Nursing Programs in Aurora, IL
Though it’s close enough to the Windy City to be considered a suburb yet far enough away to stand as its own metropolitan area, Aurora, Illinois has been repeatedly rated as one of the best communities to live in across the U.S. With long icy winters, Aurora stands firm as the state's second-largest city. The "we're not worthy," sprawling suburb gained notoriety in the 90's hit comedy Wayne's World. New grad nurses who work in Aurora, which is located about an hour west of Chicago, can earn an average of about $68,000 per year according to Salary.com. Illinois is facing a nursing shortage, so RNs are in big demand and have the opportunity to take on overtime hours. APRNs are better positioned to negotiate for higher wages as well as the type of nursing setting they would prefer.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:
Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Aurora, IL
Taking a plunge into a new career can feel scary and intimidating. Yet the field of nursing is easy to enter for those with and without a healthcare background. Aurora, IL, offers several entry-level LPN to RN, ADN, & BSN programs suitable for people in various circumstances. Because nursing is in demand and offers competitive wages, investing in nursing education is a choice that pays off sooner than you think.
LPN to RN Programs
Caring for patients daily is part and parcel of what being a nurse is all about. From providing essential comfort and care to tending to wounds and bandages, Licensed Practical Nurses help patients better cope with their illnesses. LPNs who want to advance their careers and do more for their patients can do so by obtaining their associate degree in nursing. Joliet Junior College, outside of Aurora, IL, offers a hands-on LPN to RN bridge program that lets dedicated LPNs complete their degree in about a year. Affordable and with small cohorts, the bridge program readies students to test for the RN license upon graduation.
ADN Programs
With only a two-year degree, registered nurses can earn a competitive wage and obtain job security that professionals with four-year degrees might envy. Waubonsee Community College, close to Aurora, Illinois, has an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing that prepares students for the theoretical and clinical world of nursing. The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals as well as mental health, women’s health, and advanced concepts. Affordable and pragmatic, the program readies graduates to complete the NCLEX-RN exam.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
Nurses with BSNs are leading the way in advancing the profession; they are at the forefront of evidence-based patient care and treatment. Top hospitals prefer to hire nurses with BSNs, which means they can earn a higher salary and work in selected units right from the start of their careers. Aurora University, headquartered right in the heart of Aurora, Illinois, offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing for students with the long-term commitment and dedication to become a career nurse.
Find out more about Illinois Accelerated BSN Programs.
Aurora RN Program NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
| Aurora | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN Students Total | 2,198 | 6,784 |
| NCLEX-RN Students Passed | 1,853 | 5,649 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 84.3% | 83.3% |
Top Ranked Accredited Nursing Programs in Aurora
Listed below are the top nursing schools in Aurora based on our RegisteredNursing.org RN program rankings for Illinois out of 78 other accredited programs offered in the state:
- Ambria College of Nursing - #4
- College of DuPage - #16
- Dominican University - #18
- Harper College - #20
- Joliet Junior College - #7
- Lewis University - #5
- Oakton Community College - #14
- Trinity Christian College - #1
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Ambria College of Nursing
| 5210 Trillium Blvd Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 (847) 397-0300 |
Aurora University
| 347 S Gladstone Ave Aurora, IL 60506 (630) 892-6431 |
Benedictine University
| 5700 College Road Isle, IL 60532 (630) 829-6000 |
Chamberlain University
| 3005 Highland Parkway Downers Grove, IL 60515 (877) 751-5783 |
College of DuPage
| 425 Fawell Blvd Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 (630) 942-2380 |
Dominican University
| 7900 West Division Street River Forest, IL 60305 (708) 366-2490 |
Elgin Community College
| 1700 Spartan Dr Elgin, IL 60123 (847) 697-1000 |
Elmhurst College
| 190 S Prospect Ave Elmhurst, IL 60126 (630) 617-3400 |
Harper College
| 1200 W Algonquin Rd Palatine, IL 60067 (847) 925-6000 |
Joliet Junior College
| 1215 Houbolt Rd Joliet, IL 60431 (815) 729-9020 |
Lewis University
| One University Parkway Romeoville, IL 60446 (815) 836-5245 |
