Online BSN Programs in IL: Browsing Top Schools
If you’re looking for a flexible way to earn your BSN in Illinois, hybrid online programs offer a convenient solution. Hybrid programs combine virtual coursework with in-person clinical rotations, allowing you to balance your studies with work and personal commitments. This EduMed student guide covers information that will help you in your search, including program details, the top online BSN programs in Illinois, salary expectations, and job prospects. Get started in making an informed decision by reading on.
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Inside Popular BSN Programs in Illinois
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online is one of the best ways to become a registered nurse (RN) and build a successful career in hospitals, clinics, specialty care, and community health settings. While an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) qualifies you for an RN license, more employers now prefer a BSN. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), nearly two-thirds of healthcare employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses, and about one-third of hospitals now require a BSN for employment.
For students who need flexibility, online BSN programs in Illinois provide a structured yet adaptable learning experience. While no BSN program is fully online due to clinical requirements, many follow a hybrid format. The first two years cover general education and pre-nursing coursework, which can be completed online. The final two years focus on core nursing subjects, such as medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, and leadership in nursing, along with in-person clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities. This blended approach helps students gain hands-on experience while preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam, required for licensure.
With Illinois hospitals increasingly requiring a BSN, earning this degree expands career opportunities, offers higher salary potential, and provides long-term job stability. Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or looking for a flexible learning option, an online BSN program in Illinois can be the perfect step toward a rewarding nursing career. Continue down below to see some reputable program options to choose from.
Chamberlain University- Illinois
Chamberlain University’s online BSN Program provides a structured yet flexible path for students looking to become registered nurses. With an AI-powered learning platform, you can progress through coursework at your own pace while staying on track with structured deadlines, making it a practical option for those balancing education with other commitments.
One of the key features of Chamberlain’s BSN program is its individualized approach to learning. Unlike traditional programs, experienced nurse educators design personalized learning plans based on each student’s strengths and areas for improvement. To prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam, students also engage in virtual patient simulations, which help develop clinical judgment and decision-making skills. Additionally, students receive guidance from nurse educators and career coaches.
For students in Illinois, the program offers clinical rotations at Chamberlain’s campuses in Addison, Chicago, and Tinley Park, providing access to a variety of healthcare settings. Those who need more flexibility can also opt for the Evening/Weekend BSN option at the Addison campus.
Duration: Three years
Mode: Online with in-person clinicals
Cost: $101,950
Admissions Requirements:
- A completed HESI A2 entrance exam
- A high school diploma or equivalent from a Chamberlain recognized High School or an institution accredited by an organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education
Core Curriculum:
- Basic Nursing Skills (in-person lab)
- Health Assessment
- Adult Health I, II, and III + Clinicals
- Intrapersonal Leadership and Professional Growth
- Intermediate Nursing Skills (in-person lab)
- Women’s and Children’s Nursing + Clinical
- Scholarship in Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing + Clinical
- Community Health and Population-Focused Nursing + Clinical
- Information Technology in Nursing Practice
- Organizational Systems and Healthcare Transformation
- Advanced Nursing Skills (virtual lab)
- Professional Nursing Role Transition + Clinical
- Issues in Nursing Practice
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Herzing University
Herzing University’s online BSN Program is designed for those who are new to nursing and want a structured, fast-track path to becoming an RN.
As part of your training, you’ll complete clinical rotations at healthcare facilities, along with three intensive training sessions at a Herzing campus or partner site. While clinical placements in Illinois aren’t guaranteed, Herzing’s placement team will work with you to secure a clinical site near your location, making placements in Illinois a possibility.
Beyond coursework and clinicals, you’ll have access to comprehensive student support services to help you succeed in your studies and prepare for your career. The program is accredited by the CCNE and HLC. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to earn dual credits toward Herzing’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, making it easier to continue your education and expand your career opportunities after earning your BSN.
