- Table of Contents:
- Best RN to BSN Programs
- Compare Programs
- RN to BSN Overview
- Prerequisites & Requirements
- Salary Expectations
- Pros & Cons
- How to Choose a Nursing School
- Accrediting Bodies
- FAQ
-
by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
*Why you can trust Allnurses: Our editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews of accredited nursing schools. Our rankings are never influenced by advertisers and you can read our methodology below.*
Illinois has more than 20 accredited online RN-BSN programs. With so many options, the decision is not easy. To help guide your process, we'll walk through our top rankings of these programs.
Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Illinois
The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most in their RN to BSN program, including online availability, affordability, duration, flexibility, and more. We'll start with a deep dive into the top five.
1. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) - Chicago, IL
Rating: 99.11 (out of 100)
Type: Online
Overview: At the top of our Illinois RN-BSN list is the University of Illinois at Chicago. This CCNE-accredited RN to BSN program, located in Chicago, offers a swift 12-month completion timeline.
University of Illinois at Chicago's RN to BSN program is an inexpensive option at $9,900, translating to $330 per credit hour. The program comprises 30 nursing credit hours, conveniently delivered online. It boasts four start dates: two for the fall (8/11 and 10/6) and two for the Spring (1/2 and 2/23).
UIC Program Highlights
- Estimated Program Tuition: $9,900 for both in-state and out-of-state (assumes minimum credits required)
- Program Length: 12 Months for full-time students with the maximum transfer credits
- Accreditation: CCNE
Read Reviews: University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Nursing School
2. Olivet Nazarene University - Bourbonnais, IL
Rating: 99.04 (out of 100)
Type: Online
Program Overview: Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais stands as the second choice on our Illinois list. Their RN to BSN pathway, accredited by CCNE, is available entirely online for convenience.
Students have the opportunity to enroll in this program for a budget-friendly $9,995, with the flexibility to opt for either a standard core completion track spanning 15 months or an accelerated fast-track alternative lasting 12 months.
The curriculum encompasses 30 credit hours along with a mandatory 60 practicum hours, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. This program caters to working nurses, offering a manageable timeframe for career advancement.
Olivet Nazarene Program Highlights
- Estimated Program Tuition: $9,995 for both in-state and out-of-state (assumes minimum credits required)
- Program Length: 12 Months for full-time students with the maximum transfer credits
- Accreditation: CCNE
3. Eastern Illinois University - Charleston, IL
Rating: 98.67 (out of 100)
Type: Online
Program Overview: Claiming the third spot on our Illinois list is Eastern Illinois University, located in Charleston. This program offers a streamlined RN to BSN pathway that's fully accredited by CCNE and tailored for accelerated 100% online coursework.
Offering an efficient path to your BSN, the RN to BSN program at EIU can be completed in just 14 months, at an estimated cost of $8,685. The curriculum consists of 32 credit hours and allows for five start dates per year, giving you multiple opportunities to begin your studies.
With its commitment to quality education and flexibility, this program is an excellent choice for aspiring nurses seeking career advancement.
EIU Program Highlights
- Estimated Program Tuition: $8,685
- Program Length: 14 Months for full-time students
- Accreditation: CCNE
4. Illinois College - Jacksonville, IL
Rating: 96.46 (out of 100)
Type: Online
Program Overview: Ranked fourth on our list of Illinois RN to BSN programs is Illinois College, located in Jacksonville. Their CCNE-accredited program offers a flexible and comprehensive online learning experience.
Illinois College RN to BSN program is estimated to cost $13,500, calculated at $375 per credit, with individual courses priced at $1500. Additionally, a $25 fee is applied per term. This estimate is based on 36 credit hours, factoring in a potential transfer of up to 84 credits.
With a focus on adaptable online education and the freedom to progress at your own speed, this program stands as an excellent option for nurses seeking career advancement within a condensed 12-month period.
Illinois College Program Highlights
- Estimated Program Tuition: $13,500
- Program Length: 12 Months for full-time students
- Accreditation: CCNE
5. Benedictine University - Lisle, IL
Rating: 96.02 (out of 100)
Type: Online
Program Overview: Benedictine University, located in Lisle, secures the fifth spot on our Illinois list with its RN to BSN program. This program, accredited by CCNE, offers the convenience of multiple locations or online learning.
With an estimated cost of $14,100, the RN to BSN program at Benedictine University is tailored for working RNs. It's accelerated format allows for completion within 12 months. Alternatively, students have the flexibility of up to 3 years to complete the program, ensuring they can balance their education with their commitments.