Moraine Valley Community College
| 9000 W. College Pkwy Palos Hills, IL 60465 (708) 974-4300 |
Morton College | 3801 S Central Ave Cicero, IL 60804 (708) 656-8000 |
Northern Illinois University
| 1425 W Lincoln Hwy DeKalb, IL 60115 (815) 753-1231 |
Northwestern College | 7725 S. Harlem Ave Bridgeview, IL 60455 (888) 205-2283 |
Oakton Community College
| 1600 East Golf Road Des Plaines, IL 60016 (847) 635-1600 |
Rasmussen College
| 1400 West Normantown Road Romeoville, IL 60446 (815) 306-2600 |
Trinity Christian College
| 6601 W College Dr Palos Heights, IL 60463 (708) 597-3000 |
Triton College
| 2000 5th Ave River Grove, IL 60171 (708) 456-0300 |
University of St. Francis
| 500 Wilcox St Joliet, IL 60435 (800) 735-7500 |
Waubonsee Community College | Route 47 Waubonsee Drive Sugar Grove, IL 60554 (630) 466-7900 |
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Aurora, IL
Going back to school to advance your career once meant having to take a leave of absence from work, a luxury many professionals could not afford. Today flexible and distance learning bridge programs have simplified the process of earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or even a Master's of Science in Nursing. Such RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs in Aurora, IL can be completed at the pace, schedule, and timeframe of working nurses.
RN to BSN Programs
Accelerated formats and distance learning options enable working nurses to advance their careers without having to slow down in other areas of their lives. Elmhurst College near Aurora, Illinois offers nursing students an intensive RN to BSN program at a fast-moving 8-week pace. Students complete their courses at a one-class-a-week pace either by attending class on-campus or via a distance learning format. The bridge program requires the completion of 2 onsite clinicals that can be arranged with faculty.
Find out more about Illinois RN to BSN Programs.
RN to MSN Programs
Nurses who know they want to specialize in a nurse practitioner specialty or simply reach higher roles within their organizations may wish to go straight to an RN to MSN program to earn a master's degree. Lewis University near Aurora offers an RN to MSN program where students can choose between the following specialties: Nursing Education, Nursing Administration, or Nurse Practitioner.
Find out more about Illinois RN to MSN Programs.
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
Rush University
- Master's - MSN Nursing Leadership: Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) for RNs
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- Part-time, 2-year duration
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Prepares for CNL certification
- 200 clinical hours included
- Ranked among top programs
- Flexible for working RNs
- Focus on microsystem leadership
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
Elmhurst, IL
Elmhurst University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus format
- 2-year completion
- $25,740 tuition
- Part-time cohort model
- Seven-week intensive blocks
- Clinical courses in year two
- Fall start only
- Accredited by CCNE
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Nurse Administrator - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus format
- 2-year completion
- $25,740 tuition
- Part-time cohort model
- Seven-week intensive blocks
- Nurse Administrator concentration
- Small class sizes
- Personal faculty attention
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Nurse Educator concentration
- Two-year completion
- Part-time cohort model
- Seven-week intensive blocks
- $25,740 estimated tuition
- Accredited by CCNE
- Fall start only
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
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
Naperville, IL
North Central College
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator Track
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- 36 credit hours
- Online program
- 2-3 on-campus immersions
- 500 practicum hours
- BSN required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Scholarships available
- Accredited by HLC
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
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Aurora, IL
Nurses are relied on throughout the healthcare system to treat both acute and chronic illnesses as well as to make crucial decisions regarding a patient’s long term treatment plan. RNs with unencumbered licenses can become leaders and nursing administrators by earning their advanced degrees or certifications. Universities have developed flexible and partially online advanced nursing degrees to accommodate employed RNs. Graduates of such Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs in Aurora, Illinois can also command lucrative compensation and more readily move into healthcare or nursing administration positions.
