Top Online RN to BSN Programs in Chicago, IL
- 2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Chicago, IL
- The Growing Demand for BSN-Prepared Nurses in Chicago
- What to Look for in an Online RN to BSN Program
- Core Curriculum Topics in RN to BSN Programs
- Career and Salary Outlook for BSN-Prepared Nurses in Chicago
- Financial Aid Options and Tuition Assistance
- Is an Online RN to BSN Program the Right Choice?
- Sources
- Latest Articles & Guides
In 2025, the demand for highly educated nurses continues to climb. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), nearly 80% of healthcare employers now express a strong preference for BSN-prepared nurses. Chicago, home to nationally recognized hospitals and healthcare systems, offers numerous pathways for registered nurses (RNs) to meet this demand. RN to BSN programs in Chicago provide the flexibility to advance nursing credentials while maintaining work and personal obligations.
Choosing the right RN to BSN program is a critical step toward long-term career growth. Chicago — home to the largest concentration of top-ranked hospitals in the Midwest, the historic Illinois Medical District, and world-renowned institutions like Northwestern Memorial and Rush University Medical Center — offers an exceptional environment for nursing advancement. This guide presents the top online RN to BSN programs in Chicago, IL, with detailed comparisons to help prospective students make informed decisions.
2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Chicago, IL
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 BSN Completion Program tailored for RNs seeking to elevate their professional standing. This 100% online program is ideal for nurses with an associate degree or diploma, focusing on enhancing leadership capabilities and integrating evidence-based practices into patient care. The curriculum covers essential areas such as healthcare policy, informatics, and research, preparing graduates for advanced roles in diverse healthcare environments. Notably, the program is designed with the working nurse in mind, offering the flexibility to balance studies with professional commitments. As a nationally recognized nursing program, it stands out for its commitment to developing skilled, compassionate leaders in the nursing field. No entrance exams are required for admission, making it accessible to qualified candidates ready to advance their careers.
- 100% Online Program
- For Experienced RNs
- Leadership Skills Development
- 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's RN to BSN Program stands out for its hybrid format, combining online coursework with synchronous sessions to accommodate working nurses. This program is tailored for RNs aiming to elevate their practice, offering up to 12 credit hours for prior nursing experience. With a focus on enhancing clinical judgment, leadership, and holistic care, it prepares graduates for the increasing demand for BSN-prepared nurses. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA, with no mention of ACT or SAT requirements, reflecting its accessibility for professionals. Recognized among the Midwest's top 5 RN to BSN programs, it emphasizes a personalized learning environment. The program's Roman Catholic affiliation and military-friendly status further highlight its inclusive approach.
- 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
Dominican University
River Forest, IL - Private 4-year - dom.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN Degree Completion Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Dominican University offers an RN-BSN Degree Completion Program tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional standing. This 100% online program provides the flexibility needed for working nurses, with a curriculum focused on enhancing leadership and critical thinking skills. Priced at $550 per credit hour, the program is both affordable and efficient, allowing completion in as little as 12 months. Accredited by CCNE, it ensures a high-quality education without the need for entrance exams. Students benefit from experienced faculty and the option to study full-time or part-time, making it ideal for those balancing work and education.
- 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
Benedictine University
Lisle, IL - Private 4-year - ben.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Benedictine University's RN to BSN online program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional standing. This accelerated program, completable in 12 months, blends flexibility with a rigorous curriculum focused on leadership, evidence-based practice, and comprehensive patient care. Ideal for working nurses, it offers synchronous and asynchronous learning options, requiring a current RN license and a minimum 2.5 GPA for admission. With 86 semester credit hours needed, the program stands out for its competitive tuition and personalized academic support, all while upholding Benedictine values. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for nurses ready to advance their careers in healthcare leadership.
- 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
- 86 semester credit hours needed
- Multiple course delivery formats
Governors State University
University Park, IL - Public 4-Year - govst.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Governors State University's RN to BSN Completion Program is an online offering tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional standing. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to balance studies with work commitments. It focuses on cultivating leadership qualities in nurses, aligning with current healthcare standards and addressing modern challenges in patient care. The curriculum is crafted by seasoned nursing experts, ensuring relevance and quality. Notably, the program is ACEN accredited, a testament to its excellence. As an affordable option at a public university, it opens doors to higher career trajectories in nursing, a field with robust job growth prospects. No entrance exams are required for this online program, making it accessible to a wide range of nursing professionals.
