5 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Chicago, Illinois | 2024

Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career or generally curious about the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best NP programs in Chicago, Illinois as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.

What Is an NP Program?

NP programs in Chicago are specialized graduate-level educational pathways designed for registered nurses (RNs) looking to advance their clinical skills and knowledge to provide higher levels of patient care. These programs, typically offered as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), are tailored to meet the specific healthcare needs and regulatory requirements of Chicago and the surrounding region, preparing nurses for advanced practice roles in various specialties within the city.

NP Specializations

There are many NP specializations available in Chicago, with some of the most common being:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Provides comprehensive care from pediatrics to geriatrics, focusing on disease prevention and chronic condition management in various healthcare settings.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Specializes in mental health care, offering services like therapy and medication management in psychiatric settings.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): Focuses on adult and elderly care, addressing both acute and chronic illnesses in diverse healthcare environments.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): Delivers specialized care in women's health, covering gynecological and reproductive health in various clinical settings.

Other specializations include areas like oncology, neonatal, emergency, and acute care.

NP Coursework

Coursework in NP programs in Chicago, Illinois, typically includes:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: In-depth understanding of disease processes and their impact on the human body, tailored to the healthcare landscape of Chicago and the surrounding area.
• Pharmacology: Comprehensive knowledge of pharmacological agents and their therapeutic uses, including medications commonly prescribed in Chicago.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills in comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessment of patients across the lifespan, with a focus on Chicago's diverse patient populations.
• Primary Care Management: Emphasis on managing common health problems encountered in primary care settings, aligning with the healthcare demands of Chicago.
• Health Policy and Ethics: Study of healthcare policies, ethical principles, and their specific application in the healthcare system of Chicago and the surrounding region.
• Research Methods: Training in research methodologies relevant to evidence-based practice, which is crucial for healthcare decisions in Chicago.
• Specialty-Specific Courses: Depending on the chosen specialization, coursework may focus on specific population health needs, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or mental health, addressing the unique healthcare challenges within Chicago and the surrounding area.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training in Chicago NP programs typically involves:

• Supervised Clinical Hours: Completion of a significant number of direct patient care hours under the supervision of experienced NPs or physicians in healthcare facilities within Chicago and the surrounding region.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Rotations in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and specialty practices, to ensure exposure to different patient populations and healthcare contexts in Chicago.
• Specialty Practice: Tailored clinical experiences aligned with the student's area of specialization, allowing them to gain expertise in their chosen field within Chicago's healthcare ecosystem.
• Capstone Projects: Some NP programs may include a capstone project that integrates clinical learning with research or quality improvement initiatives relevant to the healthcare challenges of Chicago and the surrounding region.

Best NP Programs in Chicago - Online & Campus

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. University of Illinois at Chicago

The University of Illinois at Chicago offers a comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a variety of Nurse Practitioner concentrations, including Adult-Gerontology NP (AGNP), Family NP (FNP), Neonatal NP (NNP), Women's Health NP (WHNP), Pediatric NP (PNP), and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP). This program provides flexibility in its delivery, accommodating full-time or part-time enrollment and can be completed within 2 to 6 years through a hybrid format that includes online, on-site, and blended courses. 

NP Program Highlights:

• Tuition rates: $1,024 per credit hour
• Accreditation: The program is accredited through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
• Flexible Learning Formats: The program's hybrid format offers all didactic courses online, with high-value clinical placements arranged near the student's campus.
• Financial Support: Over $289,000 in scholarships are available to support students financially.
• Varied Pathways: The program includes pathways like BSN to DNP and post-MS DNP for diverse educational backgrounds.
• Application Deadline: The application deadline is January 15, with exceptions for active military applicants.

The University of Illinois at Chicago's DNP program is designed not only to enhance clinical skills but also to develop leadership, organizational, and financial skills, contributing to the transformation of healthcare.

2. Rush University

Rush University provides a prestigious Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), delivered through a flexible hybrid format. The program can be completed in 2.5 years for full-time students and 3.5 years for part-time students. BSN to DNP students are required to complete 71 credit hours, while MSN to DNP students need 62 credit hours, allowing for a shorter completion time. The faculty, who are active practitioners, prioritize clinical excellence and leadership in healthcare.

NP Program Highlights:

• Tuition Costs: $1,344 per credit hour.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
• Flexible Program Length and Format: Full-time students complete the program in 2.5 years, while part-time students take 3.5 years. Most classes are offered online, with individualized plans of study that accommodate fully online learning or a hybrid of online and in-person courses.
• Clinical Practice Sites: Available in the Chicago area, catering to the practical needs of students.
• Certification: Upon completion, graduates are eligible for certification as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
• Campus Visits: Minimal campus visits are required, with specific on-campus activities for program orientation, health assessment, orientation to DNP projects and clinical rotations, FNP management clinicals, and DNP project presentations.

The Rush University FNP DNP program is designed to foster professional growth in clinical practice, equipping students with the skills needed for excellence in the rapidly evolving field of nursing.

