Written By
Kathleen Curtis
- Bio
last updated
Illinois is projected to create nearly 17,000 new registered nursing positions in the coming decade, creating demand for competent, compassionate professionals. Whether you’re a high school student who’s set on becoming a nurse, already work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and want to upgrade your degree, or you’re thinking about making a complete career change, pursuing a nursing program in Illinois is a great option. Many nursing schools in Illinois provide both in-person and online opportunities, making it easy to find a program that matches your lifestyle and budget.
This guide includes important information about the best nursing schools in Illinois, including admissions and program requirements, career outlook and salary potential upon degree completion, and spotlights of top programs in the state. Keep reading to learn what you need to know about the variety of nursing degrees available near you and find the best one for your career goals.
Find Illinois Nursing Schools in a City Near You
2023’s Best Nursing Schools in Illinois
With many different schools offering nursing programs at varied academic levels, it’s essential to find the ones that best align with your need for accreditation, affordability, and flexibility. Whether seeking an ADN, BSN, or MSN, the programs highlighted in this section rise to the top with their mix of excellent student support, affordable tuition, and required institutional and programmatic accreditation. Check out these great options for nursing programs in 2023.
Illinois State University
Located in the college town of Normal, Illinois State University offers three BSN pathways to help you gain licensure as a registered nurse. The department also provides a BSN to DNP bridge, a DNP, and a Ph.D. in nursing alongside several certificates. The Mennonite College of Nursing holds accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
First-time students looking to move directly into a BSN program can pursue the traditional path, while those who previously completed an ADN and want to expand their credentials can choose the RN-to-BSN bridge program. If you previously completed a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, the accelerated BSN is for you.
As a competitive program, you should plan to possess a high GPA (3.5 or higher), outline your existing experience within the healthcare field, and submit an essay describing why you want to pursue a nursing career. The department offers various nursing student organizations, a leadership academy, transcultural nursing experiences, and regularly scheduled lectures from nurse professionals.
Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
From its home base of Peoria, St. Francis Medical Center College of Nursing offers a BSN, RN-to-BSN, BSN-to-DNP, MSN, and several post-graduate certificates. The BSN holds accreditation through both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The MSN, DNP, and post-graduate APRN certificates also hold CCNE accreditation.
Because this college of nursing is attached to the Saint Francis Medical Center, students have the opportunity to complete their clinical experiences in a leading, 600-bed medical facility. For learners further afield, the RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP programs can be done online.
Admission requirements vary by program, but once admitted, all students can take advantage of social activities, residential services, several student organizations, a peer teaching group, and Sigma Theta Tau International, the nursing honor society.
University of Illinois Chicago
The University of Illinois Chicago offers a full spectrum of online and in-person nursing programs to meet your needs, regardless of your academic level. A traditional on-campus BSN complements a fully online RN-to-BSN program. The department also offers an MSN for both RNs and non-RNs, a DNP, a Ph.D. in nursing, and several certificate programs.
If you’re looking for an affordable nursing program in Chicago, UIC charges just $475 per credit for the online RN-to-BSN program comprising 30 credits. Campus-based students can enjoy the newly opened, state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs, the urban health program for underrepresented students, and research opportunities in areas such as sleep and health, Midwest nursing history, cardiometabolic promotion, and diabetes.
In terms of student interest groups, UIC provides the College of Nursing Student Council, Graduate Student Nurses Organization, Student Nurses Association, Student Nurses for Social Justice, and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. The BSN, MSN, and DNP programs hold accreditation through CCNE.
Common Traits of the Best Nursing Schools in Illinois
When looking at nursing schools in Illinois, there are several things you should identify in a program before strongly considering it. We look at three of those qualities in this section.
- Nationally Accredited and State Approved
Without question, you should not attend any nursing program in Illinois if it doesn’t maintain proper accreditation and state approval. If you do, you may not qualify for licensure after graduating. When looking at prospective programs, prioritize those that hold accreditation from either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Both organizations provide searchable databases you can customize to Illinois. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation also provides a list of state-approved nursing education programs. - Affordable
Even though registered nurses earn ample salaries, you still don’t want to be saddled with thousands of dollars in educational debt – especially when paying interest on your student loans. Finding an affordable program can help you graduate without breaking the bank. In general, state schools tend to offer the most affordable tuition rates. - Flexible
For many nurses-in-training, they must balance professional and personal responsibilities alongside school. This is especially true for those going back to seek an additional degree or qualification. Finding a flexible nursing program in Illinois ensures you can fit school into your already-busy life. In many cases, online nursing schools in Illinois offer programs that make the most sense for working professionals.
