Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Illinois
- 2026 Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Illinois
- Overview of FNP Programs in Illinois
- Admission Requirements
- Curriculum Highlights
- Where Illinois FNP Students Complete Clinicals
- What Makes Illinois a Great State to Study as an FNP?
- How to Choose the Best FNP Program in Illinois
- Tips for Succeeding in an Illinois FNP Program
- FAQ
- Latest Articles & Guides

Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is one of the most flexible and rewarding advanced-practice pathways for Illinois nurses who want a deeper clinical role with increased autonomy. Across Illinois, from Chicago and Rockford to Peoria and Carbondale, hospitals, clinics, and community health centers rely heavily on FNPs to expand access to primary care.
Use this guide to understand what to expect from FNP programs in Illinois, how to choose the right school, and what the state's job market looks like after graduation.
In this article, you'll learn:
- How FNP programs in Illinois are structured (online, hybrid, and campus-based)
- Typical admission requirements for Illinois programs
- Where students complete clinical rotations in the state
- FNP salary and job outlook in Illinois
- Tips for choosing the best FNP program for your goals
2026 Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in Illinois
Bradley University
Peoria, IL - Private 4-year - bradley.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online MSN-FNP program offers three distinct pathways for ADN, BSN, and MSN holders, requiring a 3.0 GPA and active nursing license. The curriculum includes 74 credits for ADN, 65 for BSN, or 44 for MSN certificate tracks, featuring five clinical practicums in advanced health assessment and pharmacology. This program addresses primary care shortages and prepares graduates for certification without requiring an entrance exam, focusing on flexible online learning for working nurses.
- Online MSN-FNP program
- Three educational pathways
- 74 credit hours for ADN track
- 65 credit hours for BSN track
- 44 credit hours for MSN certificate
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Active nursing license needed
- Five clinical practicums
- Addresses healthcare population needs
- Accredited nursing program
RN to MSN - RN to MSN-FNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online RN to MSN-FNP program provides flexible pathways for ADN, BSN, and MSN holders, focusing on family nurse practitioner roles with courses in Advanced Pathophysiology and Pharmacology. Admission demands a valid RN license and 3.0 GPA, incorporating clinical practicums to enhance skills for high-demand primary care careers, and does not require an entrance exam.
- Online program format
- Flexible pathways for ADN, BSN, MSN
- Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical practicums included
- Requires valid RN license
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Accredited program degrees required
- Advanced Pathophysiology course
- Advanced Pharmacology course
- High-demand career field
MSN to DNP - DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online DNP-FNP track transforms BSN-prepared nurses into advanced leaders over approximately 3.7 years, with 1,000 clinical hours and no campus residency. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and healthcare policy, it requires a 3.0 GPA but no entrance exam, equipping graduates for certification exams and roles in primary care, technology, and leadership across diverse settings.
- 100% Online Program
- 3.7 Year Completion Time
- 1,000 Clinical Hours
- BSN Required for Admission
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- No Campus Residency
- Prepare for Certification Exams
- Advanced Nursing Leadership
- Evidence-Based Practice Focus
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP-FNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online BSN to DNP-FNP program prepares nurses for family practice leadership in 3.7 years through 1,000 clinical hours and no residency. It covers advanced physical assessment, pharmacology, and healthcare technology, requiring a BSN, RN license, and 3.0 GPA but no entrance exam, and readies graduates for AANP or ANCC certification in evidence-based care.
- 100% online learning
- No campus residency required
- 3.7 years to complete
- 11 semesters duration
- 1,000 clinical hours
- Focus on family nurse practice
- BSN and RN license required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission
- Prepares for AANP/ANCC exams
- Leadership in healthcare policy
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL - Public 4-Year - niu.edu
BSN to MSN - M.S. in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern Illinois University's online M.S. in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers flexible part-time or full-time study, requiring 50 credits at $749.75 per credit over up to six years. The program emphasizes strong clinical partnerships and dedicated faculty support, leading to a 95% job placement rate. Applicants must hold a BSN and RN licensure, with clinical internships mandatory. Fall and spring application deadlines are July 15 and January 9, respectively. No entrance exam is required for this master's program.
- Online master's degree format
- Family Nurse Practitioner specialization
- 50 total credit hours
- Part-time or full-time options
- Six-year program completion window
- Tuition per credit: $749.75
- 95% job placement rate
- Fall application deadline: July 15
- Spring application deadline: January 9
- Requires RN licensure
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Illinois University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides advanced leadership training through online and in-person components. The program requires 64-73 credits for BS to DNP or 33-51 credits for MS to DNP at $773.32 per credit, featuring preceptor placement assistance and dedicated scholarships. With a top 10% national nursing school ranking and 95% job placement within one year, it focuses on evidence-based healthcare practices. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral program.
