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There are over 172,000 professionals working in the field of nursing in Illinois. They work in all aspects of healthcare, from hospitals to clinics, community centers, schools, government agencies, and long-term care centers. According to a 2020 nursing workforce survey, 52 percent of the RNs in Illinois are over the age of 55. Over the next decade, much of the nursing workforce will retire, and there will be a high demand for new nurses in this state.
There are three primary levels of nursing in Illinois. A one-year certificate makes it possible to become a licensed practical nurse. This level of nurse must be under the supervision of a physician or a registered nurse. Students who complete at least an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) are eligible to be licensed as registered nurses. Other degrees students can earn to be registered nurses include a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an entry-level master of science in nursing.
The last level of nursing in Illinois is that of an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and is reserved for registered nurses who have completed additional education and training to be able to provide independent care. They can specialize in anesthesia, midwifery, or family practice. Each level of nursing has its own licensing requirements overseen by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Details about the requirements for each license can be found below.
Continue reading to learn more about Illinois’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. Also included below are average wages for different nursing careers and licensing requirements for each.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Illinois
Aspiring nurses at Illinois Central College have several education options. These include a certificate for licensed practical nursing or an associate’s degree for registered nurses. All paths take two years to complete. There is even a degree option for students with previous healthcare experience in a field other than nursing. Students will learn nursing theory alongside practical skills in each of these programs. Clinical experiences are required for all students.
Admission requirements vary by program but include a high school diploma or GED, ACT or SAT test scores, and prerequisite coursework. Class sizes in this program are limited to only 15 students to ensure a high-quality and personalized education.
- Location: East Peoria, IL
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: Starts at $5,890
Ambria College of Nursing offers students three education options for students pursuing a career in nursing. In as little as 12 months, students can complete a certificate for licensed vocational nurses. The registered nurse program takes 20 months to complete. All programs also offer part-time options for students who need to balance family or work alongside their studies. Students who already have an RN license can complete their bachelor of science in nursing through this school as well.
There are three application windows for fall, spring, or summer starts to allow students a high degree of flexibility in their studies. To be considered for admission, students must take a placement exam. The score needed will depend on the level of degree the student is applying to. Covid vaccinations are required for this program.
- Location: Hoffman Estates, IL
- Duration: 12 to 20 months
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $300 per credit for general education; $600 for nursing
The associate’s degree in nursing at Black Hawk College is an entry-level nursing program for students who have no prior experience in healthcare. Graduates of this program are employed in all healthcare sectors, including hospitals, clinics, government agencies, community organizations, and long-term care. The curriculum for this program is career oriented and prepares students to find entry-level work and be highly successful.
To be considered for admission to this program, applicants will need a minimum HESI RN Admission Assessment Exam test score of 70. Other requirements include a high school diploma or GED, ACT test scores, completion of Prospective Nursing Student Orientation, and prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology.
- Location: Moline, IL
- Duration: Four semesters
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $270 per credit
Carl Sandburg College offers students the opportunity for a fulfilling career as a registered nurse, by completing their two-year associate degree in nursing program. During this program, students will spend time in the classroom completing their theoretical nursing education and time in labs and clinicals to gain hands-on experience. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed registered nurses in Illinois.
As with most nursing programs, admission to this degree is highly competitive. Factors the admission staff consider include a TEAS, ACT, or SAT test score and performance in prerequisite coursework. All admitted students must pass a thorough background check and drug screening before starting classes.
- Location: Galesburg, IL
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $23,184.75 for the entire program
Lincoln Land Community College
The three education options for nurses at Lincoln Land Community College include a certificate for licensed practical nurses, an associate’s degree in nursing for first time nursing students, and LPN to ADN transition program for students already working in this field. All programs include classroom, lab, and clinical education to ensure graduates have the skills and knowledge necessary to work in this field. Consistently this program boasts over 90 percent pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.
To be considered for admission to this program, students will need to have a high school diploma or GED, have a TEAS score of basic or higher, be a current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or LPN, depending on the degree, and give evidence of satisfactory physical and emotional health to work in this field successfully.
- Location: Springfield, IL
- Duration: One to two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $411 per credit
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Illinois
Chamberlain University – College of Nursing
The Addison, IL campus of Chamberlain University College of Nursing offers several nursing degree options at the graduate and undergraduate level. For students who are already working as licensed registered nurses, there is a bachelor’s of science or master’s of science in nursing degree. Students who have already completed a BSN can earn their MSN or doctor of nursing practice through this school. Most programs are offered online with in-person clinical experiences.
The online format of these degrees allows students a high degree of flexibility in completing their studies. Many students continue to work or care for family while advancing their education and career. The experiential learning coordination team members help students find a clinical placement within 100 miles of their homes.
