The Top Nursing Schools in Illinois of 2024 & 2025

The Top Nursing Schools in Illinois of 2024 & 2025

Illinois boasts RN-to-MSN programs in Chicago and other cities, catering to those who prefer smaller urban environments. Explore the top programs in Illinois for RN-to-MSN and gain insights into the application process and financing options for this significant career move. If you aim to progress from an ADN, explore the array of MSN options available in Illinois. Discover the finest programs and streamline your application process today. Illinois stands out for hosting some of the nation’s premier hospitals and health systems.

We employ a data-centric approach to evaluate and rank the best RN-to-MSN programs in Illinois, simplifying the search for a program that aligns with your goals. Our methodology focuses on crucial student-centric metrics, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Continue reading to delve deeper into the top RN-to-MSN programs in Illinois or proceed directly to our comprehensive list.

What Can You Do With an MSN?

An MSN opens doors to higher earnings, increased professional autonomy, and the ability to diagnose and prescribe for patients. Prepare yourself for roles such as a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse administrator, nurse educator, or clinical nurse specialist.

While Illinois follows a restricted-practice model for NPs, requiring supervision or collaboration with a physician, practitioners often experience greater autonomy and competitive salaries, frequently reaching six figures.

Nursing Education Advancements in Illinois for 2024 & 2025

The conventional route to an MSN involves a BSN-to-MSN pathway. However, if you possess an ADN and relevant experience, consider RN-to-MSN programs available in Chicago and other regions. This accelerated program allows you to earn an MSN in three years without obtaining a BSN first.

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Exploring Specializations and Opportunities

Most individuals pursue an MSN to become nurse practitioners, with family nurse practitioners being a popular choice. Other NP specialties encompass adult-geriatric care, pediatric care, psychiatric-mental healthcare, or neonatal care, offering options in both acute and primary care.

Salary
$99,540-$129,680, BLS

Job Outlook
52% (2020-2030), BLS

Diving into the role of a Nurse Consultant

Nurse consultants leverage their nursing expertise in healthcare and diverse settings such as law, insurance, pharmaceuticals, and government. Many work for law firms, providing insights on nursing practice in cases involving misconduct or medical errors. Additionally, they may serve as expert witnesses during legal proceedings.

Salary
$60,000-$100,000, Payscale

Job Outlook
32% (2020-2030), BLS

The Vital Role of a Research Nurse

Research nurses excel in both nursing and research functions, including statistics, literature reviews, and professional publication writing. Their focus on enhancing nursing and patient outcomes extends to roles in academia, research companies, healthcare firms, or publishing.

Salary
$63,000-$147,000, Payscale

Job Outlook
17% (2020-2030), BLS

What To Look For in an RN-to-MSN Program

Discover crucial details about start dates, credit transfer policies, financial aid availability, and more by contacting the universities featured below.

Key Considerations for RN-to-MSN Programs

When evaluating RN-to-MSN options in Illinois, weigh program quality, reputation, costs, class size, and clinical placement logistics. Personal preferences, including school size, culture, and public vs. private institutions, should also influence your decision.

Admission Requirements

Select a program that challenges without overwhelming. Admission criteria offer insights into the program’s culture, your peers’ backgrounds, and its overall rigor.

Program Curriculum

Unlike undergraduate programs, MSN programs specialize from the outset. If you have a clear preference, choose a school that aligns with your desired NP specialization. For those undecided, opt for a school offering multiple NP specialties for flexibility.

Clinical Experience

Consider the practicalities of clinical placement. Larger cities like Chicago may provide more diverse clinical options compared to smaller locales.

Accreditation

Accreditation serves as a critical marker of program quality. This guide exclusively lists accredited schools, ensuring confidence in your choice of MSN programs in Illinois.

Program Length

Most programs span approximately three years, with some offering part-time options to accommodate working students.

School NCLEX Pass Rate

While the NCLEX-RN pass rate may not directly impact you, it strongly reflects a school’s quality and reputation. Larger programs or well-established schools may offer more reliable pass rate indicators.