- Online and hybrid program delivery
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- 64-73 credits for BS to DNP
- 33-51 credits for MS to DNP
- Dedicated scholarship funds available
- Preceptor placement assistance
- Top 10% national nursing school ranking
- 95% job placement within one year
- Practice-oriented curriculum
- Specialized clinical practicums
BSN to DNP - BS-DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Illinois University's hybrid BS-DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration blends online coursework with in-person practicums, requiring 64-73 credits at $773.32 per credit. Designed for working professionals, it offers flexibility and hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, supported by an evidence-based curriculum. The award-winning School of Nursing boasts high job placement rates and national recognition. Admission requires a bachelor's in nursing, with no entrance exam specified.
- Hybrid program delivery
- Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
- 64-73 credits for BS-DNP
- $773.32 per credit tuition
- High job placement rate
- Award-winning School of Nursing
- Evidence-based curriculum
- In-person practicum experiences
- Flexible for working professionals
- Recognized national rankings
Illinois State University
Normal, IL - Public 4-Year - illinoisstate.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Illinois State University's Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a flexible hybrid format with partial online delivery. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, this 44-credit, 660-clinical-hour program spans 2-3 years, focusing on preventative care and acute/chronic condition management. It prepares students for FNP certification with small class sizes and preceptor support. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
- Partially online delivery format
- 44 credit hours total
- 660 clinical practice hours
- 2-3 year completion time
- Fall term start date
- Priority application: Oct 1 - Feb 1
- Full application period: Oct 1 - June 1
- Preparation for FNP certification
- Small class sizes
- Preceptor assistance available
RN to BSN to MSN - Nursing (MSN) - Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Visit Website
Illinois State University's MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner program uses a hybrid model with on-campus and online components. It includes 44 credits and 660 clinical hours over 2-3 years, focusing on preventative care and health condition management. Clinicals are Illinois-based, and the program prepares for FNP certification without requiring an entrance exam for this master's level offering.
- Hybrid learning model
- 44 credit hours
- 660 clinical hours
- 2-3 year completion
- Partially online
- Reasonable tuition rates
- Skilled FNP faculty
- Student-centered learning
- Clinicals in Illinois
- Fall term start
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN - DNP): Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner program at Illinois State University features a hybrid learning model blending online and on-campus instruction. Students can achieve FNP certification mid-program, supported by a 99% national exam pass rate. It emphasizes comprehensive health management and requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure, with no entrance exam needed for this doctoral program.
- Hybrid learning format
- 99% national certification rate
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- Mid-program FNP certification
- Doctoral-prepared faculty
- Comprehensive health management training
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- CCNE/ACEN accredited BSN required
- RN licensure mandatory
- Professional references needed
DePaul University
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - depaul.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner Track, Nursing (MSN)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
DePaul University's Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across the patient lifespan through a hybrid program format. Students complete 500 clinical training hours and rigorous coursework covering population health, pathophysiology, and ethical practice. This program emphasizes evidence-based care and includes bridge options for ADN students, with no entrance exam required for admission.
- Online MSN program
- 500 clinical training hours
- National certification preparation
- Multiple course tracks available
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Comprehensive population health curriculum
- Bridge courses for ADN students
- Includes pathophysiology training
- Research and technology components
- Ethical nursing practice emphasis
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
DePaul University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration focuses on developing advanced clinical expertise in comprehensive patient assessment and management of acute/chronic illnesses. This 60-credit program includes specialized practicums in women's health, maternal-child care, and adolescent treatment while emphasizing evidence-based practice and population health. No entrance exam is required for admission to this doctoral-level program.
- 60-credit advanced nursing program
- Family Nurse Practitioner specialty
- Comprehensive clinical practicums
- Population health focus
- Advanced clinical management training
Millikin University
Decatur, IL - Private 4-year - millikin.edu
MSN to DNP - DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Millikin University's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a hybrid format with flexible full-time or part-time options, ideal for working nurses. It requires 50-70 credit hours and over 800-1200 clinical practice hours, preparing graduates for national certification. Admission mandates a 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and graduate-level statistics, with no entrance exam specified. The program emphasizes evidence-based healthcare to address nursing shortages and improve patient outcomes.