MSN Programs
Nurses are entering executive roles at hospitals and are training, leading and educating junior-level nurses to perform their job duties at the highest levels. Clinical nurses who are ready to become educators or leaders can earn their Master of Science in Nursing online from Benedictine University outside of Aurora, IL. The Catholic university offers these MSN programs to nurses who are looking to become leaders in the field and transition away from providing individual patient care.
Find out more about Illinois Nurse Practitioner Programs.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Obtaining a second graduate degree in nursing can be costly and time-consuming. A post-grad certificate, however, can be a cost and time-effective way to enter a new specialty within the larger field of nursing. Lewis University outside Aurora, Illinois offers post-grad certs such as Nursing Education, Healthcare Systems Leadership and School Nurse to nurses with existing grad degrees. The certs are designed for busy professional nurses who are seeking a change in their career trajectory from clinical nursing to education or administration.
Learn more about Illinois Post-Master's Certificate Programs.
DNP Programs
When nurses earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees, the apex of the nursing profession, they become leaders both inside and outside the clinical setting. They may advise RNs on patient care treatment options as well as advise policymakers on healthcare delivery options. Located near Aurora, IL, the University of St. Francis, a Catholic institute of higher learning, offers a prestigious DNP to dedicated nurses. The program can be completed partially online and is designed to be convenient for working APRNs.
Learn more about Illinois DNP Programs.
Chicago, IL
DePaul University
- Master's - Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Track
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN specialty track
- 600 clinical practice hours
- Prepares for national certification
- Advanced gerontological nursing focus
- Comprehensive clinical management training
- Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner Track, Nursing (MSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Master's - Nursing Administration Track, Nursing (MSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN Nursing Administration
- Interprofessional health administration courses
- 105-hour leadership practicum
- Graduate certificate option
- Pursue nurse executive certification
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Asynchronous Format
- 11 Courses, 43-44 Credit Hours
- 600 Clinical Practice Hours
- Two Certificate Specialties Available
- Federal Student Aid Eligible
- Strong Alumni Network
- Rolling Admissions Process
- NursingCAS Application Required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 60-credit advanced nursing program
- Family Nurse Practitioner specialty
- Comprehensive clinical practicums
- Population health focus
- Advanced clinical management training
Loyola University Chicago
- Master's - MSN in Nursing and Healthcare Administration
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 39 credit hour program
- Ranked #3 in Chicago nursing
- Tuition $1,240 per credit
- BSN degree required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- 2 recommendation letters
- Professional resume needed
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Certificate Programs
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Multiple nursing certificate tracks
- Advanced practice clinical experiences
- Taught by Loyola faculty
- Post-graduate APRN focus
- Specialized healthcare roles
- Personalized study plans
- Online Oncology Nursing option
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 71 total credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Minimum 2,000 clinical hours required
- Customized clinical placements
- Part-time and full-time options
- Chicago area healthcare partnerships
- Competitive admission process
- RN license prerequisite
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 69 total credit hours
- Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
- Clinical settings: hospitals, community centers
- Competitive admission process
- Focuses on aging population care
- Advanced nursing leadership training
- Evidence-based care approach
- Small class sizes
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Oncology - Campus Based - Website
- 72 semester hour DNP program
- Oncology nursing specialization
- Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
- Competitive admission process
- Chicago metropolitan clinical placements
- Registered nurse prerequisite
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Underserved community focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time and full-time options
- 30 semester hours total
- Two annual immersion weekends
- Online program format
- Post-master's curriculum
- Requires master's nursing degree
- Competitive admission process
- Jesuit educational values
- Doctorate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Blended online/in-person format
- 72 credit hour program
- Part-time and full-time options
- ANCC certification preparation
- Jesuit mission-driven approach
- Clinical rotations in Chicago
- Substance use addiction specialty
- RN license required
- Doctorate - Women's Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 70 total credit hours
- Minimum 2,000 clinical hours
- Competitive admission process
- RN license required
- Advanced women's health focus
- Online and in-person instruction
- Full and part-time options
North Park University
- Master's - MSN/MBA
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Dual MSN/MBA degree option
- Christian liberal arts approach
- Urban health focus
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Leadership and management tracks
- Advanced practice nursing options
- Flexible program structure
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- Evening classes for working professionals
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- State-of-the-art simulation laboratory
- Advanced clinical practice opportunities
- Specialized adult-gerontology focus
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Evening class schedule
- Comprehensive patient care focus
- Advanced practice nursing skills
- Chicago campus location
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Multiple healthcare work settings
- Patient care from infancy to end-of-life
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 36 semester hours total
- 765 clinical practicum hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Multiple healthcare work settings
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP program
- Cohort learning model
- CCNE accredited program
- Workplace-integrated project
- Leadership skill development
- Doctoral-level research support
- Scholarly faculty collaboration
Rush University
- Master's - MSN Nursing Leadership: Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) for RNs
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Part-time, 2-year duration.
