Best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in Illinois | 2025

Discover the top Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in Illinois, including curriculum details, admission requirements, salary expectations, and advice for choosing the right program for your career aspirations.

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Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

Obtaining a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is among the highest achievements for nursing students, and doing so requires thorough research of programs, their requirements, and career outlooks before applying.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know about DNP programs in Illinois, along with the best programs available in the state.

Best DNP Programs in Illinois — Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 Midwestern University, Downers Grove

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Midwestern University, Downers Grove is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of online programs—including MSN, DNP, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 19555 N 59th Ave, Downers Grove, Illinois 85308, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Medical Schools & Centers
    • 92% Acceptance Rate
    • 89% Graduation Rate
    • 2,758 Graduate Students Enrolled

    Student Demographics

    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 10% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 4% Asian

  2. #2 DePaul University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    DePaul University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, Entry Level Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, DNAP, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1 E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, Illinois 60604, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 70% Acceptance Rate
    • 70% Graduation Rate
    • 13,968 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 6,783 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 72% White
    • 14% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 University of Illinois, Chicago

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Illinois, Chicago is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 79% Acceptance Rate
    • 70% Graduation Rate
    • 21,567 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 11,940 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 47% Men
    • 53% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 69% White
    • 18% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 6% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 University of St Francis

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of St Francis is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 500 N Wilcox St, Joliet, Illinois 60435, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 58% Acceptance Rate
    • 67% Graduation Rate
    • 1,390 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,883 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 33% Men
    • 67% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 2% Asian

  5. #5 Illinois State University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Illinois State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, MSN to PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 86% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate
    • 18,019 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,628 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 Rush University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Rush University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MSN, Entry Level Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, CRNA, CNS, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Medical Schools & Centers
    • 79% Graduation Rate
    • 115 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,755 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 22% Men
    • 78% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 76% White
    • 13% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 6% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 Saint Anthony College of Nursing

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Saint Anthony College of Nursing is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, BSN to DNP, CNL, CNS, DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
    • 88% Graduation Rate
    • 181 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 61 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 10% Men
    • 90% Women
    • 6% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 Lewis University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Lewis University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • One University Parkway, Romeoville, Illinois 60446, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 69% Graduation Rate
    • 3,650 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,580 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 52% Men
    • 48% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 78% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Loyola University Chicago

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Loyola University Chicago is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 79% Acceptance Rate
    • 73% Graduation Rate
    • 11,626 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,196 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 31% Men
    • 69% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 76% White
    • 12% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  10. #10 Bradley University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Bradley University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, Entry Level BSN, LPN to BSN, LPN/LVN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 75% Acceptance Rate
    • 78% Graduation Rate
    • 4,133 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,409 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 49% Men
    • 51% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 86% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  11. #11 Chamberlain University, Illinois

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Chamberlain University, Illinois is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
    • 91% Acceptance Rate
    • 75% Graduation Rate
    • 11,535 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 15,026 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 33 Average Age
    • 11% Men
    • 89% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 80% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 2% Asian

  12. #12 Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, CRNA, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 98% Acceptance Rate
    • 55% Graduation Rate
    • 9,283 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,198 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 86% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  13. #13 Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

    allnurses College Ranking: C
    0 reviews

    Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including DNP, CRNA, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, US
    • 1-847-578-3204

    School Overview

    • Located in Illinois
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Medical Schools & Centers
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 0% Graduation Rate
    • 1,940 Graduate Students Enrolled

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 76% White
    • 12% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 7% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a highly regarded terminal degree in nursing that equips graduates with high-level skills and knowledge. DNP graduates can significantly impact healthcare outcomes through: 

  • Organizational Leadership
  • Program Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Health Policy Implementation
  • Advanced Practice Nursing
Related...
Best DNP Programs | 2025

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. 

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?

Many DNP programs can be taken online. However, it's important to note that these programs may have in-person requirements such as exams, hands-on training, and more, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

DNP programs typically require significant clinical hours that must be completed in person under the supervision of licensed professionals, and all DNP programs culminate in a final project that demonstrates the ability to apply research to practice, which might involve in-person involvement.

Before selecting a program, it's important to research to ensure that it fits your needs, whether entirely online, hybrid, or in-person.

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: $61.01
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $126,900

National Nurse Practitioner Pay Range

  • Low: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
  • Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
  • High: $168.030 or $80.79 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Practitioners

  • California: $161,540
  • Nevada: $148,670
  • Washington: $145,400
  • New Jersey: $145,030
  • Oregon: $144,950

Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Illinois

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $135.21
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $281,240

National Nurse Anesthetist Wage

  • Low: $139,980 or $67.30 per hour
  • Mean: $214,200 or $102.98 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Anesthetists

  • Illinois: $281,240
  • Massachusetts: $272,510
  • Montana: $256,460
  • New York: $256,160
  • Vermont: $254,790

Nurse Midwife

Nurse Midwife Salary in Illinois

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $59.53
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $123,820

National Nurse Midwife Wage

  • Low: $87,320 or $41.98 per hour
  • Mean: $131,570. or $63.26 per hour
  • High: $177,530 or $85.35 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Midwives

  • California: $183,740
  • Hawaii: $161,820
  • Massachusetts: $154,080
  • Maine: $140,440
  • Oregon: $139,490

Nurse Administrator

Nurse Administrator Salary in Illinois

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $63.45
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $131,980

National Nurse Administrator Wage

  • Low: $67,900 or $32.65 per hour
  • Mean: $134,440 or $64,64 per hour
  • High: $216,750 or $104.21 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Administrators 

  • New York: $179,160
  • District of Columbia: $170,710
  • Delaware: $164,190
  • New Jersey: $162,430
  • Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Educator

Nurse Educator Salary in Illinois

  • Mean Annual Wage:: $81,720

National Nurse Educator Wage

  • Low: $49,120
  • Mean: $86,530
  • High: $130,320

Top Paying States for Nurse Educators

  • District of Columbia: $111,130
  • Oregon: $109,110
  • New York: $102,980
  • New Jersey: $101,540
  • Nevada: $99,320

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 the best DNP programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: 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 $281,240, 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.

Q: Is a DNP worth it in Illinois?

Deciding whether or not a DNP is worth it will vary depending on the goals of each individual. Many MSNs find their careers as NPs and APRNs personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

Q: 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.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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