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.
2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Illinois
Looking for the best online RN to BSN programs in Illinois? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help nurses find the right fit for their career goals. Our list highlights schools offering flexibility, quality education, and support for working nurses. Whether you're advancing your career or seeking new opportunities, our rankings guide you to top choices. Check out our detailed rankings to make an informed decision. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/
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 aiming to elevate their nursing practice to a bachelor's level. This 100% online program is ideal for nurses with an associate degree or diploma, focusing on enhancing leadership, research, and evidence-based practice skills. The curriculum is designed to fit the schedules of working professionals, offering the flexibility needed to balance studies with personal and professional commitments. With a nationally recognized nursing program, students are prepared to meet the complexities of modern healthcare environments. Highlights include an evidence-based curriculum and leadership skill development, making it a standout choice for advancing nursing careers.
- 100% Online Program
- For Experienced RNs
- Leadership Skills Development
- Evidence-Based Curriculum
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL - Private 4-year - olivet.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Olivet Nazarene University offers an RN-BSN online program tailored for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers without pausing their professional lives. This 16-month, 100% online program emphasizes leadership development, ethical nursing practices, and a broader comprehension of healthcare systems. Unique for its no-exam coursework, the program allows nurses to balance studies with work, requiring a minimum 2.75 GPA and a current RN license for admission. With 24 credit hours and 45 practicum hours, graduates are well-prepared for higher-paying roles and further education in nursing. Multiple start dates throughout the year provide flexibility for students to begin their journey towards a BSN at their convenience.
- 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
- Potential Salary Increase
- Pathway to Advanced Degrees
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 is tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their careers with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This CCNE-accredited program stands out for its affordability, with a total tuition of just $8,902, and its efficiency, allowing completion in as little as three semesters. The curriculum is designed to deepen nursing expertise through an evidence-based, interdisciplinary approach, preparing graduates for advanced nursing roles. With 100% online coursework, five start dates annually, and a focus on holistic care, students benefit from flexibility and a supportive learning environment. Highlights include a 32-credit hour requirement and experienced faculty dedicated to student success.
- 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
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - Private 4-year - mckendree.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN Online)
Online Learning - Visit Website
McKendree University offers an online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses seeking to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership abilities. This program stands out for its affordability at $420 per credit hour and the flexibility of 8-week courses, allowing students to balance work and study. Accredited by CCNE, it emphasizes practical learning through two local practicum experiences, preparing nurses for advanced roles in healthcare. The curriculum aligns with national health objectives, focusing on reducing disparities and improving care quality. With no on-campus requirements and the possibility of finishing in just three semesters, it's an ideal choice for busy professionals aiming for career growth.
- 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
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 is tailored for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications without pausing their careers. This fully online, asynchronous program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to manage their studies around professional commitments. With a curriculum designed around 8-week courses and no traditional exams, the focus is on practical learning and engagement. The program is not only affordable at $377.04 per credit but also maximizes prior learning by accepting up to 33 transferable nursing credits. A minimum GPA of 2.75 and an active RN license are prerequisites, ensuring a cohort of dedicated professionals. Dedicated advisors support students throughout their educational journey, making degree completion both achievable and rewarding.
- 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