Duration: Three years (Full-time)
Mode: Online with in-person clinicals
Cost: $90,600
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher
- Minimum score of 66 or higher on the most current version of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) within three years of anticipated enrollment
Core Curriculum:
- Nursing Pathophysiology
- Health Assessment
- Nursing Fundamental Concepts
- Medical-Surgical Nursing I, II, and III
- Pharmacology
- Mental Health Nursing
- Family Nursing
- Advanced Leadership and Management
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
- Nursing Informatics
- Policy, Trends, & Ethics in Nursing
- BSN Practicum
- Review of Integrated Nursing Concepts
Your Questions, Answered: FAQs for Illinois BSN Students
If you’re considering an online BSN program in Illinois and still have questions, you’re not alone. Many aspiring nurses wonder about program formats, financial aid, clinical training, and career opportunities. This section provides clear answers to help you navigate your options and feel confident about starting your nursing journey, so read on to find the details you need.
What are the different types of BSN programs?
BSN programs come in several formats to accommodate different educational backgrounds and career goals. Traditional BSN programs are four-year degrees designed for students without prior nursing experience. Direct-entry BSN programs allow you to secure a nursing school spot as a freshman, provided you meet GPA and coursework requirements. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, an accelerated BSN (ABSN) program lets you transition into nursing in as little as 12-18 months. For licensed nurses looking to advance their careers, LPN to BSN bridge programs and RN to BSN pathways offer faster, more flexible options, allowing you to work while earning your degree.
How can I afford a BSN program?
Financial aid can help make a BSN program more affordable and accessible, so start by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility for federal and state grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans. Many schools offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages specifically for nursing students. Programs like the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses in exchange for a service commitment in an underserved area.
How do online BSN programs prepare students for clinical rotations?
Online BSN programs ensure you gain hands-on experience through in-person clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities. Most schools have clinical placement coordinators who assist in matching students with hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers in their area.
While coursework is completed online, clinical rotations allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, work under experienced nursing professionals, and develop essential patient care skills. Some programs also include virtual simulations before in-person rotations, helping you build clinical decision-making skills in a controlled environment before interacting with real patients.
How do online and on-campus BSN programs compare?
Both online and on-campus BSN programs lead to the same degree and nursing license, but they differ in learning format and flexibility. Online BSN programs offer greater flexibility, allowing you to complete coursework remotely and at your own pace. Transitioning to online learning can be ideal for students with full-time jobs or family commitments. However, clinical rotations must still be completed in person at an assigned healthcare facility.
On the other hand, on-campus BSN programs provide face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers, as well as immediate access to labs and campus resources. The best choice depends on your learning style, schedule, and personal preferences.
How can I choose the right BSN program?
Choosing the right BSN program involves several key factors:
- Accreditation – Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to ensure quality education and licensure eligibility.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates – A high pass rate indicates strong exam preparation.
- Clinical Placements – Access to local hospital partnerships is essential for real-world nursing experience.
- Tuition & Financial Aid – Research affordable programs, scholarships, and loans to manage costs.
Illinois BSN Nurse Salaries
Are you on the fence about going to nursing school? We have data to help you decide. In terms of salary, RNs in Illinois make an average of $82,470. The top earners make $105,140, while the lowest earn $63,900. It's also important to consider what you’ll earn in a specific area of the state. For example, the 90th percentile of earners in Decatur make $97,480, with the 10th percentile earning $60,820. The average is $80,970. Similarly, in Kankakee, the average salary for registered nurses is $85,850, with the 10th percentile of earners making $64,990, and the 90th percentile making $112,280. In terms of job growth, there will be a 3.10% increase in jobs in the state, which means 7,960 new jobs will be added to the profession each year. Around the country, 193,100 new jobs will be created annually, which is a 5.60% increase. For more information, review the tables below.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $63,900 | $82,470 | $105,140 |
| Bloomington, IL | $62,590 | $76,960 | $99,580 |
| Carbondale-Marion, IL | $60,300 | $80,620 | $104,840 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $62,820 | $76,530 | $98,790 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $67,560 | $85,160 | $107,980 |
| Danville, IL | $62,520 | $78,040 | $99,730 |
| Decatur, IL | $60,820 | $80,970 | $97,480 |
| Kankakee, IL | $64,990 | $85,850 | $112,280 |
| Peoria, IL | $62,600 | $78,090 | $99,440 |
| Rockford, IL | $63,970 | $81,650 | $101,450 |
| Springfield, IL | $64,620 | $82,990 | $102,900 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, 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 the Best Online BSN Programs: Illinois Edition
Determining the best program for your needs has been made easier thanks to our ranked list of the top options for Illinois students like you. Here, we’ve combined self-reported data from schools and analyzed factors such as accreditation, online components, and student support resources to select the best of the best. For a further look into our ranking methodology, click on “About the Rankings”. Find out which schools made the top of our list below.
