Best BSN Programs in Illinois in 2024 (Online & On-Campus)

Looking for a nursing program in Illinois? You’re in luck. The Prairie State is as beautiful as it is diverse, with metropolitan cities like Chicago and waves of grain across the prairies, Illinois has something for everyone. With a population of over 12 million residents, Illinois is a prime state to earn a BSN in and practice as a nursing professional. All the BSN programs in Illinois are listed below and fully accredited. Aspiring nursing professionals are in great demand in Illinois and have the potential of earning $72K per year upon earning their BSN degree. Nurses can be employed in a variety of settings across the state with the many hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, and in the community. Whether you’re looking for a BSN degree in Chicago or another city in Illinois, you’ll be sure to find an option here.

See below for the top 30 BSN programs in Illinois:

 

1. Trinity Christian College

Trinity Christian College gives students to opportunity to be known and to lead while they are pursuing their education. Graduates that have had mentors and leadership opportunities are better prepared to enter the ever-evolving healthcare industry ready to lead and advance the practice. Nursing students gain hands-on experience through the simulation labs allowing them to perfect their skills in a safe environment. Having been founded on Christian principles, Trinity Christian College embraces those same values through the nursing curriculum, compassion, integrity, and inclusivity are taught alongside critical thinking and nursing theory.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $27,675
• Graduation Rate: 59%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

 

2. Robert Morris University – Illinois

Recently ranked as the most diverse university in the Midwest, Robert Morris University maintains true to its unique teaching model of application and integration of concepts taught in the classroom. Robert Morris remains true to experiential learning and that couldn’t be truer than in the school of nursing where students learn nursing theory, return to state-of-the-art labs for practical use of their classroom knowledge, and then extend their practice during clinical experiences in the community. The school of nursing is fully accredited by the CCNE and graduating nurses ready to lead out with excellent patient care.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $28,250
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 15:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

 

3. Illinois State University

As a top 100 public university in the nation, Illinois State University offers large university opportunities with small college attention and growth. Bloomington-Normal is ranked as one of the best college towns for students that attracts students nationally and internationally. Aspiring nurses can declare their major in nursing as freshmen before they take the necessary prerequisite courses. Students of the BSN program have opportunities to have transcultural nursing experiences during their undergraduate time at the Mennonite School of Nursing.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $14,061
• Graduation Rate: 72%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 18:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

 

4. St. Anthony College of Nursing

Associated with the St. Anthony Medical Center, St. Anthony College of Nursing is on the same campus providing a unique educational experience for aspiring nurses. Students of nursing learn nursing theory and evidence-based research before they practice skills necessary to care for patients competently and compassionately. Students are encouraged to be engaged in their learning experience through open exploration under the guidance of trained and educated professors. Graduates serve in the community and continue with lifelong learning.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $24,314
• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 7:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

 

5. Lewis University

Offering a values-centered curriculum, Lewis University is a private Roman Catholic institution that is home to a highly regarded aviation program. Lewis nursing students stand out from others with their ability to give compassionate care while respecting the dignity of each patient. Graduates gain necessary skills in the state of the art simulation labs and through real-life clinical experiences at various health care settings throughout the community. Graduates become innovative leaders in the nursing profession.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $30,050
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

 

6. Loyola University

As one of the largest Catholic institutions in the country, Loyola University has been in operation since 1870. Whether it is the lakefront property that entices you to come for a tour or the quality education that each student receives, 97% of students that come to see end up staying. Students of the Niehoff school of nursing have opportunities locally and internationally to practice their skills and give aid to those in need. Those aspiring to become nursing professionals have many different paths to achieve that dream. Loyola offers traditional and hybrid programs to enable all students to earn their BSN in as little time as possible.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $42,032
• Graduation Rate: 73%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

 

