2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
Explore the best online nursing programs in Illinois for 2024 and important steps to advancing your nursing career in the state. We've selected several degrees to consider and have provided NCLEX pass rates from the previous year. For inclusion on our list, the colleges with the best online nursing degrees in Illinois are based on the following criteria:
- The nursing school has a primary location in Illinois.
- The school offers an online bachelor's program in nursing or an online RN to BSN.
- The nursing school has publicly available for the baccalaureate degree level from the previous year. 2023 pass rates are sourced from government reports.
- Either all or the vast majority of coursework is completed online. Many of the best online nursing programs still require some in-person clinical hours, internships, or practicums.
2025 Best Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
| School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Online Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| Western Illinois University | 100.0% | 1,807 |
| Lewis University | 97.78% | 1,332 |
| Methodist College | 95.6% | 41 |
| University of Illinois at Chicago | 94.77% | 4,049 |
| Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing | 93.75% | 141 |
| Illinois State University | 92.59% | 986 |
| University of St. Francis | 92.47% | 1,638 |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | 90.48% | 1,883 |
| Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville | 90.35% | 1,951 |
| Dominican University | 89.66% | 260 |
| Blessing Rieman College of Nursing | 89.13% | 26 |
| Northern Illinois University | 88.42% | 2,208 |
| Chamberlain University | 84.4112% | 24,945 |
| Elmhurst University | 79.63% | 611 |
| St. John's College of Nursing - IL | 78.13% | 8 |
Becoming a Nurse in Illinois
There are over 129,000 registered nurses working in the Prairie State. In order to keep up with the demand of new hires, online nursing programs in Illinois offer a plethora of study options. Regardless of what type of nursing career or nursing degree a student chooses to pursue, Illinois requires extensive healthcare training as well as a state-sanctioned nursing license.
Nursing licenses are distributed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The department awards licenses to registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and advanced practice nurses (APRNs). Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are registered by the Health Care Worker Registry of the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs in Illinois may also offer licensure tracks. But students should ensure that a program specifies this before enrolling.
There is a wide range of colleges and universities to consider when it comes to finding a nursing program in Illinois. The has approved a number of pre-licensure nursing education programs to help students.
To learn about online nursing programs and requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
How To Get CNA Certification in Illinois
A CNA is responsible for helping nurses with their patients. In addition to medical care, a CNA helps patients eat, dress, and bathe. Job opportunities aren't limited to hospitals, either; a CNA can also find work in settings such as long-term nursing homes and home health agencies.
There are several ways to obtain an Illinois CNA license:
- An individual can become a CNA in Illinois after completing a state-approved training program from online nursing schools in Illinois and passing a CNA competency test.
- Another option exists for nurses who have qualified as CNAs through the United States military or through an equivalent program in another state or foreign country. The state can issue an equivalent certificate in these cases.
- Finally, applicants who have previously worked as CNAs in the state but have allowed their registry to lapse may qualify for reinstatement. Once they're approved, CNAs can be added to the Health Care Workers Registry maintained by the Illinois Health Care Worker Registry.
One viable career path for registered Illinois CNAs is that of a medication aide. If candidates hold current CNA licensure and have completed 2,000 hours of practice in the field, they may qualify for this role. Interested applicants will also have to pass the (MACE). Medication aides distribute medications and ensure that patients don't suffer any adverse reactions.
How To Get an LPN License in Illinois
LPNs are medical professionals who perform their duties under an RN or physician. Becoming an LPN requires completing training in nursing techniques to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a clinical setting. Students can achieve this through online nursing programs in Illinois.
Prospective LPNs have two options when it comes to acquiring a license:
- The first is to apply for licensure by examination and take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for practical nursing, known as the NCLEX-PN. This mandatory test is scored on a pass/fail basis.
- The second option is to apply for licensure by endorsement. If an applicant was granted LPN licensure in another state, they may be eligible to apply under these parameters. These applications are online.
In both cases, candidates are expected to submit proof of education, verification of fingerprint processing, and an application fee.
An Illinois LPN license is valid for two years. The renewal date occurs every even-numbered year. Licensed practical nurses who want to work in the state should remember that Illinois does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). As a result, a nursing license specific to Illinois is required for anyone who wants to work as an LPN in this state.
How To Get an RN License in Illinois
The first step to becoming a registered nurse is to acquire the appropriate level of education through online RN programs in Illinois. To become a registered nurse in the state, candidates must earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
Once prospective RNs have finished their education, they can apply for licensure. There are two ways to obtain an Illinois RN license:
- The first is to receive a passing score on the NCLEX-RN.
- The second method is to obtain licensure by endorsement. This applies to nurses who are already registered to practice in another jurisdiction.
Regardless of the licensure method an applicant pursues, an Illinois RN license application requires several accompanying documents: proof of graduation from a nursing school in Illinois or an endorsement from another state, verification of fingerprint processing, and payment of an application fee.
An Illinois RN license is valid for two years at a time. Renewal takes place every even-numbered year. It's also important to note that Illinois does not belong to the NLC, so anyone wishing to practice nursing in the state must obtain an RN license specific to Illinois.