- $1,384 per credit hour.
- Two brief campus visits required.
- Clinical experiences at your location.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Focus on evidence-based practice.
- Highly sought-after graduates.
- Graduate Certificate - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate
Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
- Part-time program.
- Minimum 8 months completion.
- Online coursework available.
- Clinical practicum required.
- Two campus visits needed.
- $1,384 per credit hour.
- Prepares for CPNP-AC exam.
- Holistic, family-centered care focus.
- Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Postdoctoral Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Part-time hybrid program
- 1-1.5 year completion time
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Clinical practice in Chicago
- 30-student class size
- Advanced practice nurse training
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally ranked nursing program
- Hybrid learning format
- Part-time and full-time options
- $1,384 per credit hour
- 2-3.5 year program length
- 75% online coursework
- Clinical sites in Chicago area
- Expert practitioner faculty
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner DNP
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally ranked program
- Online coursework available
- Part-time and full-time options
- 3-3.5 year program length
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Tracks for bachelor's/master's nurses
- Preparation for certification exam
- Clinical sites in Chicago area
- Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner DNP
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- RN licensure mandatory
- No GRE scores needed
- Three recommendation letters
- Personal interview required
- Preference for clinical experience
- Doctorate - Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP
Concentration: Neonatal - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and hybrid learning
- Full or part-time options
- 2.5-3.5 years program length
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Small 5-student class size
- AACN curriculum approved
- Clinical experience at RUSH
- Career growth potential
- Doctorate - Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist DNP
Concentration: Pediatric - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online/Hybrid Program
- 2-3.5 Years Program Length
- Full-Time or Part-Time Options
- $1,384 Per Credit Hour
- Small 5-Student Class Size
- Faculty from Rush Medical Center
- Clinical Sites in Chicago
- Tracks for Bachelor's/Master's Nurses
- Doctorate - Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP
Concentration: Primary Care Pediatric - Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP program
- 2-3.5 years completion time
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Full-time and part-time options
- Minimal campus visits
- Pediatric Nursing Certification eligible
- Diverse career opportunities
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Doctorate - Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP
Concentration: Primary Care - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- 2-3.5 year completion time
- Full-time or part-time options
- $1,384 per credit hour
- 40% job growth expected
- Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP
Online Learning - Website
- Ranked #2 nationally
- Online part-time program
- Two to four years length
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Prepares for national certification
- Lifespan psychiatric care focus
- Small 34-student class size
- Faculty are active practitioners
- Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health - Online Learning - Website
- Online part-time program
- $1,384 per credit hour
- 2-4 year completion time
- Ranked #2 nationally
- Prepares for PMHNP certification
- Faculty are active practitioners
- Campus orientation recommended
- Multiple entry pathways
- Doctorate - Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP
Concentration: Systems - Campus Based - Website
- Online, part-time program
- Two-year completion time
- $1,384 per credit hour
- Leadership systems focus
- 24-student cohort model
- Expert nursing faculty
- Top 5 DNP leadership program
- Minimal campus visits
Saint Xavier University
- Master's - MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online with 2 campus visits
- 3-year program, 47 credit hours
- Tuition: $750 per credit hour
- Total approximate cost: $35,250
- Next start date: Fall I - August 25, 2025
- Priority application deadline: July 15
- 600 clinical practicum hours
- 100% national certification exam pass rate
- Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 11 Semester Hour Certificate
- For MSN Graduates
- CCNE Accredited Program
- No. 2 Online Nursing Program
- Prepare for Certification Exams
- Diverse Student Body
- Highly Selective Admissions
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing: Clinical Leader
Online Learning - Website
- Designed for RNs with a master's degree.
