Best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in Illinois | 2026

Illinois is home to some of the most respected healthcare institutions in the Midwest, making it a strong choice for nurses pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). From large academic medical centers in Chicago to statewide health initiatives, the state offers unique opportunities for clinical training and leadership development.

This guide highlights the best dnp programs in Illinois for 2026. It covers admissions, tuition, specialties, and how these programs prepare nurses for advanced roles in Illinois' evolving healthcare system.

Best DNP Programs in Illinois — Online & On-Campus

What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A DNP program in Illinois prepares nurses to lead clinical teams, improve care systems, and influence health outcomes across one of the largest healthcare hubs in the Midwest. Illinois is home to nationally ranked hospitals, including Rush and UIC Medical Center, and it has one of the country's largest Medicaid populations, shaping much of the DNP training around access, health equity, and chronic disease management.

Programs like those at Rush University and University of Illinois Chicago include hands-on training in advanced simulation labs, partnerships with statewide health networks, and final projects that often address care coordination, quality improvement in hospital settings, or patient outcomes linked to state-funded programs.

DNP Program Curriculum 

The DNP program curriculum equips nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership, focusing on areas such as advanced practice nursing, healthcare policy, leadership, evidence-based practice, informatics, and quality improvement. Coursework is designed to build expertise in these areas, with specific courses varying based on the nurse's chosen pathway and specialty.

Clinical training is an integral part of the DNP program, requiring 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. This training includes a capstone project that addresses a real-world clinical problem through evidence-based solutions. The project not only hones clinical skills but also contributes to advancing nursing practice by sharing findings with the broader nursing community.

DNP Program Pathways

The two main pathways to achieving a doctor of nursing practice degree are:

• BSN to DNP: For RNs with a bachelor's in nursing. 
• MSN to DNP: For RNs with a master's in nursing.

An alternative and less traditional pathway is the Direct Entry DNP Program, designed for non-nurses. 

DNP Program Specialty Concentrations

Nurses pursuing a DNP degree open doors to diverse career options. The specific roles available will be contingent upon the chosen DNP pathway. For example, opting for an administrative pathway may preclude the possibility of working as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) NP. However, selecting an APRN pathway with leadership course components can pave the way for fulfilling leadership roles in addition to the ability to work as an advanced practiced RN. 

Nursing Leadership Roles for DNP Graduates 

• Healthcare and Nursing Administration
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Patient Care Director
• Healthcare Informatics
• Professor of Nursing Clinical Education
• Healthcare Lobbyist
• Healthcare Policy (state and national)

APRN Roles for DNP Graduates

• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

Where Do DNP-Prepared Nurses Work?

Depending on your chosen specialization, DNP-prepared nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Primary Care Clinics
• Specialty Clinics
• Universities or Academic Institutions
• Public and Community Health
• Policy and Advocacy Organizations
• Private Practice
• Research Facilities

Can DNP Programs Be Taken Entirely Online in Illinois?

DNP programs in Illinois are not fully online but many use hybrid formats with minimal on-campus requirements. Schools like the University of Illinois Chicago offer online coursework combined with in-person simulation labs and project presentations. Rush University delivers most content online but requires short campus visits for skills assessments and final defenses.

Some post-MSN programs, like those at Loyola or Bradley, include one or two in-person sessions each semester. While you can complete most of the academic work remotely, all programs still require in-person clinical hours and occasional campus-based components.

DNP Program Admission Requirements

DNP programs typically require the following for admission: 

• Required degrees (BSN, MSN, or equivalent)
• At least one year of RN experience
• Active and unrestricted RN license
• Compliance with state licensure guidelines (varies with program clinical requirements)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (varies by program)
• Minimum GPA from previous nursing programs (varies by program)
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) (requirement varies on program and previous education)

Beyond nursing education and experience, additional admission requirements for DNP programs typically include: 

• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement or Essay
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Background check and drug screening
• Physical health exam and up-to-date immunizations

It is prudent for prospective DNP students to confirm the admission requirements for each DNP program before submitting an application. 