7. Bradley University

A private, mid-sized institution, Bradley University offers students the same resources of larger universities with the personal attention of smaller universities. The school of nursing is accredited by the CCNE and offers multiple paths for students aspiring to earn their BSN from Bradley. There is a traditional 4-year path and accelerated paths for students that already have their RN or LVN license. Graduates are adequately prepared to enter the profession of nursing with knowledge of nursing theory and nursing practice skills for patient-centered care.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $32,120
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 12:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

 

8. Olivet Nazarene University

Nestled in a park-like campus just 45 minutes form Chicago, Olivet Nazarene University is home to historical and state of the art buildings alike. Students receive a world-class education with opportunities of large universities and small classes and individual attention and mentoring of smaller universities at ONU. With the BSN growing in demand in the nursing industry, Olivet has raised the bar to offer a well-rounded, evidence-based and whole-person holistic approach to educating future nurses.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $33,940
• Graduation Rate: 56%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

 

9. Aurora University

As a private, teaching-centered institute, Aurora University focuses on empowering students to live meaningful and examined lives. Having first opened its doors in 1893 as an institute to prepares ministers, Aurora has since expanded its focus and educational opportunities. The nursing program of Aurora is one of the most respected programs in the area with a rigorous academic backbone combined with state of the art labs where students gain necessary experience and skills before their clinical experiences. Nursing students also network giving them connections to help them be immediately placed in the healthcare system upon graduation.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $25,960
• Graduation Rate: 57%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 17:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

 

10. Dominican University

As a Sinsinawa Dominican-sponsored institute, Dominican University has been preparing students for successful careers and life-long service. Those seeking BSN programs in Illinois can trust Dominican university has a thorough academic curriculum and state of the art labs and simulation experiences that will prepare them for real-life patient-centered care. With a strong foundation in faith and whole-person healing, students will deliver compassionate and empathetic care for individuals, families, and communities. Dominican has a reputation for graduating individuals with a strong science background blended with Christian values.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $31,570
• Graduation Rate: 63%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

 

11. Elmhurst University

A private liberal arts institution, Elmhurst University has a reputation for being service-oriented and is affiliated with the United Church of Christ. As one of the best in the Midwest and one of the best value schools in the country, Elmhurst continues to have small classes where accomplished faculty mentor students. Despite the many recognitions, Elmhurst remains true to keeping the priority always on the students. Nursing students work closely with faculty and gain necessary skills through the state of the art simulation lab as well as gain real-life experience while participating in clinical experiences.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $35,500
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 14:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

 

12. Illinois Wesleyan University

A unique, undergraduate only institution, Illinois Wesleyan University offers a uniquely personalized education with small class sizes. Experiential learning set Wesleyan apart from other institutions, undergraduate students participate in research and most of them also participate in internships. Students pursuing a BSN also have opportunities for research and numerous opportunities for internships in the community working alongside healthcare professionals. The school of nursing prepares students to expand their thinking and become critical thinkers while becoming compassionate care providers simultaneously.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $44,142
• Graduation Rate: 81%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

 

13. Western Illinois University

Founded in 1899, Western Illinois University was founded primarily to educate teachers that have since expanded to interdisciplinary, regional and global perspectives as an institution for higher learning. Benefits of attending the school of nursing at WIU are many it is athlete-friendly, ROTC compatible, with those that already have a current RN degree able to earn their BSN entirely online on their schedule. Students are active learners as they participate in lab simulations where classroom learning meets the practical use of that knowledge.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $12,655
• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

 

14. Trinity College of Nursing

As an institution dedicated to educating health care professionals, Trinity College of Nursing has a long-standing reputation of preparing excellent nurses with a proven track record of excellence. Graduates are prepared to competently function as healthcare providers, managers, and leaders as they provide both direct and indirect care for individuals, families and in the communities. Providing one of the BSN programs in Illinois, Trinity College of Nursing offers multiple pathways for students to earn their BSN, from traditional and accelerated programs.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $27,096
• Graduation Rate: 93%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 8:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

 

