Nursing Programs in Chicago, IL
Chicago is a fantastic city in which to begin your career in nursing. With one of the highest employment rates of nurses in the country and an average salary of $77,430 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Chicago also has a plethora of nursing training programs for students to choose from. From entry-level programs aimed at those new to the nursing field to career advancement programs for experienced nurses, Chicago has a program that fits your career goals.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:
Entry Level ADN, BSN, & MSN Programs in Chicago, IL
In the Chicago area, there are some entry-level training programs for students who want to become registered nurses. These programs all prepare students to take the NCLEX RN licensing exam for their first jobs as RNs. Program options include LPN to RN bridge programs that help licensed practical nurses become RNs, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, and direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs.
LPN to RN Programs
Transitioning to an RN role is a popular career path for experienced LPNs, and some schools offer special LPN to RN bridge programs to help LPNs take the next step in their careers. Many of these programs provide course credit or proficiency credit for prior LPN coursework, which makes these bridge programs faster to complete than a traditional ADN or BSN program. The LPN to RN program at Ambria College of Nursing is one example of a Chicago area school that provides credit for prior coursework.
ADN Programs
ADN programs are offered at community colleges and vocational schools and provide a foundational education in nursing in around two years of study. Oakton Community College’s ADN program has coursework in nutrition, pharmacology, nursing care concepts, and pediatric nursing.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
Another option for entry-level nursing programs for students new to nursing is traditional BSN programs. BSN programs are typically four-year bachelor’s programs that include liberal arts general education courses and nursing major courses. The BSN program at Robert Morris University in Chicago includes public education and career management coursework in addition to anatomy and physiology, organic chemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, healthcare research, and the fundamentals of nursing careers across the lifespan, community nursing, and leadership.
Find out more about Illinois Accelerated BSN Programs.
Direct-Entry MSN Programs
A less common pathway to becoming a registered nurse is a direct-entry MSN program, which allows students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing subject to earn a master’s in nursing. These programs are a good fit for students who want to transition careers into nursing and would like to make an advanced degree. The direct-entry MSN program at DePaul University is a two-year accelerated program that prepares students for administrative, educational, or advocacy roles in nursing.
Find out more about Illinois Accelerated MSN Programs.
Chicago RN Program NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
| Chicago | Illinois | |
|---|---|---|
| NCLEX-RN Students Total | 3,080 | 6,784 |
| NCLEX-RN Students Passed | 2,565 | 5,649 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | 83.3% | 83.3% |
Top Ranked Accredited Nursing Programs in Chicago
Listed below are the top nursing schools in Chicago 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
- Lewis University - #5
- Oakton Community College - #14
- Rush University - #3
- Trinity Christian College - #1
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Ambria College of Nursing
| 5210 Trillium Blvd Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 (847) 397-0300 |
Benedictine University
| 5700 College Road Isle, IL 60532 (630) 829-6000 |
CAAN Academy of Nursing
| 4747 Lincoln Mall Dr Matteson, IL 60443 (708) 983-1645 |
Chamberlain University
| 3005 Highland Parkway Downers Grove, IL 60515 (877) 751-5783 |
Chicago State University
| 9501 S King Dr Chicago, IL 60628 (773) 995-2000 |
City Colleges of Chicago - Malcolm X
| 1900 W Jackson Blvd Chicago, IL 60612 (312) 850-7000 |
College of DuPage
| 425 Fawell Blvd Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 (630) 942-2380 |
DePaul University
| 2320 N Kenmore Ave Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 687-1000 |
Dominican University
| 7900 West Division Street River Forest, IL 60305 (708) 366-2490 |
Elmhurst College
| 190 S Prospect Ave Elmhurst, IL 60126 (630) 617-3400 |
Harper College
| 1200 W Algonquin Rd Palatine, IL 60067 (847) 925-6000 |
Instituto College
| 2520 S. Western Ave Chicago, IL 60608 (773) 890-0055 |
Lewis University
| One University Parkway Romeoville, IL 60446 (815) 836-5245 |
Loyola University Chicago
| 1032 W Sheridan Rd Chicago, IL 60660 (773) 274-3000 |
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 |
North Park University
| 3225 W Foster Ave Chicago, IL 60625 (800) 888-6728 |
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 |
Prairie State College
| 202 S Halsted St Chicago Heights, IL 60411 (708) 709-3500 |
Rasmussen College
| 1400 West Normantown Road Romeoville, IL 60446 (815) 306-2600 |
Robert Morris University Illinois
| 401 S. State Street Chicago, IL 60605 (800) 762-5960 |
Roosevelt University
| 430 S. Michigan Ave Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 341-3500 |
Rush University
| 600 S Paulina St Chicago, IL 60612 (312) 942-5000 |
Saint Xavier University
| 3700 West 103rd Street Chicago, IL 60655 (773) 298-3706 |
South Suburban College
| 15800 State St South Holland, IL 60473 (708) 596-2000 |
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 Illinois at Chicago
| 1200 W Harrison St Chicago, IL 60607 (312) 996-7000 |
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Chicago, IL
Many ADN-educated nurses decide to go back to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in order to earn a higher salary and move into more senior nursing positions. The best option for these nurses is a special RN to BSN or RN to MSN bridge program that builds on their previous nursing coursework and experience to deliver a higher degree in less time.
RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN bridge programs help nurses with their associate’s degree earn their bachelor’s degree in nursing. Many of these programs are offered online, including the RN to BSN program at Chamberlain University, which can be completed in as little as three semesters of full-time study.
Find out more about Illinois RN to BSN Programs.
RN to MSN Programs
Another option for ADN-educated nurses is an RN to MSN program that provides a master’s degree in nursing without a BSN as a pre-requisite. The curriculum in these programs includes bachelor's level coursework in addition to MSN courses. The RN to MSN program at DePaul University is open to ADN-educated nurses with their bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing subject and includes only three bachelor's level nursing courses before allowing students to progress to masters-level work.
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
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
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
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
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Chicago, IL
For nurses who want to advance beyond their bachelor’s degree and seek leadership positions and advanced certifications, an advanced practice nursing program is the next step. APRN programs in the Chicago area include traditional MSN programs, post-graduate certificate programs, and doctoral programs.
MSN Programs
Traditional MSN programs are designed to prepare nurses with their BSN for advanced practice careers such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, administrators, and clinical nurse leaders. Most MSN programs allow students to concentrate their studies in a particular practice area and prepare students to take the relevant certification exam for that specialty. Lewis University offers an MSN program with specialties in nursing education, healthcare systems leadership, adult/gerontology acute care and primary care nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialist, family nurse practitioner, psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner and school nurse.
Find out more about Illinois Nurse Practitioner Programs.
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Graduate certificate programs are designed to help BSN and MSN-educated nurses become certified in a new specialty of advanced practice nursing. For instance, Loyola University Chicago has graduate certificate programs for BSN-educated nurses in oncology nursing and infection control, as well as APRN programs for nurses with their master’s degrees who would like to be certified as a particular type of nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist.
Find out more about Illinois Post-Master's Certificate Programs.
DNP & Ph.D. Programs
Doctoral programs in nursing are the highest level of education available to nurses. In the Chicago area, nurses can choose from Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) depending on their career goals. DNP programs prepare nurses for independent practice and other leadership roles, and Ph.D. programs prepare nurses for careers in nursing research or academia. Chicago's Rush University offers a variety of DNP specialty programs, as well as a Ph.D. program for interested students.
Find out 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
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
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
North Chicago, IL
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice: Nurse Anesthesia
Concentration: Nurse Anesthesia - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 36-month entry-level DNP program
- Hybrid learning format
- Two campus locations
- Comprehensive clinical residency
- Doctoral project requirement
- National certification preparation
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Simulation and in-person training
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 36-month full-time, 48-month part-time options
- Hybrid online and onsite learning
- Clinical rotations fully coordinated
- Interprofessional education model
- Community mental health focus
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
University Park, IL
Governors State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 540 total clinical hours required
- 44 total credit hours
- Three clinical practice sets
- Across patient lifespan training
- National certification preparation
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Two years clinical nursing experience
- Diverse clinical practice settings
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult/Gerontological Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- 500 clinical hours required
- Multiple nursing concentration options
- Prepares for certification exam
- Baccalaureate nursing degree prerequisite
- 3.0 GPA undergraduate requirement
- Professional nursing licensure needed
- Research and policy courses included
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 24-credit hybrid program
- National median salary $126,260
- 31% job growth projected
- Comprehensive clinical practicums
- Advanced nursing leadership focus
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- Experienced doctorally prepared faculty
- Grade requirements: minimum B
- Doctorate - Nursing Practice, D.N.P.
Concentration: Community Behavior - Campus Based - Website
- DNP Application Deadline: May 1st
- Fall Semester Admission Only
- Community Behavior Concentration
- Advanced Nursing Leadership
- Evidence-Based Practice Focus
- Doctorate - Nursing Practice, D.N.P.
Concentration: Direct Practice - Campus Based - Website
- DNP application deadline May 1st
- Fall semester admission only
- Campus-based program
- Direct Practice concentration
- Advanced nursing leadership track
- Doctorate - Nursing Practice, D.N.P.
Concentration: Leadership/Administration - Campus Based - Website
- Fall semester admission only
- Application deadline May 1st
- Campus-based doctoral program
- Leadership/Administration concentration
- Contact program coordinator available
- Department of Nursing support
- Advanced nursing career pathway