DNP Graduate Salary Expectations in Illinois

DNP graduates in Illinois can expect salaries that vary based on the chosen specialty concentration and role upon graduation. To give you a clearer understanding, we've compared the salaries of top DNP roles in Illinois with the national averages, highlighting how they compare.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Salary in Illinois

• Mean Hourly Wage: $61.96
• Mean Annual Wage: $128,880

National Nurse Practitioner Pay Range

• Low: $97,960 or $47.10 per hour
• Mean: $132,000 or $63.46 per hour
• High: $169,950 or $81.71 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Practitioners

• California: $173,190
• New York: $148,410
• Oregon: $148,030
• Massachusetts: $145,140
• Washington: $143,620

Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Illinois

• Mean Hourly Wage: $122.29
• Mean Annual Wage: $254,350

National Nurse Anesthetist Wage

• Low: $137,230 or $65.98 per hour
• Mean: $231,700 or $111.39 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Anesthetists

• Massachusetts: $292,390
• Washington: $276,110
• Alaska: $268,970
• New Jersey: $268,310
• New York: $266,710

Nurse Midwife

Nurse Midwife Salary in Illinois

• Mean Hourly Wage: $51.58
• Mean Annual Wage: $107,280

National Nurse Midwife Wage

• Low: $74,670 or $35.90 per hour
• Mean: $128,110 or $61.59 per hour
• High: $177,040 or $85.11 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Midwives

• California: $179,630
• Massachusetts: $165,820
• Washington: $149,980
• New Jersey: $138,980
• New York: $138,570

Nurse Administrator

Nurse Administrator Salary in Illinois

• Mean Hourly Wage: $65.54
• Mean Annual Wage: $136,320

National Nurse Administrator Wage

• Low: $69,680 or $33.50 per hour
• Mean: $137,730 or $66,22 per hour
• High: $219,080 or $105.33 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Administrators 

• New York: $177,230
• District of Columbia: $176,520
• New Jersey: $169,520
• Washington: $165,140
• Massachusetts: $159,680

Nurse Educator

Nurse Educator Salary in Illinois

• Mean Annual Wage: $83,400

National Nurse Educator Wage

• Low: $47,950
• Mean: $87,090
• High: $130,040

Top Paying States for Nurse Educators

• Oregon: $109,570
• District of Columbia: $107,570
• California: $101,770
• New Jersey: $99,990
• New York: $99,170

As a prospective DNP student, it's important to recognize that salaries can vary widely due to the evolving nature of these roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't differentiate between MSN and DNP salaries, reporting only by job title. This makes it essential for DNP graduates to proactively advocate for higher salaries by highlighting the advanced expertise and leadership skills their degree provides.

Employers may not always recognize the unique skills DNPs bring. To ensure fair compensation, be prepared to negotiate by highlighting how your expertise in improving patient outcomes, leading initiatives, and enhancing efficiency adds value. Demonstrating these skills can justify higher salary demands and secure compensation that reflects your advanced training.

While the salary of the roles we covered are some of the main ones DNPs can fulfill, there are many other opportunities available. For a deeper dive into salaries across different degrees and positions, check out the Nursing Salary Guide or explore Nursing Salaries in Illinois.

Tips to Choose the Best DNP Program

Selecting the right DNP program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High Pass Rates 
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10.  Nursing Clinicals Location
11.  Availability of Online Course

For prospective DNP students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
• Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated DNP program might be the better choice.

DNP Programs Near Me

Discover DNP programs in a state near you:

FAQ and Additional Readings

What's the highest-paying job you can do with a DNP in Illinois?

DNP graduates enjoy a wide array of job opportunities, among which the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) role often ranks as the highest-paying. In Illinois, CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $254,350, making it the top-paying state for this profession in the country.

CRNAs, as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgery. This role demands a high level of expertise and typically requires a DNP degree, whereas other APRN positions might only require an MSN.

Of note, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and nurse administrators, depending on years of experience and specialty, can achieve salaries comparable to those of CRNAs.

Is a DNP worth it in Illinois?

A DNP can be a strong investment in Illinois, especially for nurses aiming to move into advanced practice, leadership, or policy roles. The state is home to major healthcare employers like Advocate Health, Northwestern Medicine, and OSF HealthCare, all of which value doctoral-level training for roles in patient care and system management.