15. St. Francis Medical Center College

Graduating some of the nation’s most skilled nursing professionals, St. Francis Medical Center College has focused solely on nursing education for over 100 years. St. Francis is not like any other institution for nursing education, when you enroll you become family, professors care about the student as individuals and mentor them through their entire educational experience and beyond. Special programs are available such as high school juniors able to begin work on their BSN while still in high school, an accelerated BSN program and traditional nursing programs. With a partnership with St. Francis Medical Center, students gain real-life experience giving nursing care to patients in the hospital under the guidance of their mentoring professors.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $14,400
• Graduation Rate: 96%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 9:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92%

 

16. Methodist College

Methodist College has provided quality education in healthcare for over 100 years and continues to do so today. As a private, four-year college that is not affiliated with the Methodist Church but is partnered with UnityPoint Health, students receive a well-rounded education. Through their partnerships, students receive unique clinical opportunities at UnityPoint hospitals and clinics. Nursing students receive a comprehensive education with a strong foundation in the arts and sciences which later helps with holistic nursing practices.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $20,710
• Graduation Rate: 95%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 9:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91%

 

17. Northern Illinois University

Originally founded to produce college-educated teachers, Northern Illinois University has since expanded to become a public research university offering numerous undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students of the nursing program receive a solid foundation in nursing theory clinical experience and personal growth as critical thinkers. Nursing generalists can provide and manage quality care for patients and communicate effectively with their health care team.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $14,204
• Graduation Rate: 49.6% (school-wide)
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 16:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%

 

18. Lakeview College of Nursing

As a single purpose institution, Lakeview College of Nursing exists to educate and prepare future nurses. With that one purpose in mind students receive a very thorough nursing education. Having opened its doors in 1894, Lakeview has evolved with the dynamic health care industry to provide students with evidence-based knowledge and hands-on practice through simulation labs to ensure they are prepared to be employed as a nurse generalist upon graduation. Students enrolling to earn their BSN have four different pathways to guarantee success in as little time as possible.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $13,800
• Graduation Rate: 91%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 8:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88%

 

19. Millikin University

An education that combines learning with performance is what students at Milliken University receive from day one. Since its founding over 100 years ago, the philosophy was to blend theory with practice to create critical thinkers that are well skilled in their career field of choice. This unique approach to education has graduated some of the top nursing professionals and leaders in the industry. Nursing students learn to act using the nursing theory, scientific evidence, and available technology to provide optimal compassionate care for their patients. Graduates have had 100% placement upon graduation from this rigorous program that prepared them to envision and shape the future of nursing.

At A Glance

• Tuition: #1,824
• Graduation Rate: 61%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

 

20. Southern Illinois University

Serving students from diverse backgrounds, Southern Illinois University prides itself on being an inclusive and diverse institution. Ranked among the top five institutions for higher learning for the research done at Southern Illinois University, students have hands-on opportunities to participate in much of that research. Students in the school of nursing directly benefit from the cutting edge research being done on campus. Currently, the school of nursing offers various paths for students to earn their BSN, a traditional tack, accelerated track and a second bachelor’s degree track.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $13,481
• Graduation Rate: 44%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 13:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91%

 

21. Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences

As one of the first accredited nursing schools in the United States, Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences continues to commit to community and quality education. Graduates of Blessing-Rieman learn how to provide compassionate care while focusing on whole-patient wellness. Students benefit from partnerships with health care agencies in the community such as Blessing Hospital, as well as cutting edge nursing research that is implemented into the curriculum.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $17,088
• Graduation Rate: 82%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

 

22. University of Illinois – Chicago

Proudly distinguished as Chicago’s public research university, the University of Illinois-Chicago boasts 33K students, 16 colleges, a hospital, and a complete health sciences system. UIC is also distinguished by its ethnically and culturally diverse campuses placing high value on inclusivity. UIC provides a strong foundation of nursing theory, research-based practice, and experience honing nursing skills in state of the art lab facilities as well as hands-on clinical experience. Aspiring nurses can enroll in the BSN program that fits their needs, as there are different pathways offered to earn a BSN degree from UIC.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $13,664
• Graduation Rate: 60%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 18:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