Types of Nursing Programs Available in Illinois
Many different types of nursing programs exist throughout the state, including degrees at every academic level. Whether you’re just starting your nursing journey or are considering a doctorate-level credential, you can find all these and more in the state. We highlight some of the most common options below.
Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs in Illinois
ADN Programs
Associate degrees in nursing provide a stepping stone into the nursing world, allowing graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become registered nurses once they pass. These programs usually require two years of full-time study and include both class-based and clinical learning opportunities.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with this Program
Traditional BSN Programs
While you can become an RN with an associate degree, employers increasingly look for candidates with bachelor’s degrees. A traditional BSN supports first-time learners who want to bypass the ADN and move straight into a BSN. These programs consist of classroom and clinical work and typically require four years of full-time study.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with this Program
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN programs support students who already possess a bachelor’s degree but in a non-nursing subject. Suppose you’re in this predicament and decide you want to work as a registered nurse. In that case, an accelerated BSN can help you complete required coursework more quickly by acknowledging general education courses already taken.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with this Program
Nursing Bridge Programs in Illinois for Current Nurses
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN Programs
If you worked as a licensed practical nurse for a while and now want to move up the career ladder, a bridge program offers an excellent opportunity to upgrade your credentials. The LPN-to-RN results in an associate degree in nursing and typically take 1-2 years to complete. An LPN-to-BSN results in a bachelor’s degree and takes 2-3 years to finish.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs support registered nurses who currently possess an AND but want to earn a bachelor’s degree. Building on knowledge already gained in your previous degree, these bridge programs usually take 18-24 months of full-time study to complete and comprise both classroom and clinical learning. Illinois has more than 30 schools offering RN to BSN programs in the state.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to MSN Programs
RN-to-MSN programs help both associate degree-educated RNs earn a master’s degree in nursing and qualify for advanced roles. Those with an ADN should plan to spend at least three years of full-time enrollment working towards credentials.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with this Program
Advanced Nursing Programs in Illinois
MSN Programs
An MSN offers a great fit if you already possess a BSN, have worked in the field for a few years, and now feel ready to take on leadership and/or advanced practice roles. Most take about two years to complete and offer specializations in areas such as family nurse practitioner, pediatrics, and nurse anesthetist, to name a few options.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with This Program
DNP and PhD. Doctoral Programs
If you want to continue indirect care services, a DNP provides a great path for working in the top positions. These programs take between one and four years to complete, depending on your previous education and experience. A Ph.D. supports those who want to engage in research and/or work in academic settings. They take between four and six years to complete.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with This Program
Post-Graduate Certificates
Post-graduate certificates provide the opportunity for MSN-trained nurses to build specialized skills in specific nursing areas. For instance, if you completed a general MSN program, you may decide to move towards topics such as midwifery, health informatics, psychiatric mental health, or women’s health. A post-graduate certificate can help you achieve that.
Examples of Illinois Nursing Schools with This Program
Best Online Nursing Programs in Illinois: 2023
Finding the right Illinois nursing school comes with certain challenges. Finding the right online nursing school in Illinois can be even harder. Which school has the flexibility you want, the price structure you need, and the support services that many students use to move from day one to graduation and beyond. To help you narrow down the list, we’ve analyzed dozens of colleges and universities across the state to see which have the best online nursing programs for 2023. See which schools earned top grades.