- Location: Addison, IL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $690 to $800 per credit
University of Illinois Chicago – College of Nursing
The College of Nursing at the University of Illinois Chicago has a plethora of options for graduate degrees in nursing. Aspiring nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing can complete a direct entry master’s of science in nursing. Candidates who have already completed a bachelor of science in nursing have many more options, including an MSN, doctor of nursing practice, or PhD. The degree pursued will depend on career goals with programs to work in administration, research, or direct patient care.
With so many different programs, admission requirements will vary depending on the level of education pursued. All graduate degrees require a bachelor’s degree at a minimum. Other admission requirements can include work experience, prerequisite coursework, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current resume.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: Up to $1,476 per credit
Northern Illinois University – College Of Health And Human Sciences School Of Nursing
The master’s of science in nursing at Northern Illinois University College Of Health And Human Sciences School Of Nursing is an online program that is typically completed in three years of part-time study. Students can choose a family nurse practice specialization or one in nurse education. The FNP specialization will prepare graduates to work as advanced practice registered nurses, whereas the nurse education specialization trains nurses to teach the next generation of nursing students.
The online nature of this program allows for a high degree of flexibility when completing this program. Many students will continue to work while earning their master’s degree. Clinical experiences and internships are required for both specializations to ensure graduates have honed their theoretical skills into practical ones.
- Location: DeKalb, IL
- Duration: Three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $743.60 per credit
Illinois College offers a one-year online master’s of science in nursing for students looking to step into a nursing leadership or educator role. Classes are offered in eight-week terms in an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete their coursework at their own pace and when it is convenient for them. Most students in this program continue to work while earning this advanced degree.
Topics covered include how to deliver direct patient-centered care, effective communication, and teamwork. All students will also receive extensive training in evidence-based practices as well as advanced assessment techniques.
To be considered for admission to this program, students must have a bachelor of science in nursing and at least two years of work experience as registered nurses. In total, students must earn 36 credits to be awarded this degree.
- Location: Jacksonville, IL
- Duration: One year
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $750 per credit
Loyola University Chicago – Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing
There are three graduate degree options for nursing students at Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. Students can complete either a master’s of science in nursing, a doctor of nursing practice, or a PhD. While the DNP and PhD require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s of science in nursing, the MSN degree is an option for registered nurses without a bachelor’s.
Specializations vary by degree level pursued but include leadership, nurse practitioner concentrations, and healthcare administration. All programs include general education classes that emphasize leadership and clinical competencies. Clinical experience is also a key component of all degrees offered here.
- Location: Maywood, IL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,150 per credit
Elmhurst College offers three types of master’s of science in nursing degrees as well as a doctor of nursing practice degree. The MSN tracks are open to registered nurses and students with no nursing experience but have earned a bachelor’s degree in another field. The latter program is known as a Master’s Entry in Nursing Practice (MENP) and is offered both online and on-campus. The DNP degree at this school is offered through distance learning as well.
Online classes for the DNP and MSN are offered asynchronously so students can complete their studies at their own pace. While most of the coursework is delivered online, both degrees require students to come to campus for a two-week residency. Clinical experiences can happen at Elmhurst or at a location near the student.
- Location: Elmhurst, IL
- Duration: 20 to 28 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: Varies based on degree. DNP programs are $950 per credit
McKendree University – School of Nursing & Health Professions
With both doctor of nursing practice and master’s of science in nursing degree options, nurses will find a good fit for their graduate education at McKendree University School of Nursing & Health Professions. The DNP degree specializes in ethical leadership, while students in the MSN program can choose to concentrate on population health, nursing education, or nursing administration and management.
Both degree options are offered online so students can complete their studies without relocating. It is common for students completing this program to also work full-time. The DNP program does require two on-campus immersions for hands-experience and cohort networking.
- Location: Lebanon, IL
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $605 per credit
Saint Xavier University – School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Graduate education options at Saint Xavier University School of Nursing and Health Sciences include a master’s of science in nursing or a graduate certificate. Both education options offer concentrations in clinical nurse leadership, family nurse practice, or nurse education. There is also an MSN/MBA dual degree option for nurses who want to pursue a business degree alongside their nursing education.
All education options are offered through online learning. This flexible format allows students to work or care for their families while earning their graduate degrees. At a minimum, students will complete 600 hours of clinical experience to gain hands-on experience. All faculty in these programs maintain an active clinical practice to stay abreast of advances in best practices.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $750 per credit
North Park University – School of Nursing and Health Sciences
For more than 50 years, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at North Park University has been providing high-quality nursing education to the students in Illinois. They offer undergraduate and graduate degree options for students at all stages of their education and careers. At the graduate level, options include a doctor of nursing practice or a master’s of science in nursing degree. There are programs for students who already have a registered nursing license and those with no prior nursing experience.
