12 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Illinois | 2024

As the healthcare landscape evolves, the demand for highly skilled nurse practitioners (NPs) continues to grow. Recognizing this need, several esteemed institutions in Illinois have developed top-tier NP programs to prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the serene campuses in Edwardsville, these universities offer a blend of rigorous academics, hands-on clinical experiences, and a commitment to holistic patient care.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Illinois

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. Rush University

Located in Chicago, the College of Nursing at Rush University is distinguished for its commitment to advancing healthcare through top-tier nursing education. The University not only emphasizes clinical expertise but also promotes leadership, advocacy, and research in the nursing field. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, the college prepares its students to meet the evolving challenges of the healthcare sector.

Rush University offers several NP programs through its DNP degree:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Rush University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The tuition fee is $1,344 per credit hour.

2. University of Illinois at Chicago

UIC's College of Nursing is recognized for its dedication to fostering excellence in nursing education and research. The college offers a diverse range of programs tailored to meet the needs of various nursing career paths, from BSN degrees to advanced doctoral studies.

Through its DNP degree, UIC offers several NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

UIC is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $1,024 per credit hour.

3. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago's Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing in Maywood, IL, is recognized for its immersive programs, degrees, and certificates tailored for all levels of nursing students.

Through its DNP degree, Loyola offers several NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with Oncology specialty
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner with Emergency specialty
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Substance Use and Addictions specialty
• Women's Health/Gender Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Loyola is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $1,150 per credit hour.

4. Lewis University

Lewis University's College of Nursing and Health Sciences is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to compassionate care, emphasizing the dignity of each patient. The college is located in Romeoville, IL and adopts a holistic approach to patient care, addressing not only physical symptoms but also the heart, mind, and soul. Students at Lewis benefit from hands-on experiences in state-of-the-art simulation hospital rooms and acute care labs, practicing the latest techniques and honing their clinical judgment in a supportive environment.

Through its MSN degree, LU offers four NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

LU is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $820 per credit hour.

5. University of St. Francis-Illinois

The Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis (USF) in Joliet, IL, is renowned for its commitment to producing highly skilled and compassionate nurses. With a belief that nursing is one of the most flexible and rewarding careers, USF has been at the forefront of nursing education for three generations. The college's approach to nursing education emphasizes not only clinical competence but also advocacy for patients, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to serve in various healthcare settings.

Through its MSN and graduate certificates, the University of St. Francis-Illinois offers two NP concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

USF is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $799 per credit hour.

6. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Located in Edwardsville, Illinois, the SIUE School of Nursing is an esteemed academic institution dedicated to advancing the nursing profession. The school is recognized for its commitment to providing top-tier nursing education, preparing students for diverse roles in the healthcare sector. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, the SIUE School of Nursing offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs, catering to both aspiring nurses and seasoned professionals.

Through its DNP degree, SIUE offers two NP concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

SIUE is CCNE accredited.

7. Illinois State University

The Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University is dedicated to fostering excellence in nursing education and practice. The college is located in Normal, IL, and has a rich legacy of producing competent and compassionate nursing professionals.

ISU offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration through its BSN to DNP track. The hybrid program takes two to three years for MSN completion and four to five years for MSN with DNP completion. Stand-alone MSN is 44 credit hours with 660 clinical hours, and the DNP is 78 credit hours with 1020 clinical hours.

ISU is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $414.6 per credit hour (IL residents) or $861 per credit hour (non-residents).

8. Depaul University

DePaul University's School of Nursing, located in Chicago, is known for its caring and personal approach to nursing education. The school offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs tailored to both practicing nurses and those looking to enter the nursing profession.

Through its DNP degree and graduate certificates, DePaul offers two NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

DePaul University is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $780 per credit hour.

9. Saint Xavier University

Saint Xavier University's School of Nursing, located in Chicago, is renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education. The school has been recognized by the National League for Nursing as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, a testament to its high-quality programs and dedication to student success.

Through its MSN degree, Saint Xavier University offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, designed to prepare graduates to take the national certification exam administered by the ANCC or AANP.

Saint Xavier is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $750 per credit hour.

10. Bradley University

Bradley University's Department of Nursing in Peoria, IL, is committed to nurturing competent and compassionate caregivers. The department offers a range of nursing degrees, from direct-admit undergraduate programs for those with no college background, RNs, and LPNs, to graduate nursing degrees available both on campus and online. Students benefit from Peoria's thriving medical community, with access to two major hospital systems, multiple public health facilities, and several nursing homes, allowing them to explore various medical niches during their clinical experiences.

