Best Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs in Illinois | 2025

If you're considering a career change into nursing, Illinois offers several top-ranked Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs designed to fast-track your transition. These programs are tailored for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and are seeking a swift pathway to become registered nurses.

Best ABSN Programs in Illinois - Online & On-Campus

Learn More About Illinois' Top Accelerated BSN Programs

Building on the details shared in the first section, this additional section highlights program features, admission requirements, and other key information to guide your decision-making. Explore what makes these ABSN programs in the Prairie State stand out as you prepare for your nursing career.

Check the section above for information on tuition, accreditation, program formats, ranking criteria, and more.

1. St. John's College of Nursing

St. John's College offers one of the top Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in the state, designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree who are ready to pursue a career in nursing. This intensive, four-semester program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam while equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in the nursing field and make a lasting impact.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 56
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 84%

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Completion of a TEAS ATI exam with a proficient or higher score
• A minimum of 30 semester hours of transferable college credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.75
• A minimum grade of "C" in all prerequisite courses within the last five years
• No lower division nursing courses can be repeated more than one time
• Two professional letters of reference
• Personal essay
• Good academic standing from last school
• Any applicants with English as a second language are required to take the TOEFL. 

Application Deadlines: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those submitted by April 1st.

Financial Aid: St. John's College of Nursing offers a fixed tuition rate, set each Spring and locked for the duration of the student's program, plus one additional year. Financial aid options include the Federal Work-Study program, on-campus student worker positions such as college and library clerks, as well as scholarships for students who demonstrate financial need, academic integrity, and a commitment to the college's values.

2. Lakeview College of Nursing

Lakeview College of Nursing offers an intensive ABSN program that involves 4 consecutive semesters, including a Summer semester on the Danville Campus. The reward for this intensive program is a Bachelor's of Nursing. This program is ideal for those who already have a bachelor's and want to fast-track a shift into a nursing career. 

• ABSN Credit Hours: 60

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree 
• Prerequisite courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Statistics +
• A minimum grade of "C" in all prerequisite courses
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5

Application Deadlines: 

• Fall Semester Start - June 1 
• Spring Semester Start - November 1 

Financial Aid:  Lakeview College of Nursing offers financial aid through scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study positions. FAFSA is required, and students are encouraged to apply early. The Financial Aid Office manages deadlines and provides guidance.

3. Illinois State University

The Mennonite College of Nursing at ISU offers a highly competitive ABSN program that combines rigorous coursework with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art nursing training equipment. Designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree, this full-time, in-person program prepares students to become skilled nurses in just 15 months.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 65
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• Prerequisite Courses: Chemistry, Statistics, Psychology, Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology, Nutrition + 
• Health and safety compliance requirements
• 500-word personal essay 

Application Deadlines: Application for the ABSN program is annually from August 1-October 1. 

Financial Aid: Mennonite College of Nursing offers over 100 private scholarships with one application. FAFSA is optional but limits eligibility for need-based awards. Scholarships are split between fall and Spring semesters, and endowed scholarships are available.

4. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago's Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing offers a highly ranked ABSN program, recognized as one of the most rigorous in the state. Designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree looking to transition into nursing, this 16-month program combines online coursework with in-person learning options. In-person classes take place at the Loyola Health Sciences Campus in Maywood, featuring advanced simulation and virtual reality facilities. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements at top healthcare institutions in Chicago.

• ABSN Clinical Hours: 120 
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93%

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or higher from regionally accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Completion of all prerequisite courses 
• Two letters of recommendation

Application Deadlines:  For information on application deadlines, contact Loyola

5. Lewis University

Lewis University's ABSN program offers two distinct pathways to earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The Career Transition path is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and wish to transition into a nursing career. The Degree Completion program, on the other hand, is for students who have completed their general education and nursing prerequisite courses, allowing them to fast-track their nursing degree without starting from scratch.

The program can be completed in just 5 semesters of full-time study or extended to 7-8 semesters with part-time options. Courses are offered in accelerated 8-week formats, both on-campus and hybrid, with daytime, evening, and weekend options available to accommodate working professionals.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 64
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98%

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
• Complete science and nursing prerequisite courses
• Successfully take and pass the TEAS exam or meet a minimum ACT of 22 or SAT of 1100

Application Deadlines: 

• Fall start application deadline - April 1st
• Spring start application deadline - October 15th 

6. Bradley University

Bradley University's ABSN program focuses on exposing students as soon as possible to as wide a range of healthcare scenarios. This means that clinical experiences start immediately. Over the course of the program these clinical experiences cover all kinds of locations and specializations, providing a truly comprehensive educational experience. This program is designed to be finished in 15 months total.  