- Hybrid learning format
- Full-time and part-time options
- 70 credit hours maximum
- 1000+ clinical practice hours
- January program start
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Online first-year core classes
- Advanced statistics prerequisite
- NursingCAS application process
- Professional RN licensure required
BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Millikin University's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program features a hybrid model blending online coursework with faculty-arranged clinical rotations totaling 1,000+ hours. It boasts a 100% career-placement rate and offers full-time or part-time study for BSN or MSN holders. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and RN license, with no entrance exam mentioned. The Performance Learning curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice to enhance clinical skills and patient care.
- Hybrid learning format
- 1,000+ clinical hours
- 100% career-placement rate
- Full-time or part-time options
- Clinical rotations arranged by faculty
- BSN or MSN entry paths
- Performance Learning curriculum
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- RN license required
- Evidence-based practice focus
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
RN to BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Lewis University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration equips nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages. This program develops advanced competencies in health assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based management of acute and chronic conditions. Offered through flexible online formats with full-time or part-time options, it accommodates working professionals and provides employer tuition discounts. Admission requires a BSN, current RN licensure, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and no entrance exam is specified for this master's level program.
- Online format available.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Flexible full-time or part-time.
- Employer tuition discounts.
- Requires BSN and RN licensure.
- 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Focus on diagnostics and prevention.
- Ethical healthcare practices.
- Designed for working professionals.
- Advanced nursing skills.
North Central College
Naperville, IL - Private 4-year - northcentralcollege.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Central College's Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a hybrid format with 47 credits over nine semesters, blending online coursework with 2-3 campus visits. Students complete 525 clinical hours to develop skills in diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions across all life stages. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and holistic admissions, requiring a 3.0 GPA, BSN from an accredited program, and an unencumbered RN license. No entrance exam is required, and competitive tuition with up to 25% scholarships enhances accessibility, preparing graduates for national certification and independent practice.
- 47 credit hours, 9 semesters
- Online program with 2-3 campus visits
- 525 clinical practice hours
- Tuition potential scholarships 25%
- Holistic admission approach
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- BSN from accredited program
- Current unencumbered RN license
- National certification eligibility
- Independent practice potential
University of St Francis
Joliet, IL - Private 4-year - stfrancis.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of St. Francis offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed for working healthcare professionals seeking flexibility. This CCNE-accredited program features competitive tuition at $799 per credit and can be completed in 24-48 months, with options for online and in-person learning. Students develop expertise in evidence-based practice and specialized care for diverse populations, preparing for AANP certification. The program emphasizes flexible scheduling with 16-week cycles and new cohorts each semester, and it does not require an entrance exam.
- Online and in-person options
- $799 per credit hour
- 24-48 months program length
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- CCNE accredited program
- AANP certification eligible
- Flexible sixteen-week cycles
- New cohorts every semester
- RN to BSN to MSN pathway
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL - Private 4-year - olivet.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Olivet Nazarene University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program is designed for registered nurses advancing to primary care. This CCNE-accredited program requires 52 credit hours and 720 clinical hours over 36 months, with a $690 per credit hour tuition. It emphasizes national certification preparation and offers multiple start dates, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. The curriculum focuses on diagnosing, treating, and promoting health across diverse populations, with no entrance exam specified.
- 100% Online Program
- 52 Total Credit Hours
- 720 Clinical Hours Required
- 36-Month Completion Timeline
- Tuition: $690 Per Credit Hour
- National Certification Preparation
- Transfer Friendly Program
- Multiple Start Dates Available
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Requirement
- CCNE Accredited Program
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - uic.edu
MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago's hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for independent primary care practice across all patient ages. This part-time program features a blended learning format ideal for working professionals, with faculty-arranged clinical sites and preceptors ensuring comprehensive hands-on training. Graduates benefit from a 100% certification exam pass rate and strong preparation for serving underserved communities. The master's level program requires an entrance exam.
- Part-time blended learning format
- 100% certification exam pass rate
- Faculty-arranged clinical sites
- Prepares for independent practice
- Lifespan primary care focus
Overview of FNP Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers a range of MSN-FNP and DNP-FNP pathways designed for ADN, BSN, and MSN-prepared nurses. The majority of programs blend online coursework with in-state clinical preceptorships, making them accessible to working RNs.
FNP programs in Illinois emphasize:
- Primary care for patients across the lifespan
- Health promotion and disease prevention
- Chronic disease management
- Leadership and evidence-based practice
- Serving underserved urban and rural populations
Learn more about Nurse Practitioner schools in Illinois.
