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
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
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. 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
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 ↕ | 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.
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.
University of St Francis
Joliet, Illinois
Why We Selected University of St Francis:
- The University of St. Francis offers state-of-the-art simulation labs for hands-on learning experiences.
- The program boasts a high NCLEX pass rate, typically between 90% and 100%, ensuring licensure success.
- Students benefit from small class sizes, providing personalized attention and guidance throughout their studies.
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
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Why We Selected University of Illinois Chicago:
- The UIC College of Nursing offers high-quality clinical placements through partnerships with numerous healthcare systems.
- The program features distinguished and award-winning faculty, providing students with cutting-edge research opportunities.
- UIC Nursing provides specialized career tracks, including options for career changers and clinical leaders.
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
Lewis University
Romeoville, Illinois
Why We Selected Lewis University:
- Lewis University's nursing program offers experiential learning through simulation and clinical experiences.
- The program provides opportunities for accelerated completion with options like the RN/BSN pathway.
- Faculty expertise and clinical partnerships enhance career readiness and networking opportunities.
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
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, Illinois
Why We Selected Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville:
- The program offers free transcript evaluation and waives the application fee for employer partnership applicants.
- Corporate partnerships provide convenient options for employees to maximize tuition reimbursement while completing their degree online.
- Students may receive up to 40 or 43 proficiency credits based on prior nursing coursework and experience.
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
Bradley University
Peoria, Illinois
Why We Selected Bradley University:
- Bradley University's DNP program offers a 100% online curriculum with no campus residency required.
- The program provides opportunities for students to apply classroom learning to real-life clinical settings through experiential courses.
- Graduates can enhance their earning potential and career security across various healthcare roles.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$35,940
- Average Institutional Aid$20,657
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course45%
- % of Students Receiving an Award77%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
Why We Selected DePaul University:
- DePaul offers flexible online learning with real-world experiences and expert faculty guidance.
- DePaul's programs provide opportunities for networking through in-person events and job fairs.
- DePaul's online degrees are designed to accommodate working professionals with flexible scheduling options.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$41,361
- Average Institutional Aid$22,276
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
- % of Students Receiving an Award74%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, Illinois
Why We Selected Northern Illinois University:
- The program offers flexible online courses with asynchronous delivery, accommodating busy schedules.
- Scholarships are available, with NIU's School of Nursing awarding significant funds annually.
- Students can transfer up to 33 credits from previous nursing education, reducing overall costs.
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:
- The program offers flexible online courses tailored for working RNs, enhancing professional growth.
- Faculty members are seasoned professionals with diverse clinical backgrounds, providing personalized support.
- Benedictine University offers post-master’s certificates for specialized career advancement in nursing education and leadership.
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
Illinois State University
Normal, Illinois
Why We Selected Illinois State University:
- Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment and virtual reality.
- Emphasis on leadership skills through peer mentorship and curriculum.
- Transfer opportunities available at the Springfield Location.
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
McKendree University
Lebanon, Illinois
Why We Selected McKendree University:
- McKendree's MSN program offers a unique cohort model for personalized learning and networking.
- The program provides strong connections with local healthcare systems through grants and partnerships.
- McKendree's curriculum includes a capstone project where students implement real-world population health improvements.
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
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