Through its MSN, DNP, and graduate certificates, Bradley University offers several NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Bradley University is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $1,039 per credit hour.

11. Saint Anthony College of Nursing

Saint Anthony College of Nursing, affiliated with OSF HealthCare, is dedicated to nurturing individuals who aspire to make a difference in the world through the nursing profession. Located in Rockford, IL, the college emphasizes the power of love, kindness, and compassion in healthcare.

Through its MSN degree, Saint Anthony College offers three NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Saint Anthony College of Nursing is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $1,014 per credit hour.

12. Northern Illinois University

The School of Nursing at Northern Illinois University equips students with the essential skills to excel as leaders in patient care across diverse settings. Through its MSN degree, Northern Illinois University offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, preparing graduates to sit for the national examination and for advanced practice.

Northern Illinois University is CCNE accredited. The tuition fee is $745 per credit hour.

Nurse Practitioner Overview

In Illinois, NPs stand at the forefront of advanced practice nursing, offering a wealth of clinical expertise in a variety of care settings, from acute care hospitals to primary care clinics. The journey of an NP in Illinois usually commences with an RN license, which is then followed by advanced academic pursuits, culminating in an MSN or DNP degree.

Once they've completed their NP studies, graduates in Illinois must successfully navigate a demanding national certification exam to achieve their advanced practice license. Their clinical skills are routinely scrutinized, and they partake in regular peer assessments to ensure they meet the pinnacle of patient care standards.

NPs in Illinois are held in high regard across multiple healthcare landscapes, including emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, hospitals, and private medical offices.

Primary NP Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough physical health examinations.
• Initiate and analyze diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays and lab analyses.
• Diagnose and manage a spectrum of health concerns, both acute and chronic.
• Authorize medications and curative treatments.
• Educate patients about disease prevention, potential treatment pathways, and self-care strategies.

NP Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs offer all-encompassing health services for all age groups. Their expertise lies in promoting wellness, preventing illnesses, and managing chronic ailments, often acting as the main health providers for entire families.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in addressing the distinct health requirements of women, spanning from teenage years to post-menopause. Their services encompass reproductive wellness, gynecological treatments, and support during and after pregnancy.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs cater to the health needs of adults, ranging from early adulthood to the elderly phase. Their forte includes managing both sudden and long-term health issues, emphasizing personalized health guidance and patient education.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs excel in providing care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with severe health challenges. Their primary workspace is neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where they work alongside a multidisciplinary medical team.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on ensuring the health and development of children, from infancy to teenage years. They address typical pediatric health issues, conduct routine health assessments, and offer advice on dietary choices and growth benchmarks.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs possess specialized skills to manage mental health challenges. They provide evaluations, therapeutic solutions, and holistic care for various psychiatric disorders.

NP Prerequisites & Requirements in Illinois

In Illinois, those aspiring to enroll in NP programs must satisfy certain prerequisites and requirements to ensure they are fully equipped for advanced nursing roles.

NP Prerequisites in Illinois

The common minimal prerequisites for NP programs in Illinois encompass:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Candidates should possess a BSN from an accredited institution recognized by nursing accreditation bodies and the Illinois Board of Nursing.
• Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure: Applicants must be licensed as a registered professional nurse within the state of Illinois.
• Academic Standards: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is often necessary, with some programs stipulating higher GPA benchmarks.
• Clinical Experience: Prospective students are usually expected to have previous clinical experience as an RN, the extent of which may differ across programs.
• Recommendations: Letters of recommendation are required, typically from those who can attest to the applicant's academic and professional competencies.
• Statement of Purpose: A personal statement outlining the applicant's professional aspirations and reasons for pursuing an NP education is generally mandatory.
• Professional Resume or CV: Programs commonly ask for a resume or CV that chronicles the applicant's educational background and work history.

NP Requirements in Illinois

To graduate from an NP Program in Illinois, students typically must complete the following:

• Academic Coursework: Core coursework covers advanced pharmacology, health assessment, pathophysiology, and specialty-specific classes.
• Clinical Practicum: A designated number of direct patient care hours under supervision must be completed—commonly between 500 and 700 hours for MSN programs and a minimum of 1,000 for DNP programs. 
• Final Project or Thesis: Certain programs may necessitate a capstone project or thesis that showcases the application of learned expertise in a practical setting.
• Certification Examination: A national certification exam in the chosen specialty must be passed to qualify for NP practice.
• State Licensure: Successful candidates must then secure NP licensure in Illinois, which includes any additional criteria laid out by the state.