3. DePaul University

DePaul University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with specialized tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (AGNP). These programs are designed to advance nursing careers by equipping students with leadership, business, and research skills necessary for working effectively in advanced healthcare settings. Both the FNP and AGNP programs consist of a total of 62 credit hours.

NP Program Highlights:

• Tuition: $758 per credit hour, or $43,455 annually at a full-time plan of study
• CCNE Accreditation: The program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high educational standards.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Both tracks offer a robust curriculum covering various aspects of advanced nursing practice.
• Flexible Learning Options: Classes are available online and at DePaul's Lincoln Park Campus, accommodating diverse learning preferences.
• Strong Employment Outcomes: An impressive 93% of Nursing graduates find employment or engage in further education within six months of graduation.
• Industry-Leading Faculty: Students benefit from learning under professors who have made significant contributions to nursing practice and research.
• Robust Alumni Network: DePaul's strong alumni network provides extensive networking opportunities in the Chicago area and beyond.

The DNP program at DePaul University prepares nursing professionals for advanced practice roles, emphasizing clinical skills, treatment plan implementation, and tools to improve patient outcomes, safety, and quality of care.

4. Saint Xavier University

Saint Xavier University provides a comprehensive online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program with occasional on-campus sessions. This program focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and health problem management across all ages, meeting the increasing demand for nationally recognized expert FNPs.

The program can be completed in three years of full-time study, with a full-time course load defined as six credit-hours or more per semester. It primarily follows an online format with scheduled synchronous class sessions and occasional on-campus meetings.

NP Program Highlights:

• Tuition: $750 per credit hour.
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), assuring the quality and value of the education.
• Eligibility for FNP Certification: Graduates can take the FNP certification exam administered by ANCC or AANP.
• Collaborative Clinical Placement: SXU works with students to secure practicum placements.
• High Certification Exam Pass Rate: A 100% pass rate on the national FNP certification exam for graduates over the past five years.
• Personalized Attention: Small class sizes, mostly taught by full-time faculty, and each student is assigned a graduate advisor.
• Evidence-Based Curriculum: Faculty members integrate evidence-based practice throughout the curriculum and maintain active clinical practice.
• Financial Support: Scholarships available, with generous tuition discounts for nurses employed by SXU clinical partner agencies.
• Post-Master's Certificate: An option for those who already have a master's in nursing, with an individualized program of study.

Saint Xavier University's FNP program is designed to educate nursing professionals to search for truth, think critically, communicate effectively, and serve wisely in support of human dignity and the common good.

5. North Park University

North Park University's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), prepares graduates for diverse roles in settings like schools, community centers, hospitals, and organizations. The program features evening classes on-campus in Chicago, designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals.

The MSN program focuses on equipping students to care for individuals of all ages, emphasizing skills in patient and family care, healthcare consultation, and personalized care plans. Graduates are prepared for careers in various healthcare environments, often serving as primary caregivers. The program requires completion of 52 credit hours and 765 clinical practicum hours.

NP Program Highlights:

• Tuition: $870 per credit hour.
•  Accreditation:  Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring high standards of nursing education.
• State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Providing hands-on practical training essential for modern nursing practice.
• Convenient Schedule: Evening classes are structured to accommodate the needs of working professionals, allowing for a balance between career and education.

North Park University's FNP specialization within the MSN program not only imparts valuable skills and extensive clinical experience but also paves the way for future career advancement in the ever-evolving field of nursing.

Costs of NP Programs in Chicago

The expenses linked to NP programs in Chicago, Illinois, can vary, influenced by several factors:

• Tuition Fees: Tuition costs serve as the primary expense and can fluctuate based on whether the institution is public or private, the program's duration, and the chosen specialization.
• Books and Supplies: Students need to budget for textbooks and educational materials required for coursework.
• Lab Fees: Additional charges may apply for laboratory work or specialized equipment usage during the program.
• Technology Fees: In cases of online programs or courses utilizing digital platforms, technology fees may be incurred.
• Clinical Rotation Costs: Expenses related to clinical rotations include travel, accommodation (if necessary), and uniforms for hands-on training.

Prospective NP students in Chicago are encouraged to explore financial aid, grants, and loan options to effectively manage the overall costs associated with their NP education.

NP Salary Expectations in Chicago

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average median salary for an NP in Chicago is $122,310 or $58.81 per hour, which is 3.45% lower than the national median of $126,680.

The highest-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

It's important to note that NP salary expectations can vary based on many factors including level of education (MSN vs DNP), years of experience, employer, and more. Prospective students need to consider the context when developing their expectations.

NP Salary by State

Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Are NP Programs Worth It in Chicago?

Deciding whether an NP Program is worth it in Chicago requires considering various pros and cons.

