Best Nursing Schools in Illinois: Online & Campus
Find the best nursing schools in Illinois offering online and in-person degrees at every level.
Illinois is projected to create nearly 4,300 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. Start off by reviewing our lineup of exceptional online and hybrid programs.
University of St Francis
Joliet, Illinois
Private
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Public
Lewis University
Romeoville, Illinois
Private
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, Illinois
Public
Bradley University
Peoria, Illinois
Private
DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
Private
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, Illinois
Public
Benedictine University
Lisle, Illinois
Private
Illinois State University
Normal, Illinois
Public
McKendree University
Lebanon, Illinois
Private
Governors State University
University Park, Illinois
Public
Methodist College
Peoria, Illinois
Private
Blessing Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Quincy, Illinois
Private
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Private
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Private
Illinois College
Jacksonville, Illinois
Private
St. John’s College-Department of Nursing
Springfield, Illinois
Private
John A Logan College
Carterville, Illinois
Public
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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
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.
Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in Illinois
For those considering a nursing career in Illinois, understanding the job outlook and salary potential is key to making informed career decisions. Illinois has about 138,050 nursing positions, with a projected growth to 142,310 jobs, indicating moderate growth of 3.1%. Annually, approximately 7,960 RN positions are expected to open, primarily due to growth, retirements, and turnover.
The earnings for RNs in Illinois vary by region. Statewide, the median salary for RNs is $82,470, while the Chicago metro area offers higher median wages at $85,160, with top salaries reaching around $107,980. Other areas like Kankakee and Springfield also show competitive wages, with Kankakee's 90th percentile reaching $112,280. This data suggests strong opportunities and competitive wages for RNs across Illinois, especially in major metro areas. For aspiring nurses, Illinois offers both stable job growth and attractive earning potential in a range of healthcare settings.
| 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.
| 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.
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.