NP Pathways in Illinois

There are multiple academic tracks for those looking to pursue a career as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), each designed to cater to varying levels of nursing education and professional experience. Below are the three main avenues for becoming an NP:

1. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN program is a favored route for registered nurses seeking to progress in their careers. These programs, lasting about 2-3 years, offer a comprehensive mix of academic and clinical education.
2. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): For a more in-depth immersion in clinical practice, the DNP is considered the pinnacle of nursing education. Typically taking 3-4 years to complete, this path places a strong emphasis on leadership and clinical practice and usually culminates in a capstone project that demonstrates the student's clinical expertise and knowledge.
3. Post-Master's Certificate: Nurses who have already achieved an MSN or DNP and aim to specialize or refocus on an advanced practice area may opt for a post-master's certificate. Typically one year in duration, this program refines the practitioner's expertise in the NP role and prepares them for certification and practice.

These educational routes in Illinois provide a progressive framework for nurses to obtain the necessary qualifications for NP practice, allowing for a seamless integration of academic growth with their professional nursing aspirations. Prerequisites and requirements for entry into each of these pathways will vary. 

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Illinois

To embark on a career as an NP, one must follow a series of steps, which might differ slightly based on individual circumstances. Here are the general steps to become an NP:

1. Achieve RN Licensure:
   • Start by graduating from an approved nursing program, which could be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
   • Successfully clear the NCLEX-RN exam to earn your registered nurse license in Illinois.
   • Many advanced nursing programs give preference to candidates with a BSN.
2. Undertake Advanced Studies:
   • Enroll in an MSN or DNP program that offers a nurse practitioner track. It's crucial to choose a program accredited by reputable organizations, such as the CCNE.
   • Fulfill all academic and clinical requirements set by the program.
3. Achieve National Certification:
   • Upon graduation, select your desired NP specialty (e.g., Family, Pediatric, Adult-Gerontology) and sit for the national certification exam. Esteemed organizations like the ANCC and AANP administer these exams.
4. Secure NP Licensure in Illinoi:
   • Apply for NP licensure through the Illinois Board of Nursing.
   • Submit necessary documentation, including proof of RN licensure, advanced degree credentials, and national certification.
   • Undergo a state-required criminal background check.
5. Uphold Licensure and Certification:
   • Stay informed about current nursing practices and state regulations.
   • Participate in ongoing professional education to satisfy the renewal criteria for both state licensure and national certification.
   • Regularly renew your license and certification, ensuring compliance with the continuing education and clinical practice hours stipulated by the Illinois Board of Nursing and the certification agency.

It's essential to periodically consult the Illinois Board of Nursing or associated entities to stay updated on any changes in requirements or processes.

Cost of NP Programs in Illinois

Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner degree in Illinois, as with any state, involves a series of financial considerations:

• Tuition Fees: The main expenditure varies depending on whether the institution is public or private and the residency status of the student. Tuition is typically charged per credit hour or by semester.
• School Fees: Students may also incur additional costs such as application fees, lab usage fees, and other institutional charges.
• Materials and Supplies: Allocate funds for necessary items such as textbooks, medical instruments, uniforms, and other educational materials.
• Clinical Expenses: Travel and accommodation costs for clinical rotations, if not within a reasonable commuting distance, should be budgeted for.
• Certification and Licensure: Account for the costs associated with certification exams and applying for an Illinois state NP license.
• Living Expenses: Don't overlook day-to-day living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal items.

Financial Aid Strategies

Effective financial planning is critical when navigating the costs associated with NP programs. Early research into financial aid options can make education expenses more manageable. Students should consider applying for federal and state grants, student loans, work-study positions, and scholarships. Many organizations, including healthcare institutions and community groups, offer scholarships that could significantly reduce the financial burden.

Initiating this financial planning process well ahead of time increases the likelihood of obtaining assistance and can relieve the financial stress of pursuing higher education.

Salary Expectations

The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide essential information regarding NP salaries in Illinois. However, when evaluating these salary estimates, several factors come into play.

Factors such as your educational qualifications, accumulated years of professional experience, the healthcare facility you're associated with, your specific employer, the demand for your nursing specialty, and your working hours, including shift patterns, all influence your earnings. For a detailed understanding of what you might earn, it's important to consider individual circumstances and your employer's pay structure.