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Why We Selected University of Illinois Chicago:
- The program offers a reduced tuition rate of $350 per credit, enhancing affordability for working nurses.
- The RN to BSN program features dual admissions partnerships with several community colleges, ensuring a seamless transition to a bachelor's degree.
- The program is supported by expert faculty and advisors, providing comprehensive support and guidance for online students.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$12,253
- Average Institutional Aid$5,450
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course97%
- % of Students Receiving an Award61%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, Illinois
Why We Selected Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville:
- The program offers accelerated graduate options, allowing students to replace undergraduate credits with graduate courses.
- Corporate partnerships provide convenient tuition reimbursement options for employees pursuing the degree.
- Students can receive up to 43 proficiency credits based on prior experience and coursework, reducing program duration.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,579
- Average Institutional Aid$4,564
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
- % of Students Receiving an Award50%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
University of St Francis
Joliet, Illinois
Why We Selected University of St Francis:
- Saint Francis University offers a 25% tuition scholarship for RNs employed by partner healthcare organizations.
- The program allows students to earn six MSN credits at BSN tuition rates, facilitating future graduate studies.
- Saint Francis University's RN-BSN program can be completed in as little as 11 months, offering accelerated career advancement.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$35,000
- Average Institutional Aid$21,493
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
- % of Students Receiving an Award62%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Lewis University
Romeoville, Illinois
Why We Selected Lewis University:
- Lewis University offers an accelerated nursing program with employer partnerships for tuition discounts.
- The program features a high NCLEX pass rate, indicating strong faculty expertise and clinical preparation.
- Accelerated completion options allow students to finish the program in less than two years, enhancing job readiness.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$35,262
- Average Institutional Aid$21,130
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
- % of Students Receiving an Award66%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, Illinois
Why We Selected Northern Illinois University:
- The program offers competitive tuition rates and scholarship opportunities to support students financially.
- The flexible online format allows students to complete their degree in as few as 12 months, accommodating busy schedules.
- Dedicated career support and access to NIU resources enhance students' professional development and job prospects.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,608
- Average Institutional Aid$5,696
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
- % of Students Receiving an Award48%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Benedictine University
Lisle, Illinois
Why We Selected Benedictine University:
- Benedictine University's RN to BSN program offers a fast-track to MSN degree, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
- The program provides dedicated academic services and personalized support, ensuring student success and satisfaction.
- Benedictine University's online BSN program boasts a 100% post-graduation employment rate, ensuring strong job placement outcomes.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$30,773
- Average Institutional Aid$15,819
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
- % of Students Receiving an Award45%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
McKendree University
Lebanon, Illinois
Why We Selected McKendree University:
- The program offers a Diana Joyce Doros Scholarship, providing $5,000 awards to nursing students.
- McKendree's RN to BSN program allows students to complete the degree in as few as three semesters.
- The program includes valuable practicum experiences in community health and leadership, enhancing professional skills.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$31,700
- Average Institutional Aid$16,674
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
- % of Students Receiving an Award60%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Governors State University
University Park, Illinois
Why We Selected Governors State University:
- The program offers a flexible, 100% online format, allowing students to balance work and studies.
- The program provides maximum flexibility with part-time or full-time enrollment options, enabling students to complete the BSN in as few as three semesters.
- The faculty-student ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship from dedicated and expert instructors.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,512
- Average Institutional Aid$1,964
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course81%
- % of Students Receiving an AwardN/A
- Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
Illinois State University
Normal, Illinois
Why We Selected Illinois State University:
- The program offers flexible 8-week courses for busy RNs.
- Dual enrollment options are available through partnerships with community colleges.
- Supportive full-time faculty lead classes, enhancing the learning experience.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,932
- Average Institutional Aid$5,644
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course41%
- % of Students Receiving an Award69%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Methodist College
Peoria, Illinois
Why We Selected Methodist College:
- Tuition reimbursement is available for nurses employed by Carle Health.
- The program offers flexible online learning, allowing nurses to balance work and education.
- Employer partnerships provide opportunities for tuition assistance and career advancement.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$16,248
- Average Institutional AidN/A
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
- % of Students Receiving an Award25%
- Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 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 counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services 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.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
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 2024