• ABSN Credit Hours: 59
• ABSN NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%
• ABSN Graduate Employment: 100% within 6 months

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree 
• Prerequisite Courses: Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Statistics, +
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0

Application Deadlines: Apply online at any time for Summer term start dates each year. 

Financial Aid:  Information on financial aid is available through contacting Bradley University

7. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University's ABSN program at its Illinois campuses in Aurora/Naperville, Mokena/Tinley Park, Rockford, and Romeoville/Joliet offers a rigorous 12-18 month pathway. Students develop essential skills in patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and leadership through on-campus simulations and diverse clinical experiences. The program focuses on QSEN, NLN, and Baccalaureate Essentials competencies, preparing students to make a meaningful impact in nursing.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 43
• Rasmussen, Illinois NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 82%

ABSN Program Admission Requirements: 

• Non-nursing bachelors degree
• Cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher
• Passing ATI TEAS Exam score per Rasmussen's criteria (contact admissions for details)

Application Deadlines: Apply online anytime with rolling admissions and start dates. For upcoming application deadlines, check the RU website.

Financial Aid: Rasmussen University offers various ways to make its ABSN program more affordable, including scholarships, grants, military discounts, corporate alliances, and transfer credit options. Admissions advisors are available to help students explore these opportunities and customize a financial plan.

8. Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville

SIU-Edwardsville's Accelerated Post-Baccalaureate BSN program is one of the top-ranked in the state. Designed to be completed in just 3 semesters and 1 Summer session, this fast-paced program equips students with the skills to drive change and promote health equity in their nursing careers.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 65
• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 79%

ABSN Admission Requirements:

• Completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Prerequisite courses: General education, Biology, Statistics, Philosophy, Chemistry, Psychology +

Application Deadlines: The program begins in August for the Fall semester, with an application deadline of February 1st.

What Is an ABSN Program?

An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program delivers a fast-paced, intensive curriculum that condenses the core content of a traditional BSN into a shorter timeframe. Designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, ABSN programs build on existing academic foundations in science and the humanities to prepare students for RN licensure and entry-level practice.

ABSN Coursework in Illinois

Coursework in Illinois ABSN programs typically includes:

• Foundational Sciences: Anatomy, Microbiology, chemistry, and pathophysiology provide the scientific basis for understanding the human body and medical interventions.
• Pharmacology: Covers drug classifications, mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and side effects to ensure safe and effective medication administration.
• Nursing Theory: Introduces patient care models, professional ethics, and the nurse's role within the healthcare system.
• Nursing Skills: Includes hands-on instruction in patient assessment, wound care, medication administration, and other core clinical tasks.
• Specialized Nursing Areas: Courses in pediatrics, critical care, mental health, labor and delivery, and community health broaden clinical expertise.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Develops the ability to evaluate research and apply evidence-based strategies in clinical settings.
• Leadership: Prepares students to coordinate care, support interdisciplinary teams, and improve healthcare outcomes.

ABSN Clinical Training in Illinois

All ABSN programs in Illinois require in-person clinical training, which generally includes:

• Supervised Clinical Rotations: Students gain real-world experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care settings under the guidance of licensed professionals.
• Diverse Patient Populations: Rotations include exposure to a wide range of health conditions, age groups, and care environments to ensure comprehensive preparation.
• Skill Development: Clinicals reinforce classroom learning through practical application, such as assessments, interventions, and communication with patients and care teams.
• Professional Growth: Students build critical thinking, time management, and advocacy skills essential for success in modern nursing practice.

Can ABSN Programs in Illinois Be Taken Entirely Online?

No, ABSN programs in Illinois cannot be completed entirely online. While some didactic coursework may be offered in a hybrid or online format, all programs require in-person lab work and clinical rotations. These hands-on components are critical for developing clinical competency and meeting licensure requirements.

ABSN Prerequisites & Admission Requirements in Illinois

Before applying to an ABSN program in Illinois, it's important to understand both the prerequisite coursework and admission criteria that most schools require.

ABSN Program Prerequisites in Illinois

Prerequisite courses provide the academic foundation needed for success in an accelerated nursing curriculum. Common prerequisite course requirements for ABSN programs include:

• Science Courses: Anatomy and physiology, Microbiology, and chemistry are typically required to ensure a solid understanding of human biology and health.
• Mathematics: Statistics is often required to support coursework in research, pharmacology, and clinical decision-making.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Psychology, sociology, and similar courses help prepare students for patient-centered care by offering insight into human behavior and social dynamics.

