Best Online MSN Programs in Illinois

Bradley University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program offers three distinct pathways for ADN, BSN, and MSN holders to advance their clinical skills. This 100% online program addresses primary care physician shortages through a comprehensive curriculum covering advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and specialized patient care. Students complete five clinical practicums and must maintain a 3.0 GPA with an active nursing license. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program, which prepares graduates for certification and high-demand roles in family practice settings.

• 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

Bradley University's online Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program provides advanced training for healthcare delivery across adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. With multiple entry pathways including RN-MSN and BSN-MSN tracks, this flexible online program features 600 clinical practicum hours in primary care settings. The curriculum emphasizes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning to prepare graduates for certification examinations. This master's-level program requires no entrance exam and is designed for working professionals seeking to enhance their patient-centered care skills in gerontology primary care.

• Online AGPCNP program
• Multiple entry pathways
• 600 clinical practicum hours
• Multiple degree options
• Advanced nursing preparation
• Certification exam eligibility
• Comprehensive patient care focus

Bradley University's online Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for critical care environments. This 100% online program requires 600 clinical hours with qualified preceptors in acute care settings and a BSN from an accredited program with a 3.0 GPA. Graduates become eligible for ANCC certification examinations, positioning them for high-demand hospital roles. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program, which focuses on managing complex health conditions in adult and geriatric populations through specialized acute care training.

• Online MSN specialty track
• 600 clinical practice hours
• ANCC certification eligible
• Acute care nurse focus
• Advanced patient management skills

Bradley University's online MSN Nursing Administration program develops leadership skills for healthcare management roles in just 30-39 semester hours. This flexible online format includes 300 hours of practical experience and prepares graduates for nurse executive certifications from ANCC and AONL. Working professionals can advance their careers without interrupting employment through this comprehensive curriculum focused on healthcare administration. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program, which equips nurses with advanced management capabilities for diverse healthcare settings and executive positions.

• Online MSN Nursing Administration
• 30-39 semester hour program
• 300 hours practicum experience
• Nurse executive certification prep
• Leadership focused curriculum

Bradley University's online RN to MSN-FNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers flexible pathways for ADN, BSN, and MSN holders seeking primary care roles. This 100% online program requires a valid RN license, 3.0 GPA, and accredited degree, featuring clinical practicums and courses in Advanced Pathophysiology and Pharmacology. No entrance exam is needed for this master's-level program, which prepares nurses for certification and high-demand family practice positions through comprehensive training in patient assessment and treatment across the lifespan.

• 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

• 100% online format.
• No campus residency required.
• 56 credit hours.
• Approximately 3 years duration.
• Bridge courses available.
• Local clinicals option.
• Prepares for ANCC exam.
• Focus on acute care.
• Flexible for working nurses.
• Adult and elderly care focus.

• 100% online learning
• No campus residency
• Local clinicals completion
• Choose site preceptors
• RN license required
• Accredited by CCNE
• 39-40 credit hours
• 2.3 years completion
• 350 clinical hours
• Flexible for busy schedules

Chamberlain University's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for primary care roles across all age groups. This 100% online program can be completed in as few as three years with flexible coursework and includes hands-on practicum placements with dedicated advisor support. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. The program integrates board certification preparation and offers financial aid options including scholarships. As the largest MSN FNP program in the U.S., it provides comprehensive training for family-focused care.

• Online program format.
• Finish in 3 years.
• CCNE accredited.
• Largest MSN FNP program.
• Practicum support provided.
• Certification exam preparation.
• Immersion skills event.
• BSN and RN license required.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Transfer credits accepted.

The online MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at Chamberlain University focuses on chronic disease management and wellness for adolescents through older adults. This 100% online program can be completed in as few as 2.5 years and includes practicum components with dedicated support. No GRE is required for admission, which needs a BSN with 3.0 GPA and active RN license. Students benefit from in-person immersion events, board exam preparation, and potential tuition savings through grants and scholarships.

• 100% online coursework.
• Finish in 2.5 years.
• No GRE required.
• BSN and RN license needed.
• 3.0 GPA minimum.
• Dedicated practicum support.
• In-person immersion events.
• Board exam preparation.
• 625 clinical practicum hours.
• Accredited by CCNE.

Chamberlain University's online MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses to diagnose and treat acutely ill adults and older adults. This 100% online program includes 750 clinical hours and can be completed in as few as three years with flexible scheduling. No GRE or entrance exams are required. Admission requires a BSN with 3.0 GPA, active RN license, and one year of RN experience. The program offers dedicated practicum support, in-person immersion events, and board exam preparation while providing tuition savings options.

• Finish in as few as 3 years.
• 100% online coursework with practicum.
• No GRE or entrance exams required.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Multiple start dates available.
• Flexible 24/7 online access.
• Requires BSN with 3.0 GPA.
• Active RN license needed.
• One year RN experience required.
• 750 total clinical hours.