School Graduation Rate

Combining graduation rates with board exam pass rates provides a comprehensive view of student success. Smaller schools may exhibit more varied results, particularly during times of disruption like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Navigating the RN-to-MSN Program Application Process

After identifying promising programs, initiate the application process. Allow ample time and seek guidance from a trusted mentor, particularly if they recently graduated from the same institution.

Advise your references about potential contact from the school. Additionally, having someone review your application before submission can be beneficial.

Admission Materials

Include a current, unencumbered RN license, undergraduate transcripts (unofficial copies may suffice for initial applications), two or three references, an application with an essay or personal statement, and a resume or CV.

GPA Requirement

Most RN-to-MSN programs in Illinois mandate a 3.0 GPA. If your GPA falls on the borderline, consult with an admission counselor to discuss potential mitigating factors, such as a strong work history or other qualifications.

Other Requirements

Nearly all schools expect at least one year of RN experience, especially for RN-to-MSN programs, which involve significant on-the-job learning.

Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?

Program accreditation involves a thorough review by representatives from accrediting organizations, assessing all aspects affecting program quality. This guide exclusively features accredited programs, ensuring:

• Accreditation serves as a measure of program quality.
• States and boards typically do not accept applications from graduates of unaccredited programs.
• Credits from unaccredited schools rarely transfer to accredited programs.
• Employers seldom consider graduates of unaccredited programs.
• Choosing accredited programs minimizes unnecessary risks to your time and financial investment.

Paying for RN-to-MSN Programs in Illinois

While an MSN degree can significantly boost your earning potential, financing nursing education, even at in-state public institutions, can be costly. Evaluate tuition and fees, program length, the feasibility of working while studying, and any expenses related to clinicals or on-campus requirements.

Fortunately, various financial aid options exist. In addition to school-based aid, explore scholarships and grants from government agencies, nonprofits, nursing associations, and corporations.

Given the demand for NPs, federal programs offer full scholarships or loan forgiveness for those willing to work in underserved areas, the military, or the Indian Health Service post-graduation.

Discover More About the Premier RN-to-MSN Programs in Illinois

These rankings, provided by NurseJournal.org, present valuable information to guide your decision. Note that this site is supported by advertising, and featured or trusted partner programs contribute to its content. The data is sourced from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) as of the article’s publication date. Specific program details may vary.

#1 Elmhurst University

Location: Elmhurst, IL
Program Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

Founded in 1871, Elmhurst University accommodates over 3,400 students across undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. The Department of Nursing and Public Health offers diverse nursing programs, including an on-campus MSN with full-time and part-time options. The 33-credit MSN encompasses specialties such as nurse administrator, nurse leader, and nurse educator.

For those seeking undergraduate nursing degrees, Elmhurst University provides options like pre-licensure BSN, RN-to-BSN, and online accelerated BSN programs. At the graduate level, the university offers on-campus and online master’s entry in nursing practice degrees, along with a doctorate in nursing practice.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing
Campus: Elmhurst, Illinois
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $789 per credit
Admission Requirements: BSN; official transcripts; minimum 3.0 GPA; valid RN license; three letters of recommendation; goal statement; resume
Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 71% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $81,997 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $38,354
– Out-of-state: $38,354

Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $32,000
– Out-of-state: $32,000

Retention Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 66%
Students Enrolled: 3,421
Institution Type: Private
Percentage of Online Enrollment: 86%
Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

#2 Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus

Loyola University Chicago, recognized as “Chicago’s Jesuit Catholic university,” offers an extensive range of academic programs, including 80 undergraduate majors and 140 graduate, professional, and graduate-level certificate programs.

The School of Nursing at Loyola provides two hybrid pathways leading to an MSN in healthcare and administration: a BSN-to-MSN and an RN-to-MSN. Both options equip graduates with expertise in budgeting, healthcare policy and regulations, and management. The school also offers traditional BSN, RN-to-BSN, and ABSN programs, along with doctoral-level nursing programs.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing
Campus: Chicago, Illinois
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,150 per credit
Admission Requirements: BSN; official transcripts; minimum 3.0 GPA; valid RN license; personal statement; resume
Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 87% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $97,604 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $45,500
– Out-of-state: $45,500

Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $18,594
– Out-of-state: $18,594

Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 71%
Students Enrolled: 16,893
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Methodist College

Peoria, IL
4 years
Online + Campus

Established in 1900, Methodist College offers undergraduate and graduate education in nursing and social work. Although the college lacks a religious affiliation, it maintains a clinical partnership with Carle Health.

