Online Nursing Schools in IL: Your Guide to Top Programs
Illinois residents searching for the state’s best online and hybrid nursing schools can use this guide to review top-ranked universities offering a full range of nursing programs — from certificates and doctorates to bridge programs that let you earn an advanced degree more quickly. We will also go into licensing needs, salaries, and career potential for nurses in Illinois.
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A Look at the Varieties of Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
Pursuing a nursing program in Illinois can be an excellent solution for students seeking to make a difference in their careers. You might be a high school student set on becoming a registered nurse (RN), or maybe you’re already working as an RN and want to upgrade your nursing degree. You may even be thinking about making a complete career change, and there are programs for that scenario, too.
Online classes are usually delivered as hybrid programs, meaning you must take some courses and/or do clinical work in person. For some degree programs, though, you will find that your coursework is 100% online.
Prospective students should consider a program’s tuition costs and time frame; some programs can accelerate the latter. Below, we’ll give examples of all types of nursing education programs, starting with undergraduate degrees and moving on to bachelor’s degrees and doctorates.
Undergraduate 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 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 Degree Programs
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
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
Bridge Programs for Undergraduate to Graduate Degrees
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.
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
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.
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.
Earnings & Job Projections for Registered Nurses 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.
Rating the Leading Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
We ranked nursing programs in Illinois based on several traits, including affordability, student support, online offerings, and academic quality. Schools were rated on material they provided to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). They were rated on attributes such as the percentage of students that take online courses, types of financial aid offered, faculty-to-student ratio, and tuition cost for full-time students.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,286 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northern Illinois University
- Northern Illinois University’s Nursing program provides early and diverse clinical placements starting sophomore year, gaining experience in hospitals, clinics, and community health agencies across northern Illinois.
- Students benefit from access to a Nursing Resource Center featuring advanced simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins to practice clinical skills and critical decision-making in a controlled environment.
- The program offers robust networking and professional development through participation in the Student Nurses Association, which supports community service and career growth opportunities.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,286 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,288 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Roosevelt University
- Roosevelt University's Nursing program offers accelerated completion in just three years with the same clinical depth as other Chicago nursing programs, enabling students to begin their nursing careers faster.
- Students gain clinical experience in top Chicago hospitals like Northwestern Medicine, Sinai Health System, and Weiss Memorial Hospital, providing high-quality hands-on training with potential future coworkers.
- The program emphasizes analysis of complex clinical situations and solid decision-making, preparing graduates to deliver compassionate, culturally competent care to diverse patient populations.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,288 Avg. Aid Amount
- 39% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,231 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of St Francis
- Saint Francis University offers a BSN Second Degree Nursing Track that allows non-nurses with a bachelor's degree to earn a BSN in as little as 18 months, boasting a 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate for its graduates.
- The Nursing program provides extensive hands-on clinical and community nursing experiences across diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, behavioral health centers, and public health organizations, enhancing practical skills with over 900 supervised clinical hours.
- Students benefit from cutting-edge facilities such as the Health Science Experiential Learning Commons, which includes advanced simulation suites like mock emergency and intensive care rooms with computer-controlled mannequins, supporting experiential learning and realistic practice.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,231 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,475 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Illinois State University
- The Nursing program offers flexible 8-week online courses allowing students to complete direct care clinical components at their place of employment, providing convenience and practical integration.
- It includes a partnership pathway for ADN students from community colleges that provides dual admission, streamlining transfer and progression to the BSN degree.
- Applicants are admitted on a rolling basis even if still completing ADN or prerequisites, enabling timely enrollment without waiting for full degree completion.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,475 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 19/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $21,264 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Saint Xavier University
- Saint Xavier University's MSN program offers a 20% tuition discount for students employed at clinical partner organizations working at least 40 hours per pay period, reducing education costs significantly.
- The program features two specialized majors—Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator—equipping students for certification exams and advanced roles with immediate career impact.
- As a CCNE-accredited online program with nationally recognized faculty, SXU prepares students for leadership and evidence-based practice while offering flexible learning applicable across diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $21,264 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $10,522 Avg. Aid Amount
- 20% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Chicago State University
- Charles Sturt University's Nursing program offers at least 800 hours of practical clinical placements in diverse, real-world healthcare settings, ensuring extensive hands-on experience before graduation.
- The program benefits from strong industry partnerships and connections with regional health districts in New South Wales, facilitating relevant, contemporary training and excellent employment prospects.
- Charles Sturt is recognized as the #1 university in Australia for nursing graduates who secure jobs, highlighting the program’s outstanding graduate employability and industry readiness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $10,522 Avg. Aid Amount
- 20% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,469 Avg. Aid Amount
- 75% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Bradley University
- Bradley’s Nursing program uniquely prepares students with hands-on experience using Epic’s Lyceum, the leading digital health record software used nationwide, ensuring readiness before clinical rotations.
- Students in the online MSN program can complete clinical hours flexibly with approved preceptors of their choice, allowing personalized, real-world practice across different specialties.
- Bradley fosters strong professional connections through dedicated faculty mentorship and clinical supervisors, building a valuable support network for career advancement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,469 Avg. Aid Amount
- 75% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $21,553 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lewis University
- Lewis University’s Nursing Program features state-of-the-art simulation labs that provide immersive, real-life clinical training for enhanced clinical judgment and problem-solving skills.
- The Accelerated BSN option enables students to obtain their Registered Nurse credential in as few as five semesters, offering a fast-track pathway for career advancement.
- Students benefit from personalized education with small class sizes and individualized faculty attention, promoting a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $21,553 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,333 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Dominican University
- Dominican University offers an annual four-year full tuition scholarship to one outstanding freshman nursing student, enhancing affordability for top candidates.
- Their accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) options allow degree holders to complete the program in 12 months (weekday) or 24 months (weekend), facilitating faster entry into nursing careers without sacrificing quality.
- The Nursing Division features expert clinical faculty who provide extensive hands-on training through a wide variety of clinical sites, preparing graduates to excel in diverse healthcare settings and ensuring high clinical readiness.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $20,333 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,490 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Quincy University
- Quincy College's Nursing program features an active learning environment with faculty deeply involved in student collaboration, fostering critical thinking and leadership skills aligned with current nursing practice.
- The program offers flexibility with locations in both Quincy and Plymouth, accommodating diverse student needs and geographic preferences.
- The curriculum is designed to meet state licensure requirements, emphasizing professional role socialization, including legal, ethical, and leadership responsibilities essential for modern nursing careers.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,490 Avg. Aid Amount
- 42% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 14/1 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
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