All North Park graduate programs require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree. If the bachelor’s degree is in nursing, a student can pursue a more advanced degree, such as that of an advanced practice registered nurse. If the bachelor’s is in a field other than nursing, a student can complete their master’s of science in nursing to be eligible for initial licensure as a registered nurse.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $825 to $835 per credit
DePaul University College of Science and Health
DePaul University College of Science and Health offers three innovative nursing graduate degree options. They offer a master’s entry to nursing practice (MENP) for applicants who aren’t already nurses, a doctor of nursing practice for nurses with a bachelor’s degree, and post-master’s certificates for students who already have a master’s degree in a field other than nursing.
Depending on the degree completed, students may choose from a concentration in clinical nurse leadership, family practice, nurse midwifery, nurse anesthesia, or adult-gerontology. The admission requirements will vary by program but are highly competitive, so students should ensure they have the necessary qualifications, including prerequisite coursework.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Duration: One to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $765 per credit
Nursing School Accreditation
To become a registered nurse, it is necessary to have a nursing degree from an accredited nursing program. A degree from an accredited school assures employers and patients that the nurses who graduate from that school have met rigorous academic standards. Attending an accredited nursing school is important for many reasons, chief among them being the quality of education a student will receive.
In addition, accreditation is required in order to be eligible for a registered nursing license or to sit for a national exam required for licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse.
The two primary accrediting agencies are Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing(ACEN) and the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education(CCNE). ACEN accredits all nurse education levels, but CCNE acts as an accrediting organization for graduate programs and fellowships only. Some states may require that students attend a program accredited by their board of nursing, as is the case in California.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Illinois?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2021—the latest data available as of February 2023.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 641,240 | 16,820 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $51,850 | $54,080 |
| 10th percentile | $37,150 | $45,200 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $48,070 | $52,700 |
| 90th percentile | $63,790 | $61,770 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,047,530 | 129,260 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $82,750 | $78,260 |
| 10th percentile | $59,450 | $59,640 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,600 | $77,580 |
| 90th percentile | $120,250 | $100,650 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 43,950 | 1,140 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $202,470 | $250,280 |
| 10th percentile | $131,840 | $173,610 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $195,610 | >$208,000 per year |
| 90th percentile | >$208,000 per year | >$208,000 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,750 | 260 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $114,210 | $115,690 |
| 10th percentile | $61,500 | $95,970 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $112,830 | $120,450 |
| 90th percentile | $166,170 | $131,00 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 234,690 | 7,160 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $118,040 | $120,470 |
| 10th percentile | $79,470 | $97,950 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,680 | $122,960 |
| 90th percentile | $163,350 | $141,200 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In order to be eligible for an LPN license in Illinois, candidates must:
|
Illinois requires LPNs to renew every two years. The requirements include:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation |
Registered Nurses applying for licensure in Illinois must:
|
Illinois requires registered nurses to renew every two years. Candidates must:
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Illinois, a CNS must meet the following criteria to be licensed:
|
CNS licenses in Illinois need to be renewed every two years. To renew, the applicant must complete 80 hours of continuing education. In addition, applicants must renew their RN license in order to renew the advanced practice registered nurse license. At the time of renewal, APRNs shall attest to continued national certification in their specialty (CNS). The fee to renew is $40 or $80 depending on when the original license was issued. |
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Illinois, CNMs must meet the following criteria to be licensed:
|
CNM licenses in Illinois need to be renewed every two years. To renew, the applicant must complete 80 hours of continuing education. In addition, applicants must renew their RN license in order to renew the advanced practice registered nurse license. At the time of renewal, APRNs shall attest to continued, current national certification in their specialty (Nurse Midwife). |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Illinois, NPs must meet the following criteria to be licensed:
|
NP licenses in Illinois need to be renewed every two years. To renew, the applicant must complete 80 hours of continuing education. In addition, applicants must renew their RN license in order to renew the advanced practice registered nurse license. At the time of renewal, APRNs shall attest to continued national certification in their specialty. |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Illinois
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of Illinois, CRNAs must meet the following criteria to be licensed:
|
CRNA licenses in Illinois need to be renewed every two years. In order to renew, the applicant must complete 80 hours of continuing education. In addition, applicants must renew their RN license in order to renew the advanced practice registered nurse license. At the time of renewal, APRNs shall attest to continued, current national certification in their specialty (Nurse Anesthetist). |
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterThanks to her experience writing in healthcare, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth articles on timely topics for NursingColleges.com since 2022. Her aim is to assist both students and professionals in navigating the intricate process of selecting a nursing program and understanding the ever-evolving realm of nursing education.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.