Designed to cater to working professionals, classes are offered in the evenings, providing a convenient option for those looking to advance their nursing careers within a manageable 12-month timeframe.
Benedictine University Program Highlights
- Estimated Program Tuition: $14,110
- Program Length: 12 Months for full-time students
- Accreditation: CCNE
Online RN to BSN Programs
Here is our complete list of rankings for the top 21 RN to BSN programs in Illinois, for the 2023-2024 school year.
| Score | School | City | Program |
Estimated Costs1 (Minimum) |
Program Length2 |
Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99.11 |
University of Illinois at Chicago |
Chicago | RN - BSN | $9,900 | 12 months | CCNE |
| 99.04 | Olivet Nazarene University | Bourbonnais | RN to BSN | $9,995 | 12 months | CCNE |
| 98.67 | Eastern Illinois University | Charleston | RN to BSN | $8,685 | 14 months | CCNE |
| 96.46 | Illinois College | Jacksonville | RN to BSN | $13,500 | 12 months | CCNE |
| 96.02 | Benedictine University | Lisle | RN to BSN | $14,110 | 12 months | CCNE |
| 94.22 |
Illinois State University Mennonite College of Nursing |
- | RN to BSN | $16,554 | 12 months | CCNE |
| 91.46 | Methodist College | Peoria | RN to BSN | $20,310 | 12 months | CCNE |
| 91.15 | Governors State University | University Park | RN to BSN | $9,840 | -- | CCNE |
| 90.96 | Northern Illinois University | DeKalb | RN to BSN | $10,102 | -- | CCNE |
| 90.00 | Purdue University Global | - | RN to BSN | -- | 12 months | CCNE |
| 90.00 |
Saint Anthony College of Nursing |
Rockford | RN to BSN | -- | 12 months | CCNE |
| 90.00 |
Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing |
Peoria | RN to BSN | -- | 12 months | CCNE |
| 89.42 |
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville |
Edwardsville |
Accelerated RN to BS (Option) |
$9,477 | 12 months | -- |
| 82.15 | Loyola University Chicago | Chicago | RN to BSN | $19,380 | 12 months | -- |
| 82.00 | Millikin University | Decatur | RN to BSN | -- | 9 months | -- |
| 82.00 | Oak Point University | Chicago |
BSN for RN Completion |
-- | -- | CCNE |
| 80.00 |
McKendree University, Illinois |
Lebanon | RN to BSN | -- | 12 months | -- |
| 79.74 | Western Illinois University | Macomb |
RN-BSN Completion |
$11,761 | 24 months | -- |
| 79.02 |
University of Saint Francis, Illinois |
Joliet |
RN - BSN Completion |
$12,750 | -- | -- |
| 78.89 | Saint John's College, Springfield | Springfield | RN to BSN | $12,927 | -- | -- |
| 78.24 |
Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing |
Quincy | RN to BSN | $13,800 | -- | -- |
*Please contact us if you'd like to update your program's information.
1Costs are based on the minimum required RN to BSN credits and are not inclusive of core credits, nor all fees. Actual costs will vary from student to student and are based on multiple factors, including transfer credits and scholarships. For the most accurate costs breakdown, please reach out to a school representative.
2Program lengths included are typically the shortest possible program length, requiring the maximum amount of transfer credits prior to admission. Outstanding general curriculum requirements will likely increase program length.
What Is an RN to BSN?
An RN to BSN Program is an RN returning to school to obtain a BSN degree. This involves experienced RNs and new graduates with a diploma or an ADN. A BSN degree program provides a more comprehensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It enhances knowledge and understanding of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy for a broader scope of practice.
Related: 15 Best RN to BSN Programs in 2024
RN to BSN Coursework
Typical RN to BSN Coursework includes:
- Professional Nursing Practice
- Family-Centered Health Promotion
- Community and Public Health Nursing
- Statistics for Health Professions
- Introduction to Nursing Research
- Ethical Nursing Practice
- Nursing Leadership and Management
- Trends and Issues in Today's Health Care
- Professional Capstone and Practicum
Can RN to BSNs Be Taken Entirely Online?
RN to BSN programs can be taken entirely online. These programs are designed for working RNs who have already completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, meaning they've gained significant hands-on experience in their initial programs and through work. However, it's important to note that some online RN to BSN programs may have in-person requirements such as exams or capstone projects, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.
Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?
Nurses with a BSN have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Nursing Homes
- Home Care Agencies
- Physician Office
- Educational Services
- Government Agencies
- Schools
- Community Centers
- Hospices
- Dialysis Centers
- Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings
RN to BSN Prerequisites and Requirements
There are several prerequisites to enter an RN to BSN program, including:
- Current, unrestricted RN license
- An ADN or Diploma in Nursing
- Minimum GPA (varying per program)
- Official transcripts
RN to BSN Salary Expectations in Illinois
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs in Illinois in 2022 earned:
- Mean Hourly Wage: $39.53
- Annual Mean Wage: $82,220
Unfortunately, the BLS does not specify whether this is an ADN-prepared RN or BSN-prepared RNs; however, given that a BSN is likely to increase earning potential, this is likely to be representative of slightly lower than the average BSN-RN salary.
RN salary in Illinois is 8% lower than the national estimates for 2022, as the BLS reports RNs across the U.S. earning:
- Mean Hourly Wage: $42.80
- Annual Mean Wage: $89,010
With the highest-paying states being:
- California: $133,340
- Hawaii: $113,220
- Oregon: $106,610
- Massachusetts: $104,150
- Alaska: $103,310
The BLS collected the Illinois RN wage data from over 129,390 nurses.
Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide, or learn more about nursing salaries in Illinois.
Are RN to BSN Programs Worth It?
Evaluating whether RN to BSN programs are worth it in Illinois involves considering various pros and cons.
Pros of RN to BSN Programs in Illinois
- Enhanced Career Opportunities: In Illinois's diverse healthcare landscape, a BSN can open doors to more advanced nursing roles, including management and specialized clinical positions, which might not be accessible to ADN-prepared nurses.
- Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses in Illinois often command higher salaries compared to their ADN counterparts, reflecting the advanced level of education and potential for taking on more complex roles.
- Preparation for Advanced Education: A BSN is a stepping stone for further education, such as Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist programs, which are prevalent and highly regarded in Illinois.
- Meeting Employer Expectations: Many hospitals and healthcare facilities in Illinois, especially those seeking or maintaining Magnet status, prefer or require nurses to have a BSN, aligning with national trends in nursing education.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Studies have shown that BSN-prepared nurses contribute to better patient outcomes. In Illinois, where healthcare quality is a priority, this is a significant advantage.
Cons of RN to BSN Programs in Illinois
- Cost and Financial Investment: The cost of pursuing a BSN in Illinois can be substantial, including tuition, books, and other fees, which might be a financial strain for some nurses.
- Time Commitment: Balancing work, life, and education can be challenging, especially for working nurses who might have to juggle job responsibilities with academic commitments.
- Variable ROI Based on Location: The return on investment for a BSN degree can vary across different regions in Illinois, with urban areas typically offering higher salary benefits than rural areas.
- Online vs. Traditional Learning: While online RN to BSN programs offer flexibility, they may not suit everyone's learning style. Some nurses in Illinois may prefer traditional, in-person learning environments.
- Experience vs. Education: In some nursing roles and facilities within Illinois, extensive nursing experience can be as valued as higher education, which might limit the perceived immediate benefit of a BSN for seasoned RNs.
How to Choose a Nursing School
Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.
Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:
- Cost
- High NCLEX Pass Rate
- Location
- Academic Reputation
- Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Length of Time to Obtain Degree
- Flexibility of Schedule
- Curriculum
- Campus and Surroundings
- Nursing Clinicals Location
- Availability of Online Courses
Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.
Importance of Attending an Accredited RN to BSN Program
Attending an accredited RN to BSN program in Illinois is important for several key reasons:
- Quality Assurance: Accreditation ensures the program meets high educational standards, providing a comprehensive and current nursing education.
- State Licensure: Graduating from an accredited program is often required for licensure in Illinois, ensuring compliance with state nursing regulations.
- Employment Opportunities: Many healthcare employers in Illinois prefer or require a degree from an accredited program, recognizing its credibility and quality.
- Further Education: A BSN from an accredited program is typically required for admission into advanced nursing education programs in Illinois.
- Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for federal and state financial aid, which is crucial for funding your education.
Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
RN to BSN FAQs
Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Illinois?
Illinois is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you'll be required to apply for licensure with the Illinois Board of Nursing.
Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Illinois?
Many schools in Illinois offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.
Q: Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?
While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills.
Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and to achieve the prestige of Magnet status.
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