubonsee Community College
Sugar Grove, ILProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,110 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Waubonsee Community College
- Waubonsee’s ADN program offers state-of-the-art facilities and hands-on training using the same equipment found in hospitals and medical offices, providing students with practical, real-world experience before graduation.
- The program maintains strong partnerships with four-year nursing schools to facilitate smooth transfer for students pursuing a bachelor's degree, enhancing academic progression and career options.
- Tuition is competitively affordable at $132 per credit hour, delivering exceptional educational value alongside accredited, respected nursing degrees.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $1,110 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
Keep Learning
Online CNA Classes in Illinois: Reviewing Top Schools
Online BSN Programs in IL: Browsing Top Schools
Online Nursing Schools & Programs in Illinois: Guide to Top Programs