In Illinois, Nurse Practitioners earn an average salary of $122,310 annually, or $58.81 per hour, placing them within the 25th to 50th percentile range of NP salaries nationwide.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

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

The average salaries for NP specialties are:

• PMHNP: $139,486
• FNP: $130,295
• PNP: $135,161
• NNP: $139,590
• WHNP: $114,532
• AGNP: $242,952

^{NP specialty salary data by ZipRecruiter.}

Industries with the highest levels of employment for NPs include:

• Offices of Physicians: 122,830 employed
• General Medical & Surgical Hospitals: 58,080 employed
• Outpatient Care Centers: 23,760 employed
• Offices of Other Health Practitioners: $10,950 employed
• Home Health Care Services: 7,460 employed

Illinois NP Licensing & Certification

Grasping the intricacies of national certification alongside the specific practice guidelines in Illinois is crucial for Nurse Practitioners mapping out their professional paths and maintaining legal compliance.

National NP Certification 

Attaining national certification is a significant benchmark for NPs, denoting a specialized skill set and body of knowledge. This certification is integral to an NP's professional credentials and is typically required for state licensure. Primary certifying organizations include:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Offers certifications for FNP, AG-ACNP, ENP, and PMHNP.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Provides ten different NP specialty certifications.
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Focuses on Adult Acute Care NP certifications.
• The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Awards certifications to Neonatal NPs (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NPs (WHNP-BC).
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Certifies Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NPs.

National certification assures a standardized level of expertise among NPs in their specializations.

Licensure for NPs in Illinois

In Illinois, NPs operate under a reduced practice authority, which requires them to engage in a collaborative agreement with a physician to perform certain aspects of patient care.. The Illinois Board of Nursing sets forth these collaborative practice regulations, guiding NPs on the legal parameters of their work.

Comparison of NP Practice Authority Nationally

Illinois falls into the category of states with reduced practice authority as defined by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP):

• Full Practice States: NPs in states like Nevada and New Hampshire enjoy full practice authority, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and prescribe independently.
• Reduced Practice States: Illinois and certain other states require NPs to collaborate with physicians for certain medical decisions.
• Restricted Practice States: Some states impose stringent supervision requirements on NPs.

Knowing the varied practice authorities is essential for NPs considering opportunities in different states.

State-Specific NP Licensure

While national certification criteria remain consistent, NP state licensure requirements can vary widely. The APRN Compact, where applicable, seeks to ease these variations across state lines. NPs in Illinois must align their qualifications with both the national certification standards and the specific licensing requirements of the Illinois Board of Nursing.

Illinois NP Program Accreditation

Choosing an accredited NP Program is essential for numerous reasons:

• Quality of Education: Accreditation guarantees that the program adheres to high educational standards established by a recognized accrediting body, ensuring quality in curriculum, faculty, resources, and clinical training.
• Eligibility for Certification Exams: Graduates from accredited programs are typically required to sit for national certification exams, which are crucial for career advancement.
• State Licensure Requirements: Most states mandate that NPs complete an accredited program to qualify for licensure, critical for legal practice.
• Professional Credibility and Employment Opportunities: Accreditation boosts employment prospects, as employers often prefer or require graduates from accredited programs, recognizing their comprehensive preparation.
• Transfer of Credits: Credits from accredited programs are more likely to be accepted by other institutions, facilitating further education.
• Access to Federal Financial Aid: Accreditation qualifies students for federal financial aid, essential for those relying on these funds to support their education.

Accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) play a pivotal role in maintaining these standards.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How does Illinois define the scope of practice for NPs, and are they required to have a collaborative agreement with a physician?

In Illinois, the scope of practice for NPs is defined by the Nurse Practice Act. NPs are recognized as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and are allowed to perform comprehensive health assessments, establish medical diagnoses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and initiate treatment plans.

• Collaborative Agreement: Historically, Illinois required NPs to have a written collaborative agreement with a physician to prescribe medications and practice. However, recent changes in legislation have expanded the NP's autonomy. NPs with over 250 hours of continuing education or training and more than 4,000 hours of clinical experience can apply for full practice authority, allowing them to practice without a written collaborative agreement. Still, it's essential to stay updated with the Illinois Board of Nursing for any legislative changes.

Q: What are the key differences between DNP and MSN programs for NPs in Illinois?

Both the DNP and the MSN prepare RNs for advanced clinical roles, but they differ in depth, duration, and focus.

• Duration and Depth: DNP programs are typically longer than MSN programs and delve deeper into clinical practice, leadership, and healthcare policy. While both programs prepare nurses for clinical roles, the DNP has an added emphasis on translating research into clinical practice and system-wide healthcare improvements.
• Curriculum: MSN programs focus on advanced clinical training in a chosen specialty, while DNP programs include this and also cover topics like healthcare policy, leadership, and evidence-based practice at a more in-depth level.
• Career Opportunities: Both degrees prepare graduates for advanced clinical roles, but DNP-prepared NPs might have more opportunities in leadership, academia, and policy-making due to the comprehensive nature of their education.