The online MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Chamberlain University prepares nurses to address mental health needs across all life stages. This 100% online program includes 650 practicum hours and can be completed in as few as 2.5 years. Admission requires a BSN with 3.0 GPA and active RN license. Students can save up to $9,168 with grants and prepare for PMHNP board certification. The program includes two in-person visits and provides practicum support for working with diverse populations.

• Online program format.
• Finish in 2.5 years.
• 650-hour practicum.
• BSN and RN license required.
• 3.0 GPA admission criteria.
• Save up to $9,168.
• Financial aid available.
• CCNE accredited.
• Prepares for board certification.
• Two in-person visits required.

Chamberlain University's online MSN Nurse Educator program prepares nurses to teach future healthcare professionals through curriculum development and instructional strategies. This 100% online program includes a 144-hour practicum and can be completed in as few as two years with flexible deadlines. No entrance exams are required. Admission needs a BSN with 3.0 GPA and active RN license. Financial aid options include scholarships and grants, with the program offering a pathway to DNP and focusing on non-clinical education roles.

• 100% online coursework.
• Finish in as few as 2 years.
• 144-hour practicum component.
• Flexible deadlines for nurses.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• No exams, assignments only.
• Doctorally prepared faculty.
• Practicum support provided.
• Requires BSN and RN license.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required.

• 100% online coursework.
• Finish in as few as 2 years.
• 144-hour practicum included.
• No exams, assignment-based.
• Flexible deadlines for nurses.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires BSN and RN license.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA needed.
• Doctorally trained faculty.
• Dedicated practicum support.

• Complete in as few as 2 years.
• 100% online coursework.
• Includes practicum component.
• Flexible deadlines for nurses.
• Dedicated practicum support.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires BSN degree.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA needed.
• Active RN license required.
• Over 90% receive financial aid.

The University of St. Francis offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing advanced practice nurses for specialized patient care across diverse populations. This CCNE-accredited program features flexible sixteen-week cycles and new cohorts every semester, with a competitive tuition of $799 per credit hour. The program typically takes 24-48 months to complete and does not require an entrance exam. Graduates are eligible for AANP certification, and the program is military-friendly with online and in-person options available.

• 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

University of St. Francis provides an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program designed for working nurses seeking advanced mental health practice. This flexible program prepares nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with complex mental health needs across various settings. With a tuition of $799 per credit hour and a 24-48 month completion time, the program does not require an entrance exam. Graduates are eligible for certification through AANP or ANCC, and the CCNE-accredited program offers multiple clinical concentrations in a flexible learning environment.

• Online and in-person options
• $799 per credit hour
• 24-48 month program length
• CCNE accredited program
• Certification exam eligibility
• Multiple clinical concentrations
• Flexible learning environment

The University of St. Francis offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Administration concentration, preparing registered nurses for advanced leadership roles in healthcare settings. This program focuses on evidence-based practice, healthcare administration, resource management, and personnel supervision. With a tuition of $799 per credit hour and a 24-48 month completion timeframe, the program does not require an entrance exam. The CCNE-accredited program features flexible online delivery with new cohorts every semester and is designed to equip nurses with strategic leadership competencies for complex healthcare environments.

• Flexible online delivery format
• $799 per credit hour
• 24-48 month program length
• Prepares nurses for leadership roles
• Evidence-based practice focus
• CCNE accredited program
• New cohorts every semester

Lewis University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner hybrid program prepares advanced nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare to adolescents and adults. Students develop sophisticated skills in patient education, health promotion, diagnostics, and disease prevention through a curriculum with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. This online-hybrid program offers flexible learning options and competitive tuition rates, with potential employer tuition assistance. Graduates can expect enhanced career opportunities with average salaries around $120,000 annually. The program does not require an entrance exam.

• Hybrid program format
• 12:1 student-faculty ratio
• Employer tuition assistance
• Advanced patient care skills
• Potential $120K average salary

Lewis University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Healthcare Systems Leadership concentration prepares nurses for leadership roles through a curriculum focused on management, policy, and healthcare systems improvement. Designed for working professionals with BSN degrees and RN licenses, this fully online program offers flexible coursework that develops practical leadership skills to lead healthcare teams and improve patient care outcomes. The program does not require an entrance exam and provides financial aid options for eligible students.

• Online program flexibility.
• Focus on healthcare leadership.
• Requires BSN and RN license.
• Prepares for management roles.
• Financial aid available.
• Improves patient care outcomes.
• Develops practical leadership skills.
• For working professionals.
• Emphasizes healthcare policy.
• Enhances team leadership abilities.

