University of St Francis

The Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis (USF) in Joliet, Illinois, offers a high-quality nursing education designed to prepare students to be competent clinicians and advocates for their patients. The programs emphasize up-to-date skills, critical thinking, cultural awareness, and experiential learning through classes, labs, simulations, and clinical experiences.

Discover University of St Francis

Joliet, Illinois

School Ranking: B+

University of St Francis is a 4 year or higher State Institution. It is a public and non-profit institution. The institution 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. University of St Francis admits 58% of applicants and graduates 67% of its students.

Contact Info

Quick Overview

  • $51,600 Undergraduate Tuition
  • $33,878 Graduate Tuition
  • Doctoral/Professional University
  • 1,390 Undergraduate Enrolled
    *Certificate and degree-seeking students
  • 1,883 Graduate Students Enrolled
  • 58% Acceptance Rate
  • 67% Graduation Rate

Student Demographics

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

College Data provided by the U.S. Department of Education and complemented with additional insights from our analysts. Learn more about our Rankings Methodology.

Nursing Programs

  • Family Nurse Practitioner FNP

  • Online MSN to Post Grad Certificate Program
  • $23,171 In-State Tuition
  • 29 Credits
  • 12 Months
  • 3.00 GPA Required
  • 4.5 Program Score
  • Nurse Educator

  • On-Campus BSN to MSN Program
  • $39,151 In-State Tuition
  • 49 Credits
  • 24 Months
  • 3.00 GPA Required
  • 4.2 Program Score
  • Traditional BSN

  • On-Campus BSN Program
  • $51,600 In-State Tuition
  • 120 Credits
  • 48 Months
  • 4.4 Program Score

*Program Score compares similar specialty programs across our database. Learn more about our Rankings Methodology

The Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis (USF) in Joliet, Illinois, offers a high-quality nursing education designed to prepare students to be competent clinicians and advocates for their patients. The program emphasizes up-to-date skills, critical thinking, cultural awareness, and experiential learning through classes, labs, simulations, and clinical experiences.

Programs Offered

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, with comprehensive coursework and hands-on clinical experiences.

Graduate Programs

  • Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Post-Graduate APRN Certificates

Accreditation and Approvals

The nursing programs at USF are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Higher Learning Commission. These accreditations ensure that the programs meet the highest standards of quality and rigor in nursing education.

Highlights

  • Simulation Learning Center: USF's simulation labs provide students with the opportunity to enhance their skills and practice nursing techniques using computerized mannequins of different genders and ages. These simulations prepare students for real-world healthcare scenarios, boosting their confidence and skills.
  • High Exam Pass Rates: USF's BSN program boasts NCLEX pass rates that are typically higher than the national average, ranging from 90% to 100%. Graduates who pass the NCLEX examination are licensed as registered nurses and are ready to enter various generalist practice areas in nursing.
  • Comprehensive Clinical Experience: The Leach College of Nursing emphasizes hands-on education, offering clinical experiences in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, home health, public health, managed care, primary care clinics, hospice care, long-term care (nursing homes), and mental health services.
  • Real-World Experience: Students gain extensive real-world experience through clinical placements in leading healthcare agencies. These experiences are crucial for developing the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in nursing practice.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the Leach College of Nursing are well-prepared for various roles in the healthcare field, including:

  • Registered Nurses (RNs)
  • Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
  • Nurse Educators
  • Nurse Leaders

The strong educational foundation and extensive clinical experience provided by USF ensure that graduates are highly competitive in the job market.

Supportive Learning Environment

USF offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes, providing personal attention and individual guidance from faculty. Resources such as academic advising, financial aid, and career services help students succeed both academically and professionally.

Community Engagement

USF emphasizes community engagement and professional involvement, encouraging students to participate in initiatives that improve health outcomes and increase access to care in underserved areas.

Edited by Joe V

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