How To Get an APRN License in Illinois
In Illinois, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are called APNs. To earn an APN license, candidates must start with an Illinois RN license. Because an APN employs more sophisticated diagnostic skills in performing their duties, this level of license has a few additional requirements.
The first extra criterion is education. An aspiring APN must hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in nursing. They must also be nationally certified in one of the following specialties: nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, certified registered nurse anesthetist, or clinical nurse specialist. An Illinois APN license requires applicants to submit proof of graduation, an application fee, and verification for any licenses obtained from another state.
The Illinois nursing board has made its available online for the benefit of aspiring APNs.
Because obtaining an APN license may take some time, applicants receive a temporary permit to practice advanced nursing work while an application is pending. These temporary permits are typically valid for six months or until the final APN license is granted. An applicant can finish their application at their convenience.
For students who don't want to renew their nursing license, there are also options for nurses to change careers and work in a similar healthcare or health administration role.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Illinois
Are There Online Nursing Programs in Illinois?
Students can choose from several nursing degree options online in Illinois, including some from nursing schools in Chicago. There are different tracks to choose from, such as an RN to BSN or a CNA track. Some students may choose to pursue an online MSN that continues beyond their BSN or other nursing certifications.
Are There Online ADN and BSN Programs in Illinois?
Several colleges offer online ADN programs in Illinois, such as Danville Area Community College and Lincoln Land Community College. Many students use their ADNs as stepping stones to BSN programs, which are also readily available from community colleges and universities in Illinois.
How Long Does It Take To Become a Registered Nurse in Illinois?
The length of time it takes to become an RN depends on your previous education. High school graduates just starting their nursing career track will likely need two years to complete an ADN and four to finish a BSN. You should also account for a few months to register for the NCLEX-RN, take the test, get your results, and apply for a license.
How Much Does It Cost To Be an RN in Illinois?
Tuitions for RN programs in Illinois can range from $5,000 to well over $30,000. Community colleges tend to feature much lower costs overall, so these might give the most affordable options for earning an ADN.
OnlineU's list of affordable accredited online colleges offers even more resources for the best nursing colleges in Illinois and around the country based on tuition costs.
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
The professors are well informed, kind, helpful, and patient. The online learning experience felt like a real classroom. Coupled with the assistance from the available learning resources at my disposal, my studies became more successful. Despite the huge tuition, I am sure of receiving top quality training. Therefore I look forward to becoming an extraordinary nurse.
Review Date: 2/23/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I learned a great deal completing my BSN. Although able to work in critical care for the past 25+years, the BSN program provided more extensive nursing education in leadership, community health and informatics. If I decide to change positions away from bedside nursing, I'll have more options available. The best part was doing it at my own pace and paying as I go. Thank you Aspen. Also, the instructors were very helpful and supportive.
Review Date: 4/11/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
So, just to start, I had already been a nurse in the field for 8 years before enrolling in their BSN program online. The BSN is a required stepping stone for me to obtain a higher degree level and career within the nursing world. UOP was highly recommended by several of my colleagues, so I decided to try it out. Not only did they provide a massive tuition discount, since my ADN college partnered with their university, but their accreditation was accepted by all CRNA schools, including the state universities... Read More
Review Date: 6/27/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I really had a great experience going through the BSN program. The degree plan was challenging, up to date with practice and very relevant to my career. The program requires self motivation. So if you can't keep yourself on track, this isn't the program for you. The program is mostly comprised of writing research papers. There are online lectures that you can attend or watch recorded. And there are a few testing portions that you can test out of content or take the content and then test. These sections... Read More
Review Date: 1/31/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The nursing program was really good overall but do plan on possibly travelling an hour for clinical sites. The program does not pair students and sites by location but rather a lottery style first come, first serve. Also, there is absolutely NO way to plan the final coal obligations each month. Students who dont receive 100% tuition coverage have different monthly payments month to month which was a horrible experience.
Review Date: 5/15/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I first attended MEC in 2002 for the LPN program at first the program was stressful, demanding and took over my life. I later realized it was the best educational foundation I've ever had. I later went to another school to complete my ASN degree but returned to MEC for my BSN. the program built on the knowledge I'd gain through work experience and education. The instructors are helpful and they will work with you. I wish MEC had a master's program. I would definitely enroll. When you apply the right... Read More
Review Date: 11/15/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Molloy College is a small campus, with limited activities. Classes are not as diverse as they should be for a school located in New York. Nursing is one of the largest programs, it is competitive to enter the program and there are strict grade requirements in order to continue in the program. Tutoring services are available but get filled quickly. There are several part time instructors who are difficult to reach. The nursing lab has helpful instructors and equipment available for practice. The career... Read More
Review Date: 6/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Absolutely the most unbelievably horrible admission's experience ever. Computer registration process is also bad. Undergraduate professors are all different quality and some could care less. The FAU administration should be replaced. Almost no merit aid so most middle class family pay full cost! You can get a better education at a lower price at almost any other college..
Review Date: 6/16/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
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