| # | School Name | Type | Cost | Online Programs | More Details | School Information | Online Students | Academic Counseling | Career Placement | Students w/Institutional Aid | Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southern Illinois University-EdwardsvilleEdwardsville, IL | Public | $$ | 3 | The online nursing degree programs at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville were created to provide an effective blend of online and in-person education. When it comes to theory and classroom instruction, the bulk of the coursework in the RN to BSN and MSN programs are offered in a 100% online format. Still, because nursing is a hands-on profession, face-to-face training is often necessary. That’s why these online nursing programs will usually contain one or more classes that have an experiential learning requirement, such as a clinical or practicum. Despite these in-person requirements, the curriculum is set up so students can enroll in the program while also continuing to work. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
MSN – Nurse Educator
MSN – Healthcare and Nursing Administration
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 2 | Illinois State UniversityNormal, IL | Public | $$$ | 3 | When it comes to online nursing degrees, the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University offers several choices. Students just starting out in nursing may be interested in the RN to BSN, which provides all classroom instruction in a remote learning format. If BSN-prepared students seek more than a bachelor’s degree, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), then students have two other programs to consider. The PhD program is not only offered online, but the majority of the classes are held asynchronously. For students with less of an interest in research or teaching who are more interested in clinical work, there’s the DNP program. A substantial part of the curriculum requires students to receive at least 1,000 hours of clinical training in addition to their didactic instruction. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
BSN to PhD
BSN to DNP
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 3 | Governors State UniversityUniversity Park, IL | Public | $$ | 2 | Governors State University offers nursing degree options for students at all stages in their nursing career. Students with an associate degree in nursing can apply to the RN to BSN program. This program requires 120 credits for a bachelor’s degree, but only 41 of those credits are nursing-related. Depending on the student’s prior academic record, they can graduate in just a year or two. Nurses who already have a master’s degree in nursing might be interested in the post-master’s family nurse practitioner certificate. Both the RN to BSN and the certificate programs offer largely online coursework, though students will have to finish clinicals or practicums in person. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
Post-Master’s Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio11/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 4 | Western Illinois UniversityMacomb, IL | Public | $$ | 1 | Western Illinois University offers one online nursing program. It’s the RN to BSN completion track intended for registered nurses seeking a bachelor’s degree to take on additional roles and responsibilities in a clinical setting. All of the lesson-based curriculum components can be completed 100% online, and there are computer simulators to facilitate active learning. Despite these advances in technology, in-person training is still necessary. Some required courses contain clinical components that students must complete at approved health facilities. To help speed up progress through the program, incoming students with an approved associate degree in nursing will automatically get 30 advanced placement credits toward their RN to BSN degree. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 5 | University of Illinois ChicagoChicago, IL | Public | $$$ | 3 | The University of Illinois Chicago offers a host of nursing programs. Many of these are online, and some have special features that make them stand out. The RN to BSN program is fully online and ideal for those with an associate degree who want additional responsibilities at work or are considering eventually getting a graduate degree. At the graduate level, there’s the Master of Science in Nursing program. What’s unique about this degree offering is that there are three tracks available – the MSN degree for non-registered nurses, the MSN degree for registered nurses, and the MSN degree for registered nurses with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. For nurses seeking a terminal degree, there’s the Doctor of Nursing Practice, which combines online and on-campus coursework. Program Highlights: RN to BSN
Master of Science in Nursing for RNs
Doctor of Nursing Practice
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 6 | Chamberlain University-IllinoisAddison, IL | Private for-profit | $$$$ | 9 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio20/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 7 | Rasmussen University-IllinoisRockford, IL | Private for-profit | $$$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 8 | Methodist CollegePeoria, IL | Private not-for-profit | $$$$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio8/1 |
AccreditationHLC |
University of Northern Illinois
The University of Northern Illinois in DeKalb offers several different online nursing options at various academic levels. You can currently choose from an RN-to-BSN, an MSN, and a DNP – all available online. The bridge program exists fully online and consists of as few as 21 credits, depending on how many courses you can transfer to UNI. Applicants must possess an associate degree or nursing diploma, active RN license, and minimum 2.75 GPA.
The MSN exists fully online except for required clinicals and offers tracks in family nurse practitioner or nursing education. Regardless of your chosen specialization, plan to complete a capstone project. Required admission materials include a current RN license in Illinois, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program, three reference letters, a goal statement, and at least 2,000 hours of clinical practice completed within the last three years.
All coursework for the DNP is taken online, but this program does require in-person clinicals. The program is open to both bachelor’s and master’s students and offers dedicated scholarships. 95% of graduates report finding work within one year of graduation.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
Can I earn my nursing degree in Illinois completely online?
Several nursing schools in Illinois offer nursing programs that can be completed fully online, provided you already work as an RN and possess clinical training. That said, the majority allows for you to complete coursework online but include in-person clinical components.
Will my online Illinois nursing degree be considered less valuable by employers?
Completing a nursing program in Illinois online has no effect on your value to employers as long as you attend a properly accredited and state-approved program. In fact, your degree diploma won’t even distinguish whether you studied on campus or online.
Are online nursing programs in Illinois more affordable than campus programs?
Nursing schools in Illinois may charge the same tuition for in-person and online students but enrolling at a distance means you can often bypass campus-based fees and charges. For instance, you won’t be charged facility and parking fees. By studying online, you can also save on things like transportation, eating out, and campus-based housing.
Financial Aid Opportunities for Nursing Students in Illinois
With the cost of higher education rising each year, Illinois nursing students should take advantage of any and all financial aid opportunities. While you may first think of loans, you can also find plenty of scholarships and grants. Prioritize these when you can since they don’t require repayment. Loans should be your last option after exhausting all other possibilities.
