Online Nursing Schools & Programs in Illinois: Guide to Top Programs
Hybrid & online nursing programs in Illinois give students and professionals a convenient way to move their careers forward. From CNA classes to DNP programs, EduMed walks you through your nursing higher education options. Learn what’s out there, what it takes to get in, how much it costs, and what to expect after graduation.
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NursingHealth ScienceOnline Nursing Programs in Illinois by Level
Online nursing programs in Illinois offer students and professionals a flexible way to earn a degree. Most online nursing programs are delivered as hybrid formats, combining virtual coursework with in-person clinicals. Some programs, particularly at the graduate level, may be fully online. When choosing a program, consider factors such as tuition, program length, and whether an accelerated option is available.
Here’s a quick look at the nursing degrees available in Illinois.
- Undergraduate certificates – Quick entry into nursing roles with foundational skills.
- Associate degrees (ADN) – Prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN and begin an RN career.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Offers broader education and more career opportunities.
- Master’s and Doctoral programs (MSN, DNP) – Designed for advanced practice, leadership, or specialization.
Illinois Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Nursing students can find a starting point for a healthcare career best suited to their needs. Certificate programs can help you get an early start with the basics of patient care, while associate and master’s degrees will give you opportunities for advanced care. Listed below are examples of each type of program.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) assist patients with sanitation needs, basic movement, and more in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical and healthcare facilities. It is the most entry-level position for nurses so that you can graduate from an Illinois online CNA program in a matter of weeks. Online CNA classes are usually combined with in-person clinicals, making most programs hybrid or in-person.
Example: International Career Institute
- Cost: $1,250
- Length: Four to 10 weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are one step above CNAs in terms of responsibility and pay. To become an LPN, students must complete an accredited higher education program. Shorter online LPN programs can take as little as nine months, while more extended programs can take up to 18 months. Completing an LPN program can also set you up to enter a bridge program later in your career, allowing you to continue working while you pursue a four-year degree.
Example: Lake Area Technical College
- Cost: $3,906
- Length: 11 months to one and a half years
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), also known as an associate of science in nursing (ASN), is a two-year degree that prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN exam and gain state licensure as a registered nurse (RN). RNs have more responsibilities and get paid more than CNAs and LPNs, and earning an associate’s degree can get you working with patients quicker than earning your bachelor’s would.
Example: John A. Logan College
- Cost: $12,931
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a longer, more comprehensive degree that prepares students to become an RN. Like ADN programs, online BSN programs prepare students to work as RNs. However, their extended timeline and training help qualify you for more selective and lucrative roles than a two-year degree would, as some jobs require a BSN to apply.
Example: Chamberlain University – Chicago
- Cost: $53,625
- Length: Three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs combine the speed of an ADN program with the curriculum of a traditional BSN program. Online ABSN programs are meant for people who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another subject and want to change careers and become nurses. This allows students to skip general education credits and focus on nursing curriculum, with some programs allowing you to graduate within a year.
Example: Loyola University – Chicago
- Cost: $63,680
- Length: 16 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Advanced Nursing Programs in Illinois
Earning a graduate degree can be more convenient with online and hybrid options in Illinois. These programs include master’s and doctorate degrees, plus certifications for specialties that can lead to more career opportunities and chances to provide excellent patient outcomes. Listed below are examples of what’s available for working RNs.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Graduating from an online MSN program qualifies graduates for higher-level roles, including nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners (NPs). Like other online nursing programs, some in-person clinical training is generally required to supplement remote courses. Illinois MSN programs typically take two years to complete for full-time students. Some programs also offer specializations in areas like nursing administration or education for students who want to gain expertise in a specific niche.
Example: Northern Illinois University
- Cost: $56,981
- Length: Two and a half to four years
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) RN programs are for nurses who want to impact the nursing industry from the top down via research or leadership roles. A DNP is perfect for nurses looking to apply research to clinical practice and leadership roles within healthcare clinics. Meanwhile, a PhD in Nursing is preferred by those interested in conducting research to advance nursing knowledge and theory.
Example: Illinois State University
- Cost: $27,752
- Length: Two and a half to four years
- Mode: Online
Expert Insight
Some nurses pursue DNP programs because they include a Nurse Practitioner track, which prepares and allows them to sit for the NP licensure exam.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Hospitals and healthcare clinics are willing to pay more for specialized nurses, which can be accomplished via nursing certificate programs for MSN graduates. While some certificates focus on job titles, such as post-master’s nurse practitioner programs, others focus on specialty areas. For example, Loyola University’s certificate (highlighted below) helps nurses specialize in oncology and build a career helping cancer patients.
Example: Loyola University – Chicago
- Cost: $10,170
- Length: Six months
- Mode: Online
Online Nursing Bridge Programs in Illinois
The goal of a nursing bridge program is to provide nurses with an upgraded degree in less time than traditional degrees. These programs often remove at least one to two years from standard studies. The great thing about these programs is they allow students to continue working as they earn their degree, helping to offset the cost of nursing school by enabling students to complete clinicals through their jobs instead of paying to attend through a program.