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- ACEN accredited nursing program
- Prepares nurse leaders
- Affordable public school option
- Career advancement pathway
The Growing Demand for BSN-Prepared Nurses in Chicago
Healthcare delivery is evolving, with a greater emphasis on patient safety, evidence-based practice, and complex care coordination. BSN-prepared nurses bring advanced skills in critical thinking, leadership, and public health, making them essential to Chicago’s leading hospitals and clinics.
Chicago’s major healthcare employers, such as Northwestern Memorial, Rush University Medical Center, and Advocate Health, increasingly seek nurses with bachelor’s degrees. Advancing to a BSN can lead to improved patient outcomes, expanded job opportunities, and higher salaries.
What to Look for in an Online RN to BSN Program
Selecting an RN to BSN program requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Each program offers unique features that can impact the educational experience and career trajectory.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures academic quality and eligibility for future graduate studies. Programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) meet rigorous standards.
Flexibility
Flexible scheduling, including asynchronous online formats, allows RNs to balance coursework with professional and personal responsibilities.
Affordability
Tuition rates vary widely. Understanding the full cost of attendance, including fees, materials, and potential financial aid, is essential.
Clinical Requirements
Many programs permit students to complete clinical hours within their current place of employment, minimizing disruptions to work schedules.
Local Partnerships
Affiliations with Chicago healthcare facilities can enhance clinical experiences and provide valuable networking opportunities.
Core Curriculum Topics in RN to BSN Programs
Each RN to BSN program in Chicago shares a common foundation of advanced nursing education. The following table summarizes typical coursework:
| Course | Description |
| Evidence-Based Nursing Practice | Application of research to improve patient care outcomes. |
| Nursing Leadership and Management | Skills for managing teams and healthcare operations. |
| Community/Public Health Nursing | Health promotion and disease prevention in diverse populations. |
| Healthcare Policy and Ethics | Examination of legal, ethical, and policy issues in nursing. |
| Health Assessment for RNs | Advanced patient assessment techniques. |
| Nursing Informatics | Use of technology in patient care and health data management. |
| Research Methods in Nursing | Principles of nursing research and data analysis. |
| Population Health | Strategies for improving community health outcomes. |
These courses build competencies in clinical reasoning, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Career and Salary Outlook for BSN-Prepared Nurses in Chicago
The Chicago metropolitan area offers robust opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for RNs in Chicago exceeds $84,000, with BSN-prepared nurses often commanding higher salaries and expanded roles.
Employment opportunities include leadership positions in hospital administration, clinical nurse leadership, community health coordination, and specialized care units. Top employers in the region include:
- Northwestern Memorial Hospital
- Rush University Medical Center
- University of Chicago Medical Center
- Advocate Health
- NorthShore University HealthSystem
Additionally, a BSN serves as a gateway to advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), and nurse educator positions.
Financial Aid Options and Tuition Assistance
Pursuing an RN to BSN degree represents a significant investment. Fortunately, multiple financial aid resources can offset costs:
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Nursing scholarships
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Public service loan forgiveness for qualifying roles
Many Chicago healthcare employers actively support nursing staff through tuition assistance, reflecting the industry’s commitment to workforce development.
Is an Online RN to BSN Program the Right Choice?
An online RN to BSN program offers a practical solution for registered nurses balancing work, family, and education. These programs provide the flexibility to complete coursework on individual schedules while acquiring advanced skills essential for modern healthcare environments.
Choosing an RN to BSN program is a pivotal step in advancing a nursing career. With multiple accredited online options in Chicago, registered nurses have the opportunity to enhance clinical knowledge, increase earning potential, and open doors to leadership roles in 2025 and beyond.
Researching program specifics, contacting admissions advisors, and exploring financial aid options can help identify the best fit for individual career goals. The journey to a BSN degree offers lasting professional rewards and positions nurses for success in Chicago’s dynamic healthcare landscape. Learn more about diverse nursing careers and specialties to explore long-term possibilities.
Sources
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) – Registered Nurses
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
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