Lewis University's MSN/MBA dual degree with a Healthcare Systems Leadership concentration combines advanced nursing expertise with strategic business leadership in a hybrid format. This accelerated program equips experienced nurses with comprehensive management skills to transform healthcare systems through innovative strategies, organizational problem-solving, and financial operations management. Designed for working professionals seeking executive-level advancement, the online-hybrid program offers competitive tuition options, employer tuition assistance, and IONL tuition discounts. The program does not require an entrance exam.

• Hybrid flexible format
• Working adult focused program
• Healthcare systems leadership
• Competitive tuition options
• Employer tuition assistance
• IONL 15% tuition discount
• Dual MSN/MBA credential
• Accelerated graduate curriculum
• Advanced nursing management

North Central College's online MSN Nurse Educator program prepares nurses for teaching roles through a hybrid format requiring 2-3 campus visits. This 36-credit program emphasizes interprofessional education, cultural inclusivity, and evidence-based practices while requiring 500 practicum hours. Admission requires a BSN with 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN license, and three recommendation letters, with no entrance exam specified. The program offers tuition reduction opportunities up to 25% and features holistic admissions with Spring/Fall 2025 start dates.

• Online MSN: Nurse Educator track
• Tuition reduction up to 25%
• Holistic admission approach
• Cumulative GPA 3.0 required
• Three recommendation letters needed
• Spring/Fall 2025 start dates
• Unencumbered RN license required
• Campus visits 2-3 times
• Interprofessional curriculum
• Evidence-based practice focus

The Family Nurse Practitioner MSN at North Central College is a 47-credit hybrid program blending online coursework with 2-3 campus visits and 525 clinical hours. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses with 3.0 GPA and current RN license, it prepares graduates for primary care across all life stages with eligibility for national certification. No entrance exam is specified. The program offers competitive tuition with potential 25% scholarships and features a holistic admission approach focusing on diverse, supportive learning environments.

• 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

North Central College's online MSN-MBA dual degree program prepares nurses for executive leadership roles through 36 credits and 500 clinical hours. This fully online program with asynchronous delivery develops skills in healthcare systems management, strategic planning, and organizational transformation. Admission requires BSN with 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license, with no entrance exam specified. The program offers scholarships up to 25% and features a holistic admissions process, making it accessible for nurses seeking advanced business and clinical leadership education.

• Online with 2-3 campus visits
• 36 credit hours total
• 500 practicum hours required
• Dual MSN-MBA option available
• Scholarships up to 25%
• Holistic admissions process
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• Unencumbered RN license needed
• Asynchronous course delivery

The hybrid MSN Nurse Executive Leader concentration at North Central College prepares nurses for strategic healthcare leadership through 36 credits and 500 practicum hours. Combining online coursework with 2-3 campus visits, the program focuses on organizational management, executive decision-making, and healthcare system transformation. Admission requires BSN with 3.0 GPA and current RN license, with no entrance exam specified. Total direct costs are approximately $30,094, and the program offers advanced healthcare management skills for those seeking executive nursing roles.

• 36 credit hours, 6 semesters
• Online with 2-3 campus visits
• 500 clinical practicum hours
• Nurse leadership focus
• Total direct costs $30,094
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Current RN license needed
• Hybrid program format
• Advanced healthcare management skills

North Central College's online MSN Nurse Educator Track prepares BSN nurses for teaching roles through 36 credits and 500 practicum hours, with 2-3 on-campus immersions. The program focuses on curriculum development, teaching innovation, and health policy, requiring 3.0 GPA and unencumbered RN license with no entrance exam specified. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, it offers personalized learning with tuition reduction opportunities up to 25%, designed for nurses aiming to educate future healthcare professionals in diverse settings.

• 36 credit hours
• Online program
• 2-3 on-campus immersions
• 500 practicum hours
• BSN required
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Scholarships available
• Accredited by HLC
• Focus on Nurse Educator
• Personalized approach

DePaul University's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across the lifespan. This hybrid program requires no entrance exam and emphasizes rigorous coursework with 500 clinical training hours, preparing graduates for national certification. The curriculum focuses on population-specific healthcare approaches, advanced clinical management, and includes bridge courses for ADN students. As a military-friendly institution with Roman Catholic affiliation, it offers a flexible online format with multiple course tracks.

• 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

DePaul University's online Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner MSN track prepares nurses to become advanced primary care specialists for adult and older adult populations. This fully online program requires no entrance exam and includes 600 clinical hours, positioning graduates for national certification. Designed for working professionals, it focuses on gerontological care, clinical management, and advanced pharmacotherapeutic interventions. The military-friendly program with Roman Catholic affiliation combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to address complex health needs in aging populations.