In addition to nursing scholarships provided by individual schools, you should also see if your state or local government offers awards. The Illinois Department of Public Health offers a scholarship, as does the Illinois Nursing Workforce Center. Professional associations can also provide support, as evidenced by the Illinois Nurses Foundation. For more information, check out our nursing scholarship guide and financial aid guide.
How to Become an RN in Illinois: Licensing Information and Requirements
Before ever starting a nursing program in Illinois, you need to make sure you understand specific licensing requirements set by the state. Failing to do all the steps correctly – including attending a properly accredited and state-approved program – can result in issues getting your license later on. Check out the steps below to get started.
Complete a state-approved RN program
First-time licensure applicants must ask their alma mater to submit an official student roster, official transcript, or an ED-NUR form to Continental Testing Services, the official provider of RN license exams for the state of Illinois. The roster is only good for 90 days, meaning you must take the test within 90 days or have the information resubmitted.
Apply for the Registered Professional Nurse Exam
Apply through Continental Testing Services to sit for the computerized exam. To apply, you must pay a non-refundable application fee of $98. This fee lasts for three years, but you must reapply if you do not pass the exam within three years. You must also register with Pearson Vue Professional Testing and pay a $200 fee.
Submit Required Documentation
Applicants must also provide proof of fingerprinting from an Illinois Live Scan Fingerprint Vendor. You must wait for these to be sent before you can check your application status or receive an Authorization to Test (ATT).
Take the NCLEX-RN Exam
After receiving ATT, you can take the computerized exam at an approved Pearson Vue Professional Testing Center. Official results will usually be available within 7-10 days after taking the test, and an official results letter will arrive.
Apply for License
Once you receive evidence of a passing score, contact the IDFPR based on your official results letter’s instructions.
Job Outlook for RNs in Illinois
It’s an excellent time to become a registered nurse in Illinois, as the government projects that roles for these professionals will grow an astonishing 12.4% between 2018-2028, leading to the creation of nearly 17,000 new roles. Whether you aspire to work in a hospital, residential care facility, clinic, or physician’s office, jobs in each of these settings should grow in the coming years. As you can see, Illinois’ employment projection numbers slightly beat the national average, but it’s a good sign that roles for RNs are set to grow all across the country in the coming years.
Employment Projections for RNs in Illinois
| Employment (2018) | New Jobs (2018-2028) | Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | |
| Illinois | 133,930 | 16,660 | 12.4% | 9,260 |
| United States | 3,059,800 | 371,500 | 12.1% | 210,400 |
Source: Projections Central
Nursing Salaries in Illinois: How Much You Could Make as an RN
When judging the state as a whole, Illinois ranks slightly lower than the national median pay rate for the United States. That said, RNs working in Illinois cities with a higher cost of living (e.g., Chicago, Naperville, Rockville, etc.) actually earn higher than the national median to account for additional expenses. As you can also see, RNs in the top 10% of earners bring home substantially more than those in the bottom 10%.
Annual Earnings for Registered Nurses in Illinois
| 10th Percentile | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile | |
| Illinois | $51,610 | $71,620 | $101,200 |
| United States | $52,080 | $73,300 | $111,220 |
| Bloomington, IL | $50,580 | $63,840 | $84,180 |
| Carbondale-Marion, IL | $34,660 | $58,960 | $81,460 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $46,160 | $60,210 | $79,700 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $54,710 | $75,700 | $103,780 |
| Danville, IL | $51,600 | $68,530 | $96,330 |
| Decatur, IL | $42,720 | $61,040 | $82,050 |
| Kankakee, IL | $51,160 | $68,240 | $97,740 |
| Peoria, IL | $51,330 | $64,530 | $85,080 |
| Rockford, IL | $52,590 | $65,250 | $85,910 |
| Springfield, IL | $51,230 | $69,310 | $88,330 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2019
Illinois Nursing Resources
Operating as the nurses’ union in the state, INA provides collective bargaining services, a political action committee, information on legislation and politics, and continuing education services. Members also gain access to events and career information.
llinois Nurse Licensure – State of Illinois
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation oversees nursing licensure in the state. It provides step-by-step information on filling for an initial license as well as renewing existing ones. Consumers can also file complaints.
American Nurses Association, Illinois
The Illinois chapter of the ANA supports nursing professionals in the state by providing in-person and virtual events, publications, advocacy services, and information on available careers.
The INF focuses on advancing the nursing profession in Illinois by offering funding opportunities, awards, grants, and scholarships. The group also holds several events and fundraisers each year to continue its work.
Scholarships and Resources for RN Students
If you want to learn more about scholarships and other financial aid opportunities for your nursing degree, check out our comprehensive page on the subject.