As the healthcare industry shifts its focus to higher-quality patient care, many registered nurses (RNs) are feeling the need to continue their nursing education. Illinois is a great state for nurses who have previously completed an Associate's Degree in Nursing to pursue a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. With a plethora of schools in the state offering RN to BSN programs just for this purpose, there's never been a better time for RNs to advance their careers.
2026 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Illinois
University of St Francis
Joliet, IL - Private 4-year - stfrancis.edu
Bachelor's - BSN Completion
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of St. Francis offers a comprehensive online BSN Completion Program tailored for experienced registered nurses seeking career advancement. This fully digital program eliminates geographical barriers, allowing working professionals to earn their bachelor's degree flexibly. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum emphasizing leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced nursing competencies. While no specific entrance exam is mentioned, the program welcomes RNs with associate degrees or nursing diplomas. Key highlights include comprehensive coursework in research, healthcare informatics, and policy development. As a Roman Catholic and military-friendly institution, the university provides a supportive learning environment that prepares nurses for complex healthcare challenges and potential leadership roles.
- 100% Online Program
- For Experienced RNs
- Leadership Skills Development
- Evidence-Based Curriculum
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu
Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a dynamic, accelerated educational pathway designed to elevate professional nursing capabilities. Delivered entirely online, the program demands only 32 credit hours and boasts an economical tuition of $8,902, enabling students to complete their degree within three semesters. CCNE-accredited and featuring five annual start dates, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based, holistic nursing practices through an interdisciplinary approach. With experienced faculty and a comprehensive learning model, students can strategically advance their nursing knowledge while maintaining professional flexibility. The program uniquely builds upon existing nursing experience, ensuring practical and theoretical skill enhancement.
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 100% Online Coursework
- 32 Total Credit Hours
- Only $8,902 Tuition
- Three Semester Completion
- Five Annual Start Dates
- Experienced Caring Faculty
- Interdisciplinary Approach
- Evidence-Based Curriculum
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University delivers a dynamic online RN to BSN program tailored for working nurses seeking career advancement. This innovative hybrid program uniquely balances flexibility with comprehensive nursing education, allowing students to earn up to 12 nursing credit hours by leveraging existing professional experience. Designed with an adult-focused curriculum, the program emphasizes holistic patient care, leadership development, and advanced clinical judgment. With a 2.5 GPA admission requirement and recognition as a top 5 Midwest RN to BSN program, students benefit from personalized learning environments that prepare them for evolving healthcare challenges. The program's Roman Catholic affiliated institution and military-friendly status further enhance its appeal to diverse nursing professionals.
- Online and blended classes
- Up to 12 nursing credit hours
- 2.5 GPA admission requirement
- Personalized learning environment
- Holistic patient care approach
- Leadership skill development
Illinois College
Jacksonville, IL - Private 4-year - ic.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Illinois College's fully online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a dynamic pathway to advance their professional credentials through a comprehensive nursing education. Designed for working healthcare professionals, the program emphasizes holistic care principles, evidence-based practice, and critical thinking skills. Students can expect a flexible learning environment that integrates advanced nursing knowledge with practical application. The curriculum focuses on preparing nurses for contemporary healthcare challenges, promoting professional development without disrupting current employment. No specific entrance exam requirements are mentioned for this online track, making it accessible for practicing RNs seeking career advancement.
- Online RN to BSN track
- Holistic nursing framework
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Professional practice preparation
- Flexible learning environment
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL - Public 4-Year - niu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN - B.S.)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern Illinois University's online RN to BSN program stands out as a strategically designed pathway for working registered nurses seeking academic advancement. The fully asynchronous program accommodates healthcare professionals by offering 8-week courses with innovative assessment methods that replace traditional exams. Students can seamlessly transfer up to 33 nursing credits, reducing overall program duration and cost. With a competitive per-credit tuition of $377.04, the program ensures affordability while maintaining high educational standards. The curriculum emphasizes practical learning, enabling students to complete 120 total credit hours flexibly. A minimum 2.75 GPA and an active RN license are required for admission. Military-friendly features and dedicated student success specialists further enhance the program's appeal for working nurses.
- Fully online asynchronous program
- 120 credit hours total
- 33 transferable nursing credits
- 8-week course format
- No traditional exams
- 2.75 minimum GPA required
- Active RN license needed
- Per credit tuition $377.04
- Dedicated student advisors
- Flexible degree completion
Fast & Affordable Program Options
One of the best decisions a nurse can make in their career is getting their bachelor’s degree. With a bachelor’s degree in nursing, nurses can pursue a wide range of higher-paying positions, maintain job security, and are more easily positioned to pursue higher-level degrees such as an MSN or DNP. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get your BSN, RN to BSN programs are specifically designed to lead to graduation sooner than a typical BSN program saving you both time and money.
Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options
A traditional BSN program takes about 4 years to complete, but if you already have your nursing license and a few years of experience, you are eligible to get your BSN in as little as a year through an RN to BSN program. Here are a few of the quickest options for RN to BSN programs in Illinois:
| School | Degree Name | Length |
| Ambria College | RN to BSN | 8 Months |
| University of Illinois | RN to BSN | 1 Year |
Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.
Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?
While no 6-month RN to BSN programs exist in Illinois, there are a select number of these programs available nationwide. These programs can be incredibly intense and will require applicants to have extensive experience in the field, a completed associate degree in nursing, and many transferable credits. If you think you might be eligible for a 6-month RN to MSN program, check with your prospective school’s registrar for more information.
Affordable Online RN to BSN Options
It’s no secret that BSN programs cost a lot of money, but one of the most immediate benefits of an RN to BSN program is its affordability. A traditional BSN program will run you thousands of dollars per year but because an RN to BSN program only takes about half the time (or less) to complete, you can expect to pay half price for your education. Keep in mind that some students may pay more or less than others based on their residency status in Illinois and the cost of other things such as technology fees and textbooks. In terms of tuition, the following are some of the most affordable RN to BSN programs in the state:
| School | Degree Name | Tuition Cost |
| Illinois State University | RN to BSN | $11,524 per year |
| Eastern Illinois University | Online RN to BSN | $8,902 per year |
Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.
Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs
The admissions process for an RN to BSN program is not unlike other accredited college admissions; if you apply within the stated timeframe and meet the requirements, you have a great chance of being accepted. Below are some highlights of entrance requirements in the state:
- Must show proof of current licensure as an RN in the state of Illinois
- Must be a graduate of a state-approved diploma, associate degree program, or foreign nursing program
- Must submit official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 is required
Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?
RN to BSN programs require a mix of non-nursing support courses, general education courses, electives, and nursing courses. Required nursing courses at Romeoville's Lewis University include:
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Concepts of Professional Nursing
- Health Assessment/Health Promotion
- Pharmacotherapeutics for the Registered Nurse
- Professional Development and Leadership
2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in Illinois
Learn about the best accredited RN to BSN degree programs in Illinois by looking at our listings below.
Find RN to BSN Programs By City:
Bourbonnais, IL
Olivet Nazarene University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 16-month Core Program
- 24 Credit Hours
- 45 Practicum Hours
- No Exam Coursework
- Minimum 2.75 GPA Required
- Current RN License Needed
- Multiple Start Dates
Carbondale, IL
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Degree Completion
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN program
- 12-month completion option
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- Flexible curriculum design
- Healthcare management minor available
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Collaboration with healthcare providers
Charleston, IL
Eastern Illinois University
- Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 100% Online Coursework
- 32 Total Credit Hours
- Only $8,902 Tuition
- Three Semester Completion
- Five Annual Start Dates
- Experienced Caring Faculty
- Interdisciplinary Approach
Chicago, IL
Chicago State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program
Campus Based - Website
- 120 total semester hours
- 2.75 minimum GPA required
- Current RN license mandatory
- Campus-based program
- Competitive admission process
- Prerequisite course requirements
- 29 hours of nursing curriculum
Dekalb, IL
Northern Illinois University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN - B.S.)
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online asynchronous program
- 120 credit hours total
- 33 transferable nursing credits
- 8-week course format
- No traditional exams
- 2.75 minimum GPA required
- Active RN license needed
- Per credit tuition $377.04
Jacksonville, IL
Illinois College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN to BSN track
- Holistic nursing framework
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Professional practice preparation
- Flexible learning environment
Joliet, IL
University of St Francis
- Bachelor's - BSN Completion
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- For Experienced RNs
- Leadership Skills Development
- Evidence-Based Curriculum
- Nationally Ranked Nursing Program
Lebanon, IL
McKendree University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN Online)
Online Learning - Website
- Online, flexible 8-week courses
- CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
- $420 per credit hour
- Complete in 3 semesters
- Two local practicum experiences
- Supports career advancement
- No on-campus requirements
- Financial aid available
Lisle, IL
Benedictine University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- 12-month accelerated format
- Competitive private university tuition
- Personalized academic support
- Up to 3 years to complete
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- Minimum 2.5 GPA requirement
- Current RN license required
River Forest, IL
Dominican University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Degree Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- $550 per credit hour
- Complete in 12 months
- Full-time or part-time
- Maximum 3 classes per term
- Financial aid available
- Experienced nursing faculty
- CCNE accredited program
Romeoville, IL
Lewis University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and blended classes
- Up to 12 nursing credit hours
- 2.5 GPA admission requirement
- Midwest top 5 ranked program
- Personalized learning environment
- Holistic patient care approach
- Leadership skill development
University Park, IL
Governors State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- ACEN accredited nursing program
- Prepares nurse leaders
- Affordable public school option
- Career advancement pathway