 

23. St. John’s College of Nursing

St. John’s College of Nursing shares the common values of the Hospital Sister of St. Francis and is committed to excellence. With a proud legacy of preparing compassionate and competent caregivers for over 130 years, St. Francis continues that legacy today. Every nursing program is fully accredited by the ACEN. Students desiring to earn their BSN or another advanced nursing degree from St. John’s will need to have earned their prerequisite liberal arts and science courses from an accredited college or university before enrolling in the BSN program at St. John’s College.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $13,128
• Graduation Rate: 98%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 7:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

 

24. North Park University

Located in the heart of Chicago, North Park University is a private Christian institution that aims to bring affordable, quality education to all who seek it, whether that be on campus, online or a hybrid form. Excellence at North Park means not only a rich foundation in the liberal arts and Christian faith but also excellence in service and learning from the communities in which we live. Incoming students that declare their major can receive direct admission into the school of nursing immediately and receive course direction. Currently, North Park offers an RN to BSN program as well as a traditional BSN program or new students, both are fully accredited through the CCNE.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $27,210
• Graduation Rate: 53.4%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%

 

25. Rockford University

Rockford University has graduated students that have become leaders in the community and the nation with Nobel Peace Prizes, National Championships and more. The nursing cohorts at Rockford are small and students know each other and receive personal attention from their highly accomplished professors. Students learn to provide high-quality care through their knowledge of nursing theory and evidence-based practices for individuals, families, and communities.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $29,180
• Graduation Rate: 74%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 10:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%

 

26. Saint Xavier University

A private Roman Catholic institution in the heart of Chicago, Saint Xavier University has been graduating successful learners and individuals that give back to their community since 1846. With smaller class sizes and an emphasis on academic excellence with service in their community, students of Xavier rise above the rest as natural leaders. The school of nursing is fully accredited by the CCNE and offers traditional BSN programs as well as accelerated programs depending on students’ previous education and experience in the field.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $32,250
• Graduation Rate: 54%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 15:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%

 

27. Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University is a for-profit health care and nursing institution with campuses across the country, with one in Illinois. Chamberlain is one of a few institutions that offer an accelerated three-year BSN program for students with no prior college experience. They also offer RN to BSN programs and advanced nursing degrees either at a physical campus or online.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $19,230
• Graduation Rate: 65%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 11:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 84%

 

28. Resurrection University

With the projected growth of the nursing field exceeding 20% in the next decade, Resurrection University has a vision to help meet that need. As a health science college, professors’ focus is to teach and mentor each student for optimum success. Those seeking a BSN degree have a few options to achieve that, Resurrection offers a traditional path as well as accelerated paths depending on previous education and experience. There are also very flexible evening and weekend programs to enable working students to still attend courses that fit their schedules.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $26,134
• Graduation Rate: 85%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 18:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 73%

 

29. Chicago State University

Chicago State University is a public and affordable institution for higher learning. The school of nursing is fully accredited by the ACEN and prepares students to become nurse generalists upon graduation. Students can exercise competent judgment and give compassionate care while providing health care for individuals, families and in the community.

At A Glance

• Tuition: $10,252
• Graduation Rate: 19%
• Faculty to Student Ratio: 12:1
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 62%

 

Methodology

With so many top-ranked BSN programs in Illinois, aspiring nursing students have a great opportunity to learn among the best nursing professionals and shape the future of nursing in the health care industry.  Whether in the heart of Chicago or on the rural plains, world-class education is within reach for students desiring to begin a successful career. Browse the BSN programs in Illinois and enroll today!

Schools were ranked using a matrix of cost and NCLEX-RN pass rate.