- Prepares for Clinical Nurse Leader certification.
- Includes 450 nursing practicum hours.
- Focuses on quality and safety outcomes.
- Curriculum covers advanced pharmacology.
- Advanced pathophysiology included.
- Advanced health assessment course.
- Admission requires 3.0 GPA.
University of Illinois Chicago
- Graduate Certificate - AG-ACNP post-DNP certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Nationally ranked program
- 100% certification exam pass rate
- 23 total semester hours
- 675 clinical training hours
- DNP preparation required
- Fall admission only
- Practicum sites arranged by faculty
- Graduate Certificate - AG-PCNP post-DNP certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 100% graduates' certification exam pass rate
- 675 total clinical hours
- DNP prerequisite required
- Fall semester admission only
- Online and on-site courses
- Faculty-arranged clinical sites
- Graduate Certificate - CNM post-DNP certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- 36 semester hours required.
- 720 clinical hours included.
- Fall admission only.
- Applications August-March.
- Prepares for national certification.
- Focus on women's health.
- Ranked #13 nationally.
- Graduate Certificate - FNP post-DNP certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and on-site format.
- 100% certification exam pass rate.
- Clinical sites arranged by faculty.
- Fall admission only.
- Applications accepted August-March.
- Total 25 semester hours.
- 585 clinical hours required.
- For DNP-prepared nurses.
- Graduate Certificate - PMHNP post-DNP certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and on-site format.
- 100% certification exam pass rate.
- 750 required clinical hours.
- Fall admission only.
- Faculty-arranged practicum sites.
- No financial aid for certificates.
- Tailored for DNP-prepared nurses.
- Comprehensive mental health curriculum.
- Graduate Certificate - PNP-PC post-DNP certificate
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and on-site courses.
- 100% certification exam pass rate.
- Fall admission only.
- Applications accepted August-March.
- 23 semester hours required.
- 675 clinical hours needed.
- Arranged clinicals with preceptors.
- Additional courses for non-APRN certified.
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time hybrid program
- 77 credit hours total
- 1,000 clinical practicum hours
- 675 AGACNP specialty hours
- 100% board certification pass rate
- Clinical sites in hospitals/outpatient settings
- Medicine and surgery specialties
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time hybrid program
- 77 credit hours total
- 1,000 clinical practicum hours
- Faculty-arranged clinical sites
- 100% board certification pass rate
- Care across adult lifespan
- Online and on-campus courses
- Doctorate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time blended learning format
- 100% certification exam pass rate
- Faculty-arranged clinical sites
- Prepares for independent practice
- Lifespan primary care focus
- Doctorate - Nurse-Midwifery / Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Nationally ranked midwifery program
- Hybrid program format
- Comprehensive women's healthcare focus
- Nationally accredited by ACME
- Prepares for dual certification
- Doctorate - Nurse-Midwifery
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16th Ranked Nationwide Program
- Comprehensive Women's Health Care
- Diverse Practice Settings
- UI Health Clinical Placements
- Nationally Accredited Program
- Lifespan Care Approach
- Collaborative Clinical Training
- Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Board certification eligible
- Practice in all 50 states
- Comprehensive pediatric acute care focus
- Clinical sites arranged by faculty
- Doctorate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Clinical sites arranged by faculty
- Comprehensive pediatric care training
- Multiple practice setting options
- Patient-centered care approach
- Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Lifespan-focused mental health curriculum
- Hybrid program format
- National certification preparation
- Multiple practice settings available
- Preference for clinical psychiatric experience
- Doctorate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Primary care for women
- Comprehensive healthcare focus
- Practicum sites arranged
- Specialty practices training
- Health promotion emphasis
Dekalb, IL
Northern Illinois University
- Master's - M.S. in Nursing
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Master's - M.S. in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
Downers Grove, IL
Midwestern University-Downers Grove
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing / Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited program
- 24-month online format
- Covers adolescence to end of life
- Small class size (15 students)
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- High earning potential career
- Interprofessional healthcare training
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 12-month program duration
- Online format
- Small class size
- Focus on adult-gerontology
- Master’s degree required
- Competitive earning potential
- Personalized attention
- Expands scope of practice
Elmhurst, IL
Elmhurst University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website
- Two-year on-campus program
- Three concentration options
- Estimated tuition $25,740
- Part-time cohort model
- CCNE accredited program
- Intensive seven-week blocks
- Fall start only
- Two clinical courses second year
Joliet, IL
University of St Francis
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Master's - Nursing Administration
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- $799 per credit hour
- 24-month program length
- Top-ranked nursing program
- CCNE Accredited program
- State restrictions apply
- Eight-week course cycles
Lisle, IL
Benedictine University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.)
