Top Online RN to BSN Programs Near 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. Learn more about other nursing programs in Chicago.
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 dynamic online BSN Completion Program tailored for experienced registered nurses seeking career advancement. This comprehensive curriculum transforms practicing RNs with associate degrees or nursing diplomas into sophisticated healthcare leaders. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, the program integrates advanced coursework in research methodologies, healthcare informatics, and policy development. Students benefit from a flexible online format that accommodates working professionals, enabling seamless academic progression while maintaining current employment. With a focus on critical thinking and professional development, graduates are equipped to deliver exceptional patient care, drive healthcare innovation, and pursue leadership opportunities across diverse clinical environments. No specific entrance exam requirements are highlighted for this online program.
- 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 provides registered nurses a dynamic hybrid learning opportunity with a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing holistic patient care and leadership development. Tailored for working professionals, the program allows students to earn up to 12 nursing credit hours by leveraging existing clinical experience. With flexible online and synchronous learning formats, nurses can advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments. The program maintains a competitive 2.5 GPA admission requirement and has been recognized as a top 5 RN to BSN program in the Midwest. Military-friendly and rooted in Roman Catholic educational principles, the program prepares nurses to meet evolving healthcare industry demands through personalized, innovative educational approaches.
- 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's RN-BSN Degree Completion Program offers registered nurses a comprehensive online pathway to advance their professional credentials. Tailored for working healthcare professionals holding diplomas or associate degrees, this CCNE-accredited program enables students to elevate their nursing expertise through a flexible curriculum. Students can complete the bachelor's degree in just 12 months, with competitive tuition at $550 per credit hour. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership development, and enhanced professional competencies, positioning nurses for expanded career opportunities. Accommodating both full-time and part-time learners, the program allows a maximum of three classes per term, with comprehensive financial aid options available for qualified students.
- 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 fully online RN to BSN program presents an accelerated and flexible pathway for registered nurses seeking to elevate their professional credentials. The 12-month program uniquely combines comprehensive nursing education with leadership development, enabling working professionals to enhance their clinical expertise without disrupting current employment. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and holistic patient care, students benefit from multiple course delivery formats and personalized academic support. With a competitive private university tuition structure and a minimum 2.5 GPA requirement, the program requires an active RN license and offers students up to three years to complete 86 semester credit hours. The curriculum aligns with Benedictine's Roman Catholic values, preparing nurses to drive innovative healthcare transformations.
- 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 delivers a comprehensive online nursing education tailored for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. The fully online program is ACEN accredited and strategically designed to transform practicing nurses into healthcare leaders. Students can expect a curriculum that emphasizes holistic patient care, critical thinking, and emerging healthcare technologies. The program provides flexibility for professionals balancing work and education, with affordable tuition at a public institution. No specific entrance exam is required, making it accessible for RNs looking to expand their professional credentials and pursue leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings.
- 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.
Learn about other nursing programs in Illinois.
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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