• Online MSN specialty track
• 600 clinical practice hours
• Prepares for national certification
• Advanced gerontological nursing focus
• Comprehensive clinical management training

DePaul University's online Master of Science in Nursing Administration Track prepares dynamic healthcare leaders for complex management roles without requiring an entrance exam. This online program enables graduates to pursue national nurse executive certification through a curriculum that integrates interprofessional health administration courses and a 105-hour leadership practicum. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, it develops expertise in healthcare management, strategic planning, and evidence-based leadership. The military-friendly program with Roman Catholic affiliation offers a graduate certificate option for flexible career advancement.

• Online MSN Nursing Administration
• Interprofessional health administration courses
• 105-hour leadership practicum
• Graduate certificate option
• Pursue nurse executive certification

Northern Illinois University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Education concentration prepares nurses for advanced roles through a hybrid format. This 38-credit program costs $509.75 per credit and offers part-time or full-time options within a six-year completion window. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, which includes 2,000 clinical hours and internships at partner sites. With fall and spring application deadlines, the program boasts a 95% job placement rate and is military-friendly.

• Online master's degree format
• Nursing Education specialization available
• 38 total credit hours
• Tuition $509.75 per credit
• 6-year program completion window
• Fall application deadline July 15
• Spring application deadline January 9
• Requires 2,000 clinical hours
• Part-time and full-time options
• Internships at clinical sites

Northern Illinois University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides flexible learning for RNs seeking advanced practice roles. This 50-credit program costs $749.75 per credit and can be completed part-time within six years. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, which mandates clinical internships and maintains a 95% job placement rate. The program requires current RN licensure and a bachelor's in nursing, with fall and spring application deadlines available.

• 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

Northern Illinois University's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration prepares experienced RNs for advanced clinical roles. This program requires no GRE for admission but needs current RN licensure and a minimum 3.00 GPA. The hybrid format combines online coursework with clinical training, focusing on evidence-based practice and advanced pathophysiology. Designed for nurses with at least one year of clinical experience, the program prepares graduates for certification exams through extensive clinical internships.

• Hybrid program format
• Minimum 5 semester completion
• No GRE required
• Current RN licensure needed
• Advanced clinical training
• Prepare for certification exams
• Extensive clinical internship
• Advanced pathophysiology focus
• Evidence-based practice curriculum

Olivet Nazarene University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Education prepares registered nurses to become certified nurse educators through a 100% online format. This 30-month program requires 36 credit hours at $690 per credit hour, totaling approximately $12,000. The curriculum emphasizes innovative teaching strategies, learning theories, and includes two practicum courses totaling 150 hours with self-selected preceptors. Admission requires a BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is mentioned as required. The program is CCNE accredited and prepares graduates for the Certified Nurse Educator exam, featuring 8-week accelerated classes and multiple start dates annually.

• 100% Online Program
• 30 months program length
• $12K total tuition
• 8-week accelerated classes
• 36 total credit hours
• $690 per credit hour
• Requires BSN degree
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• Two practicum courses
• 150 total practicum hours

Olivet Nazarene University's online Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care. This 100% online program spans 36 months, requiring 52 credit hours and 720 clinical hours at $690 per credit hour. Admission requires a BSN with a minimum 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is specified as required. The CCNE-accredited curriculum focuses on developing skills to diagnose, treat, and promote health across diverse populations, preparing graduates for national certification exams. The program offers multiple start dates, transfer credit options, and is designed for flexible completion while maintaining rigorous clinical training standards.

• 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

The University of Illinois Chicago's online Master of Science in Nursing for Non-RNs is a hybrid program that combines flexible online coursework with essential in-person clinical experiences. Designed specifically for career changers without nursing backgrounds, this program prepares students for advanced nursing roles through comprehensive training in patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, prerequisite courses, and a strong academic record; no entrance exam is specified. Financial aid options help manage costs, making this an accessible pathway for those seeking to enter the rewarding healthcare field.

• Hybrid program format
• For non-RNs entering nursing
• Combines online and in-person learning
• Prepares for advanced nursing roles
• Requires bachelor's degree for admission
• Financial aid options available
• Focus on evidence-based practice
• Includes clinical experiences
• Designed for career changers
• Comprehensive patient care focus

Elmhurst University's online Master's Entry in Nursing Practice program is a CCNE-accredited, 20-month intensive pathway for non-nurses with bachelor's degrees to become Clinical Nurse Leaders. This program requires 71 credits and 810 clinical hours, combining online coursework with in-person clinicals and one residency. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA and 22 prerequisite credits in sciences and statistics, but no entrance exam is needed. Designed for full-time commitment with two annual start dates, it prepares graduates for RN licensure and CNL certification through rigorous NCLEX-RN exam preparation and simulation lab training.

• 20-month program length.
• Online coursework format.
• In-person clinical hours.
• One on-campus residency.
• 71 credit hours total.
• 810 clinical hours required.
• CCNE accreditation.
• Clinical Nurse Leader focus.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• 3.2 minimum GPA.