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN program
- Two-year completion time
- CCNE Accredited program
- Nurse Educator concentration available
- Practicum in clinical setting
- Meets AACN master's outcomes
- Two concentration options
- Potential $40k salary increase
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Executive Leader - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN program
- Nurse Executive Leader concentration
- Flexible learning format
- Advanced nursing leadership
- Strategic management focus
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Nurse Executive Leader - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online dual degree program
- Nurse Executive Leader concentration
- 23 total courses
- Less than 4 years completion
- Designed for working professionals
- Graduate Certificate - Post Master's Nurse Executive Leader Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 1.5 semesters
- Three 8-week courses
- $1,500 per course
- No practicum required
- Prepares for certification exam
- Focus on leadership skills
- Financial management training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 40 semester credit hours
- Online and clinical format
- 500 hours clinical experience
- Doctoral-level leadership training
- Cohort-based learning model
- Experienced nurse leader faculty
- DNP project requirement
- Flexible weekly deadlines
Naperville, IL
North Central College
- Master's - MSN: Nurse Educator
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Executive Leader - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration Dual Degree
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 47 credit hours, 9 semesters
- Hybrid online/on-campus program
- 525 clinical practice hours
- Covers primary care lifespan
- Advanced diagnostic skills
- Prescription authorization training
- Holistic admission process
- Multiple scholarship options
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Certificate: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 47 credit hours online program
- 525 clinical practice hours
- 2-3 on-campus immersions
- Unencumbered RN license required
- 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Prescription and therapy authorization
- Accredited by Higher Learning Commission
- Certification exam eligible
Romeoville, IL
Lewis University
- Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio
- Employer tuition assistance
- Advanced patient care skills
- Potential $120K average salary
- Master's - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 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.
- Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post-masters non-degree certificate
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced acute care specialization
- CCNE accredited program
- Prepares for specialized nursing roles
- Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based certificate program
- Prepares NPs for multiple settings
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- Post-master's non-degree option
- Comprehensive patient care focus
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post-Master's Non-Degree Certificates
- Multiple Nursing Specialties Available
- CCNE Accredited Programs
- Minimum 3.0 Graduate GPA Required
- Competitive Tuition Rates
- Employer Tuition Assistance Options
- Alumni 20% Tuition Scholarship
- Graduate Assistantship Opportunities
- Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Multiple nursing specialty tracks
- CCNE accredited program
- Post-masters certificate options
- Employer tuition assistance available
- Online and on-campus formats
- 20% alumni scholarship
- Competitive graduate admissions
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Doctorate - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online DNP coursework
- Hybrid learning format
- Multiple entry levels
- BSN or MSN pathways
- Advanced primary care focus
- Competitive tuition rates
- 15% membership discounts
- 18:1 student-faculty ratio
- Doctorate - BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 76 total credit hours
- Doctoral level nursing practice
- Advanced acute care focus
- Clinical residency included
- Comprehensive healthcare management
- Evidence-based practice training
- Policy and informatics courses
- Healthcare ethics component
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Multiple clinical specialty tracks
- BSN or MSN entry options
- 18:1 student-faculty ratio
- Tuition assistance available
- Immersion events at Oak Brook
- CCNE accredited program
- Interprofessional collaboration focus