Illinois also ranks among the top-paying states for nurse anesthetists and offers competitive salaries for nurse practitioners and administrators. With increasing demand for providers who can lead quality improvement and manage complex care delivery, a DNP gives nurses in Illinois an edge in both job opportunities and long-term earning potential.

Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Choosing between an MSN and a DNP depends largely on your career aspirations. If your goal is direct patient care as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), an MSN might meet your needs—unless you aim to specialize as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), which requires a DNP. For those drawn to leadership, influencing healthcare policy, or advancing evidence-based practices at an organizational level, or even pursuing academic roles, a DNP could be the better fit.

Ultimately, while an MSN degree prepares you for many of the same roles as a DNP, the DNP degree offers a more comprehensive education, akin to how both an ADN and a BSN prepare you for an RN role but with different depths of preparation.

How are clinical hours arranged in an Illinois DNP programs?

Illinois DNP programs typically require at least 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours, and placements are often arranged by the program in collaboration with local health systems. Students may complete clinical rotations at major facilities such as Rush University Medical Center, UI Health, or Advocate Health sites. Clinical settings range from primary care clinics to specialty practices, and most programs try to accommodate students' locations when assigning placements, especially in online or hybrid formats.

What are housing options like for DNP students in Illinois?

Housing options depend on the school's location. In Chicago-based programs like UIC, Rush, and DePaul, students often rent off-campus apartments or live with roommates in nearby neighborhoods. Some schools offer graduate housing or can connect students with local housing boards. In smaller cities like Peoria (Bradley) or Edwardsville (SIU-E), housing tends to be more affordable and easier to find, with many students choosing to commute from surrounding areas.

Is public transportation easily accessible for DNP students in Illinois?

In Chicago, DNP students attending schools like UIC, Rush, or Loyola have access to the CTA, which includes buses and trains that connect directly to campuses and major hospitals. Many students in these programs rely on public transit instead of driving. Outside of Chicago, such as at Illinois State University or Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, public transit is more limited, and students are more likely to drive to campus or clinical sites.

How much does it cost to live while attending a DNP program in Illinois?

Living costs vary across the state. In Chicago, students should budget for higher rent, transportation, and food expenses, with average one-bedroom apartments often exceeding $1,500 per month. In downstate cities like Bloomington, Peoria, or Edwardsville, housing is significantly more affordable, and students can often rent for less than $900 per month. Most DNP students also budget for textbooks, technology fees, parking, and any reduced work hours due to clinical schedules.

Do DNP programs in Illinois support working students?

Yes, many Illinois DNP programs are built with working nurses in mind. Schools like Bradley, North Park, and Loyola offer part-time or online formats that let students complete coursework while keeping their jobs. While clinical hours and project work still require time outside of work, programs often allow students to schedule these requirements around existing employment. Some employers in Illinois also offer tuition assistance for nurses pursuing a DNP.

What support do Illinois DNP programs offer for clinical placement?

Most Illinois programs help coordinate clinical placements through partnerships with hospitals and health systems across the state. Schools like DePaul and UIC often assign placements at affiliated clinical sites, including academic medical centers, specialty clinics, and outpatient settings. Students are matched based on their specialty track and geographic availability, and many complete hours at facilities where they already work, if approved by the program.

What are common job outcomes for DNP graduates in Illinois?

DNP graduates in Illinois frequently take roles as nurse practitioners, clinical leaders, educators, or administrators. Graduates from Rush or UIC often move into positions within major healthcare systems like UI Health, Advocate Health, and Northwestern Medicine. In high-need areas, there's growing demand for psychiatric mental health NPs and primary care providers. Those with executive or informatics concentrations may step into roles such as patient care directors or chief nursing officers.

How long does it take to complete a DNP program in Illinois?

Program length depends on your education level at entry. BSN to DNP programs in Illinois usually take three to four years of full-time study, while MSN to DNP pathways often take 18 to 24 months. Some schools, like North Park University, offer post-MSN DNP options that can be completed in as few as 20 months. Many Illinois programs also offer part-time tracks to accommodate working nurses.