At the master’s level, nursing students can enroll in a 35-credit generalist option or nurse educator option MSN. Individuals with bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields may enter its MSN-prelicensure program. Undergraduate nursing degrees include a pre-licensure BSN, an accelerated and second-degree BSN, and an RN-to-BSN.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing
Campus: Peoria, Illinois
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $779 per credit
Admission Requirements: BSN; official transcripts; minimum 3.0 GPA; valid RN license; two letters of reference
Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 81% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,619 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $16,248
– Out-of-state: $16,248

Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $14,850
– Out-of-state: $14,850

Retention Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 88%
Students Enrolled: 595
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Millikin University

Decatur, IL
4 years
Online + Campus

Millikin University, situated in Decatur, Central Illinois, enrolls 1,800 students in over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs.

Its MSN entry program, one of the few accredited degrees of its kind in Illinois, caters to individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. Other master’s level options include MSN nurse practitioner and nurse educator tracks.

Nursing students with BSNs or MSNs can pursue doctor of nursing practice (DNP) completion degrees or a DNP with a family practitioner or nurse anesthesia specialty. Undergraduates may enroll in the traditional direct-entry BSN program.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing
Campus: Decatur, Illinois
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $800 per credit
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; official transcripts; minimum 3.0 GPA; minimum 2.0 in undergraduate prerequisites; written statement resume
Minimum Time Commitment: 26 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 67% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $197,436 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $38,800
– Out-of-state: $38,800

Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $23,733
– Out-of-state: $23,733

Retention Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 71%
Students Enrolled: 1,982
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Saint Anthony College of Nursing

Rockford, IL
4 years Campus

Saint Anthony College of Nursing, a Catholic institution welcoming students of all religious backgrounds, provides several part-time graduate degrees for working RNs.

The MSN features acute and primary care gerontology and family practitioner specialties, along with clinical nurse leader and nurse educator tracks. For those interested in advanced practice, research, or leadership positions, the doctor of nursing practice offers concentrations.

Undergraduate nursing degrees include a traditional four-year BSN, an RN-to-BSN for registered nurses with ADNs, and a 21-month nursing diploma.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing
Campus: Rockford, Illinois
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,014 per credit
Admission Requirements: BSN degree; official transcripts; minimum 2.8 GPA; valid RN license; goal statement; three letters of recommendation; resume
Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 92% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $90,412 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $26,344
– Out-of-state: $26,344

Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $18,252
– Out-of-state: $18,252

Retention Rate: 100%
Admission Rate: 100%
Students Enrolled: 291
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
Accreditation: Yes Higher Learning Commission

Explore Featured Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Gain insights into program start dates, credit transfer options, availability of financial aid, and more by reaching out to the universities listed below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois RN-to-MSN Programs

Is pursuing an RN-to-MSN program worthwhile?

Determining the value of pursuing an RN-to-MSN program is a personal choice. Individuals with MSNs typically enjoy higher earning potential and greater professional autonomy. In the state of Illinois, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) earn an average of $120,470 annually, while Registered Nurses (RNs) earn an average of $78,260 per year, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

What is the typical duration for transitioning from RN to MSN?

Most RN-to-MSN bridge programs in Illinois have an estimated duration of around three years. This timeframe may vary based on factors such as the number of courses taken per term and the length of individual classes. These programs are designed with the assumption that students are balancing their studies with at least part-time employment.

Which type of nurse receives the highest salary in Illinois?

Nurse Anesthetists are the highest-paid nursing professionals in Illinois. The average annual salary for a nurse anesthetist is $250,280, surpassing the average NP salary of $120,470 and tripling the average RN salary ($78,260), according to data from the BLS.

Is it possible to pursue an MSN immediately after completing a BSN?

While many institutions require or strongly recommend one to two years of professional experience, some allow students to transition directly from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to an MSN program. Real-world work experience can benefit both the student and the school in determining the most suitable MSN specialty.