Common FNP Program Formats in Illinois
| Program Type | Who It's For | Typical Length | Illinois Availability |
| MSN-FNP | BSN-prepared nurses | 2–3 years | Widely available (Chicago, Springfield, Peoria, online) |
| BSN to DNP (FNP) | Nurses seeking the terminal degree | 3–4 years | Offered at major universities |
| RN to MSN (FNP track) | ADN/ASN nurses | 3–4 years | Select hybrid programs |
Admission Requirements
While requirements vary by school, most Illinois FNP programs require:
- An active Illinois RN license
- A BSN degree (or MSN for certificate programs)
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Professional references
- A current résumé or CV
- Undergraduate statistics
- Background check and immunizations
Optional but beneficial: Recent RN experience in primary care, med-surg, or community health.
Curriculum Highlights
Coursework is designed to build advanced clinical competence and prepare for national FNP certification. Typical courses include:
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced Health Assessment
- Family Primary Care I–III
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Healthcare Policy and Leadership
Most programs include 600–1,000+ clinical hours, depending on degree level.
Where Illinois FNP Students Complete Clinicals
Programs maintain relationships with clinical partners across the state. Students often complete rotations at:
Chicago Area
- Northwestern Medicine primary care clinics
- UI Health Mile Square Health Center
- Sinai Chicago community health sites
- Advocate Medical Group family practices
Central Illinois
- OSF HealthCare (Peoria, Bloomington, Pontiac)
- Carle Health primary care clinics
- SIU Medicine family medicine sites
Southern Illinois
- SSM Health Medical Group
- Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) clinics
- Rural health centers in Marion, Herrin, and Carbondale
Students may also secure their own preceptors with program approval, particularly common in rural regions.
What Makes Illinois a Great State to Study as an FNP?
Why Choose an FNP Program in Illinois?
- Illinois has multiple urban and rural communities with high primary-care demand.
- Many employers offer tuition assistance, especially large systems like Advocate Aurora and OSF HealthCare.
- Chicago hosts numerous clinical sites in family medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, urgent care, and telehealth.
- Statewide demand for NPs continues to rise, especially in underserved areas.
FNP Job Outlook in Illinois
The demand for Family Nurse Practitioners in Illinois continues to grow due to:
- An aging population
- Shortages in primary-care physicians
- Expansion of community health centers
- Increased need for chronic disease management
According to recent workforce data, NP jobs in Illinois are projected to grow much faster than average through the next decade.
FNP Salary in Illinois
Illinois FNP salaries vary by region. Urban areas often pay higher wages due to demand and cost of living.
Average FNP Salary in Illinois by Region
| Region | Average Annual Salary | Notes |
| Chicago–Naperville–Elgin | ~$120,000 | Highest concentration of FNPs in the state |
| Peoria Region | ~$112,000 | Strong opportunities via OSF and UnityPoint |
| Rockford | ~$110,000 | High demand in outpatient clinics |
| Springfield | ~$108,000 | Many state and public health roles |
| Southern Illinois | ~$102,000 | Strong need in rural health centers |
(Figures based on recent BLS and Illinois workforce data; amounts vary by employer and experience.)
How to Choose the Best FNP Program in Illinois
When comparing Illinois programs, consider these factors:
1. Clinical Placement Support
Some schools provide full placement assistance, while others expect students to arrange their own preceptors.
2. Online vs. Hybrid Format
Most Illinois programs offer online didactic courses with in-person clinicals, ideal for working nurses.
3. Program Accreditation
Choose programs accredited by CCNE or ACEN to qualify for licensure and certification exams.
4. Local Reputation
Well-established schools may offer stronger clinical partnerships with systems like Northwestern Medicine, OSF HealthCare, and Advocate.
5. Certification Pass Rates
High pass rates indicate strong program quality and student support.
Tips for Succeeding in an Illinois FNP Program
- Start securing potential preceptors early, especially in competitive urban regions.
- Ask programs about telehealth clinical options, now offered by many Illinois health systems.
- Consider working part-time; full-time FNP programs can be rigorous.
- Join the Illinois Society for Advanced Practice Nursing (ISAPN) for networking and professional support.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to live in Illinois to enroll in an Illinois-based FNP program?
A: Many programs accept out-of-state students, but clinical placements must typically be completed in Illinois. Some online programs may allow out-of-state clinicals with special approval.
Q: Are there rural-focused FNP programs in Illinois?
A: Yes. Schools in central and southern Illinois often emphasize rural primary care, partnering with clinics in communities such as Marion, Carbondale, and Galesburg.
Q: How competitive are clinical placements in Chicago?
A: Chicago is a high-demand region. Students should secure placements early or choose programs that provide guaranteed placement support.
Q: Are Illinois FNP graduates allowed full practice authority?
A: Illinois allows Full Practice Authority (FPA) after meeting state requirements, including completing 4,000 hours of clinical experience and 250 hours of continuing education under physician collaboration.
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