Expert Insight
Many employers offer tuition assistance for students who want to advance their degree with an agreement to stay with the company for an agreed upon number of years following completion of the degree.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN bridge programs can significantly impact your career and salary prospects once you graduate and become a licensed RN. LPN to RN programs generally take one to two years, while LPN to BSN bridge programs take at least two years. Although RN bridge programs take less time, BSN bridge programs will set you up to earn more money and qualify for more jobs. Both programs require in-person clinical training in preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: Joliet Junior College
- Cost: $10,872 for in-district residents/$30,600 for all other state residents
- Length: One and a half years
- Mode: Hybrid
Expert Insight
Another advantage of BSN bridge programs over RN bridge programs is they provide more theory based education, which is helpful for some of the roles BSN-prepared nurses would take on.
RN to BSN
RN to BSN bridge programs are for students with an active RN license who want to qualify for more jobs and better pay. These programs build up your existing education with more specialized training and education. Often, they also offer a chance to specialize in a specific area of nursing so you can become an expert in a particular field. These programs generally require in-person clinicals and online coursework and can be completed in as little as one year.
Example: University of Illinois – Chicago
- Cost: $9,990
- Length: 12 months
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
Online RN to MSN bridge programs allow licensed RNs to skip earning their BSN and move straight into their master’s degree. An MSN is required to work in high-level positions like nurse practitioner, midwifery, and anesthesia. These programs generally take at least two years to complete for full-time students, combining in-person clinicals with online courses. You can also choose to get a specialized MSN in areas like administration and education.
Example: DePaul University
- Cost: $18,720
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP nursing programs are ideal for nurses who want to help patients and healthcare facilities via research. DNP holders generally apply their research findings within healthcare facilities to nurses working in clinical practice and leadership roles. Earning a DNP also qualifies graduates to work as advanced practice nurse practitioners (APNPs).
Example: Illinois State University
- Cost: $27,008
- Length: Four to five years
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree but don’t have previous nursing experience, you would benefit from an online direct-entry MSN program. These programs pave the way to becoming a professional nurse while building upon your undergraduate education. As students have no prior experience, these programs typically require a lot of clinical hours to provide graduates with up-to-date training and hands-on experience. Some programs may offer online classes, as well.
Example: Elmhurst University
- Cost: $65,000
- Length: Two Years
- Mode: Hybrid
Illinois Licensing Process for Registered Nurses
Before starting a nursing program in Illinois, it’s essential to understand the rules set by the state so you can work as a nurse. Failing to complete these steps correctly can result in issues securing that license. Check out the process below to see the pathway to licensure.
1 – Earn a Nursing Degree That’s Accredited
As part of the specific licensing requirements from the Illinois government, first-time licensure applicants who graduated from an accredited program must ask their alma mater to submit an official student roster, an official transcript, or an official graduation form to Continental Testing Services, the official provider of RN license exams for the state. You must take the test within 90 days of graduation from an accredited nursing course.
2 – Complete the NCLEX Exam with a Passing Score
The NCLEX-RN exam is the standard for students to become licensed RNs and be hired at nursing facilities. You need to pay two separate fees and register to take the NCLEX-RN. You’ll first apply for the exam through Continental Testing Services and pay a non-refundable application fee of $98. Then, you must also register with Pearson Vue Professional Testing and pay an additional $200 fee.
Expert Insight
I would highly suggest students purchase an nclex prep book or attend an nclex prep course before attempting the exam for the first time. Though these do cost some money and may require you to push back your test date by a few weeks, seeing that passing score on your first try is priceless
3 – File for State Licensure
You will receive official results from the Pearson Vue testing center within seven to 10 days of passing the exam. To obtain an RN license in Illinois, you must give those results to the state’s Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The license costs $50, but you can waive the fee if you are an eligible healthcare worker in Illinois. After you secure the license, you can work at care facilities in the state.
4 – Update and Renew Your Licensure
To renew your RN license in Illinois, you must pay $80. Similar to the license fee, you can get this fee waived if you are a current healthcare worker in Illinois. Licenses usually expire every even year at the end of May. The Illinois Nurse Practice Act requires nurses to complete 20 hours of continuing education by that renewal date. Several state organizations offer these courses, often in an online setting.
5 – Obtain Specialty Certifications (Optional)
You can focus on nursing specialties such as neonatal, anesthesia, and critical care to obtain more opportunities as a nurse. Students commonly earn certification as a nurse practitioner, either in pediatric or family nurse specializations.
Opportunities to become a midwife or a women’s health specialist are available, as well. Most colleges or universities have programs that can help you earn certifications after you obtain a license.
Expert Insight
After a few years working on an orthopedic unit, I decided to obtain my orthopedic nurse certification and I’m glad I did. In addition to opening up a number of job opportunities, the certification was entirely paid for by my hospital and I also receive a speciality bonus each year.
Earnings & Job Projections for RNs in Illinois
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $64,930 | $86,410 | $112,320 |
| Bloomington, IL | $60,490 | $80,060 | $103,590 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $65,460 | $81,960 | $100,580 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN | $72,070 | $96,480 | $118,080 |
| Decatur, IL | $65,980 | $84,120 | $101,260 |
| Kankakee, IL | $62,690 | $83,110 | $104,910 |
| Peoria, IL | $65,550 | $84,690 | $103,440 |
| Rockford, IL | $60,010 | $81,560 | $105,530 |
| Springfield, IL | $66,690 | $81,680 | $107,030 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Illinois | 138,050 | 142,310 | 4,260 | 3.10% | 7,960 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
To help nursing students find the right school, EduMed has ranked nursing programs in Illinois based on several financial and academic factors, including affordability, student support, online programs, and academic quality. All data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and from the schools themselves. See which Illinois nursing schools & programs stand out, and click on About the Ranking to dive in to the methodology.