ABSN Admission Requirements in Illinois

In addition to prerequisite coursework, applicants must meet other standard admission criteria, including:

• Completed Bachelor's Degree: A non-nursing bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required for all ABSN applicants.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum cumulative GPA—commonly around 3.0—for both overall and prerequisite coursework.
• Application & Fees: Submission of a formal application along with any required fees.
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually from academic or professional references who can speak to your qualifications and readiness for nursing school.
• Personal Statement or Essay: A written explanation of your motivation for pursuing nursing and your interest in the program.
• Interview: Some schools conduct interviews to assess fit, motivation, and communication skills.
• Background Check & Drug Screening: Required for clinical eligibility due to the nature of healthcare environments.
• Health Clearance: Documentation of immunizations, a physical exam, and other health requirements may be necessary.
• CPR Certification: Proof of current CPR certification—typically through the American Heart Association—is often required prior to clinical placement.

Costs of ABSN Programs in Illinois

The cost of an ABSN program in Illinois varies by institution, program structure, and location. While accelerated programs may appear more expensive per semester, their shorter duration often makes the total cost comparable to traditional BSN pathways. Key expenses typically include:

• Tuition: Rates depend on whether the school is public or private, and whether you qualify for in-state or out-of-state tuition.
• Books and Supplies: Expect additional costs for textbooks, online resources, and classroom materials.
• Clinical Fees: Some schools charge separate fees for clinical placements. Students should also budget for transportation, uniforms, immunizations, background checks, and other clinical-related expenses.
• Medical Equipment: Required purchases often include a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, sphygmomanometer, pen light, and supplies for lab skills such as Foley catheter kits.
• Licensing and Exam Fees: Students must pay for the NCLEX-RN exam and related state licensure fees toward the end of the program.
• Living Expenses: Housing, food, and transportation costs should be considered—especially for students relocating or attending full-time, as most ABSN students do not work while enrolled.

To help offset these costs, explore financial aid, scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement, or loan forgiveness programs available to nursing students in Illinois.

ABSN Salary Expectations in Illinois

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs earn: 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $47.32
• Mean Annual Wage: $98,430.00

RNs in the bottom 10% of the pay scale earn around $66,030 while RNs in the top 10% of the pay scale earn around $135,320 annually.

Top Paying States for RNs

• California: $148,330.00
• Hawaii: $123,720.00
• Oregon: $120,470.00
• Washington: $115,740.00
• Massachusetts: $112,610.00

Typically, there is a noticeable income gap between nurses with an associate degree (ADN) compared to those with a bachelor's degree, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs.

Average ADN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $39.00
• Annual Wage: $80,321.00

Average BSN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $49.00
• Annual Wage: $102,263.00

U.S. States With Highest BSN RN Salaries

• Washington: $115,823.00
• District of Columbia: $115,560.00
• New York: $111,879.00
• Massachusetts: $111,684.00
• Alaska: $110,132.00

By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential.

Importance of Picking an Accredited ABSN Program in Illinois

Choosing an accredited ABSN program in Illinois is crucial for several reasons:

• Ensures Quality Education: Accreditation signifies that the program meets established standards of quality in nursing education, ensuring you receive a robust and comprehensive education that prepares you for the nursing profession.
• Eligibility for Licensure: Graduating from an accredited ABSN program is often a requirement to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is necessary to obtain your nursing license and practice as a registered nurse.
• Transferability of Credits: If you decide to further your education, credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted by other institutions, making it easier to pursue advanced degrees in nursing.
• Employment Opportunities: Employers often prefer or require nurses to have graduated from accredited programs, as it assures them that the candidate has received a quality education and is well-prepared for the demands of the job.
• Access to Financial Aid: Many forms of federal and state financial aid, as well as scholarships, are only available to students enrolled in accredited programs, making it easier to finance your education.

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Top Accelerated BSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best ABSN programs in the following states:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top-ranked ABSN programs in Illinois?

Some of the top Accelerated BSN programs in Illinois include those at St. John's College of Nursing, Lakeview College of Nursing, Illinois State University, Loyola University Chicago, and Lewis University. These schools rank highly based on NCLEX-RN pass rates, clinical experience, and student outcomes.

How long do ABSN programs in Illinois take to complete?

Most Illinois ABSN programs are designed to be completed in 12 to 18 months. Programs like those at Bradley University and SIU Edwardsville are structured for completion in about 15 months, while others may vary slightly based on course load and clinical scheduling.

What entrance exams are required for Illinois ABSN programs?

Only some Illinois ABSN programs require applicants to take the ATI TEAS or HESI entrance exam. Passing scores vary by school, so it's important to check specific program requirements.

Are there any affordable ABSN programs in Illinois?

llinois State University and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offer some of the lowest estimated tuition rates for ABSN programs in the state—$30,030 and $28,380.