Pros of NP Programs in Chicago

1. High Demand: Chicago, as a major metropolitan area, has a growing demand for healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners. This demand can lead to job security and numerous employment opportunities for NPs in various healthcare settings within the city.
2. Competitive Salaries: NP programs in Chicago can lead to well-paying careers. Nurse practitioners often earn higher salaries compared to registered nurses due to their advanced skills and responsibilities, which can be especially attractive in Chicago's job market.
3. Diverse Specializations: NP programs in Chicago offer a range of specializations, such as family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatric-mental health, allowing for career customization based on personal interests and addressing specific healthcare needs within the city.
4. Strong Educational Institutions: Chicago is home to reputable universities and medical schools that provide high-quality education and training for NPs, ensuring graduates receive a solid foundation for their careers.
5. Practice Autonomy: Illinois, including Chicago, allows nurse practitioners a good degree of practice autonomy, meaning NPs can perform a wide range of services, sometimes independently, enhancing their professional experience and scope of practice.

Cons of NP Programs in Chicago

1. Cost of Education: NP programs can be expensive, especially in private institutions. The cost of education in Chicago may be higher than in other regions, necessitating student loans or financial planning.
2. Intensive Coursework and Training: NP programs are rigorous and demanding, requiring a significant time commitment and effort. Balancing coursework with work or family responsibilities in a bustling city like Chicago can be challenging.
3. State Regulations: While Illinois offers practice autonomy, the state's specific regulatory environment may still impose certain restrictions or requirements on NPs, which can vary over time.
4. Competitive Admission: Due to the high demand for these programs, admission can be competitive. Applicants often need excellent academic records and, in some cases, relevant work experience to secure a spot in an NP Program in Chicago.
5. Pressure and Responsibility: As advanced practice nurses, NPs face high levels of responsibility in patient care, which can be stressful and demanding, especially in specialized fields like acute care or psychiatry.

Ultimately, whether an NP Program is worth it in Chicago depends on your individual circumstances, career goals, and willingness to invest in education and training.

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP Program in Chicago

Attending an accredited NP Program in Chicago, Illinois, is crucial because:

• Quality Assurance: Accreditation ensures that the program meets high educational standards, providing a comprehensive and current curriculum essential for effective practice.
• Eligibility for Certification: Graduation from an accredited program is typically required to sit for national certification exams, which are necessary for licensure as an NP.
• State Licensure: Illinois, including Chicago, often mandates graduation from an accredited program for NP licensure, which is essential for legal practice in the state.
• Professional Credibility: Employers in Chicago prefer candidates from accredited programs, as it signifies a high level of training and competence, enhancing job prospects.
• Future Education Opportunities: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized for advanced studies or specialization, facilitating continuous professional development in the healthcare field.

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

Illinois NP Scope of Practice

In Illinois, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) like you practice under reduced practice regulations. This means you have significant professional capabilities but must collaborate with other healthcare providers in at least one aspect of your practice. While you're trained to evaluate patients, diagnose diseases, interpret diagnostic tests, and manage treatments, including prescribing medications, Illinois law requires a collaborative agreement with a physician for at least one of these activities.

Most states operate under full practice regulations, allowing NPs to practice at the fullest extent of their training. Therefore, when choosing an NP Program, it's crucial to ensure that it prepares you to practice in your desired state. Opting for an education that enables practice in all states can provide flexibility in case of relocation.

Although Illinois currently maintains reduced practice regulations, there are indications that this may be changing. The state board of nursing is now accepting applications for Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and Full Practice Authority APRN Controlled Substance licenses.

It is essential for you to consider these regulations when planning your education and career path, especially if you anticipate practicing in a different state than where you plan to go to school. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the core courses typically included in NP programs in the Chicago area?

NP programs in the Chicago area usually include core courses that provide a strong foundation in advanced nursing practice. These courses cover topics such as advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, primary care management, and health policy and ethics.

Q: Can I pursue NP education in Chicago on a part-time basis?

Many NP programs in Chicago offer part-time enrollment options to accommodate students who have work or other commitments. Part-time programs allow students to balance their education with their existing responsibilities while working toward their advanced nursing degree.

Q: What is the importance of clinical practice (practicum) in NP programs in Chicago?

Clinical practice, often referred to as a practicum, is a crucial component of NP programs in Chicago. It provides students with hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in a supervised clinical environment. Clinical practice is essential for building competence and confidence in advanced nursing practice.

Q: What is the significance of accreditation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in NP programs in Chicago?

Accreditation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is highly significant in NP programs in Chicago. ANCC accreditation signifies that a program meets rigorous educational standards, ensuring the quality of the curriculum and clinical training. Graduating from an ANCC-accredited program is often a requirement for certification and licensure as an advanced practice nurse in Illinois.

Q: How do credit hours work in NP programs in Chicago, and what is the typical credit hour requirement for these programs?

Credit hours in NP programs refer to the amount of academic credit assigned to each course or component of the program. The credit hour requirement can vary depending on the chosen specialization and program level (MSN or DNP). Students should check with their specific program for credit hour details and requirements.