Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Chicago, Illinois? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near Chicago, Illinois, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in Chicago, Illinois to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
Chicago, Illinois Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in Chicago, Illinois
RN to BSN programs in Chicago, Illinois are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.
RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in Chicago, Illinois
Bridge programs in Chicago, Illinois provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.
University of Illinois Chicago BSN, DNP, MSN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Chicago, Illinois
Provides pathways for nurses at all career stages, from entry-level BSN to advanced practice DNP.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and research to improve patient outcomes, particularly relevant in an urban environment like Chicago.
Offers specialized MSN tracks focusing on areas like leadership, administration, informatics, and specific patient populations (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics).
Prepares graduates to address health disparities and serve diverse communities, given Chicago's diverse population.
DNP programs often include a focus on quality improvement, systems leadership, and policy advocacy.
RN to BSN programs cater to working nurses, typically offering flexible online or hybrid learning options.
Clinical experiences likely take place in a variety of settings, including large academic medical centers, community hospitals, and public health clinics.
Loyola University Chicago BSN, DNP, MSN, Nursing Admin/Leadership Nursing Programs in Chicago, Illinois
Strong emphasis on Jesuit values of social justice and service, integrating ethical considerations into nursing practice.
Potential for specialized tracks within MSN and DNP programs, such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology, or Psychiatric Mental Health.
Opportunities for clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings across the Chicago metropolitan area, exposing students to a wide range of patient populations and healthcare models.
Focus on evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to critically evaluate research and implement best practices in their respective roles.
Nursing Administration/Leadership programs likely emphasize leadership skills, healthcare policy, and financial management necessary for effective leadership roles.
Interprofessional education opportunities, fostering collaboration with students from other health science disciplines.
Graduates prepared for leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, community organizations, and academic institutions.
Nursing Schools in Chicago, Illinois
Address: 1032 W. Sheridan Rd, Chicago, Illinois 60660
City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College Nursing Programs in Chicago, Illinois
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing principles, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric-mental health nursing, and community health nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations, providing hands-on training and patient care opportunities.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills essential for safe and effective nursing practice.
Emphasis on therapeutic communication, patient education, and culturally competent care to meet the diverse needs of patient populations.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation through review courses, practice exams, and individualized support to maximize student success on the licensure exam.
Opportunities for career advancement, with RNs being in high demand across various healthcare settings and specialties.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and the integration of research findings into nursing care.
Nursing Schools in Chicago, Illinois
Address: 1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60612-3197
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Chicago, Illinois?
Nursing schools in Chicago, Illinois offer various programs, including:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.
2. How do I choose the best nursing school in Chicago, Illinois?
When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).
3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.
4. How do I check if a nursing program in Chicago, Illinois is accredited?
You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in Chicago, Illinois.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
The duration depends on the type of program:
CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.
6. Can I complete a nursing program online?
Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.
7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?
The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.
8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?
Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.
9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in Chicago, Illinois?
Nurses in Chicago, Illinois can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.
10. How much do nurses earn in Chicago, Illinois?
Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:
CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.