Olivia Chen, NP
June 26, 2025
Nurse practitioner programs in Illinois prepare registered nurses for advanced, autonomous practice in diverse settings, from major academic medical centers in Chicago to rural clinics downstate. CCNE‑accredited MSN and DNP tracks are offered by institutions such as the University of Illinois Chicago, Loyola University Chicago, Northwestern University, Rush University, and Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Graduates are eligible for national certification and Illinois APRN licensure with prescriptive authority, enabling them to assess, diagnose, and manage patient care independently.
Peoria, IL - Private 4-year - bradley.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program offers three innovative pathways for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. Designed for ADN, BSN, and MSN holders, this comprehensive online program equips healthcare professionals with critical skills to address primary care physician shortages. With flexible admission requirements including a 3.0 GPA and active nursing license, students can enhance their clinical expertise through a robust curriculum covering advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and specialized patient population care.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program provides advanced nursing professionals with comprehensive training to deliver high-quality healthcare across adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. Students can choose from multiple entry points, including RN-MSN and BSN-MSN tracks, with flexible online learning options. The rigorous curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning, preparing graduates for certification examinations. Clinical practicums totaling 600 hours offer hands-on experience in primary care settings, ensuring students develop critical skills for providing patient-centered care.
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses for critical care settings. This comprehensive online program equips students with specialized skills to manage complex health conditions in adult and geriatric populations. Students complete 600 clinical hours with qualified preceptors, gaining hands-on experience in acute care environments. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, an active nursing license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduates are eligible to take the ANCC certification examination, positioning themselves for high-demand roles in hospitals and specialized medical centers.
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares RNs for advanced practice roles in primary care. Tailored for ADN, BSN, and MSN holders, it offers flexible pathways to meet diverse educational backgrounds. The curriculum covers essential topics like Advanced Pathophysiology and Pharmacology, alongside clinical practicums. Admission requires a valid RN license, a 3.0 GPA, and a degree from an accredited program. This program is ideal for nurses seeking to enhance their clinical skills and career prospects in a high-demand field.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online RN to MSN Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. This program offers a flexible, 100% online format with no campus residency, allowing students to balance work and studies. It prepares graduates for the ANCC certification exam, focusing on acute care for adult and elderly patients. With a curriculum spanning 56 credit hours over approximately 3 years, it includes bridge courses for ADN or diploma holders. Clinicals can be completed locally, offering practical experience. This program is ideal for those seeking to specialize in acute care settings, enhancing their skills in critical care and complex patient management.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program prepares RNs for advanced roles in family medicine. This accredited program offers flexible online learning with no campus residency, allowing students to complete clinicals locally. Tailored for RNs with an ADN or BSN, it requires 50-59 credit hours and prepares graduates for ANCC or AANP certification. Ideal for those seeking autonomy in primary care, the program emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and leadership in healthcare settings.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program designed for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. With three distinct entry pathways, nurses can upgrade their skills and meet the growing demand for primary care professionals. The program provides flexible, web-based education covering critical healthcare concepts, with options for ADN, BSN, and MSN-prepared nurses. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum, including advanced clinical practicums, and gain the knowledge needed to pursue FNP certification and expand their career opportunities in healthcare.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate offers advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in complex acute care. This online program spans 32 credit hours and can be completed in approximately 1.7 years, preparing nurses to provide sophisticated medical care for diverse patient populations from adolescents to elderly. Designed for experienced MSN degree holders, the certificate enhances clinical skills in health assessment, disease prevention, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Graduates will be well-positioned to sit for ANCC or AACN certification exams, expanding their career opportunities in critical care settings.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, designed for MSN degree holders aiming to specialize further. This program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, allows students to complete coursework 100% online, graduating in as few as 1.7 years. It focuses on enhancing skills in health assessment, disease prevention, and managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Graduates are prepared for the ANCC or AANPCB certification exams, opening doors to advanced practice roles with greater responsibility and autonomy in primary care settings.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner track offers a comprehensive online pathway for BSN-prepared nurses to advance their careers. This 100% online program transforms experienced nurses into advanced healthcare leaders, focusing on evidence-based practice and comprehensive patient care. Designed for nurses with a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program spans approximately 3.7 years and includes 1,000 clinical hours. Graduates gain advanced skills in primary care, healthcare technology, and policy development, preparing them for certification exams and leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program offers a comprehensive online pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. This robust program prepares healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive primary care for adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations. Students complete 600 clinical hours with qualified preceptors, gaining extensive hands-on experience. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, and professional practice, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for certification exams through ANCC or AANP. Designed for both RN-MSN and BSN entry paths, the program ranges from 47-56 semester hours, providing flexible educational opportunities for working healthcare professionals.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide specialized care for critically ill adult and geriatric patients. Students can choose from multiple entry points, including RN-MSN and BSN-MSN tracks, with comprehensive curriculum focusing on complex patient management. The program offers online flexibility, requiring 600 clinical hours in acute care settings and preparing graduates for specialized certification exams. Admission requires an unencumbered nursing license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and an accredited nursing degree.
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's DNP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program prepares nurses for advanced practice with adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations. This online program requires 70 semester hours, including 1,000 clinical hours, and focuses on acute and chronic condition management. Graduates are eligible for AGPCNP certification. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an unencumbered nursing license. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning, culminating in a DNP project.
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Bradley University's online BSN to DNP-FNP program is designed for nurses seeking to advance their careers with a focus on family nurse practice. This program blends rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experiences, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare. Students will gain skills in advanced physical assessment, pharmacology, and therapeutic interventions. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and technology integration. Admission requires a BSN, current RN license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program is entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals. Graduates are eligible to take the AANP or ANCC certification exams, opening doors to advanced practice opportunities.
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - uic.edu
Concentration: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago's Doctor of Nursing Practice offers a specialized Neonatal Nurse Practitioner track for advanced practice nurses seeking expertise in newborn and infant healthcare. Designed for experienced RNs, this rigorous program prepares professionals to provide comprehensive, high-quality care in neonatal settings, addressing complex medical needs with advanced clinical skills and evidence-based interventions.
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago offers a Post-DNP Certificate for Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (PNP-PC), designed for DNP-prepared nurses aiming to expand their practice scope. This hybrid program combines online and on-site courses, preparing graduates for national certification. With a 100% pass rate on certification exams, students benefit from arranged clinicals with qualified preceptors. Admission is for the fall, with applications accepted from August through March. The program requires 23 semester hours and 675 clinical hours, ensuring comprehensive training. Additional courses may be needed for those without current APRN certification. Tuition follows UIC's professional program rates, with financial aid unavailable for certificate programs.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago's College of Nursing offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) post-Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) certificate program. This program is designed for DNP-prepared nurses aiming to expand their scope of practice into family nurse practitioner roles. It combines online, on-site, and blended courses, providing flexibility for working professionals. The program prepares graduates for national certification as FNPs, with a 100% pass rate on certification exams. Clinical practicum sites and preceptors are arranged by faculty, ensuring hands-on experience in primary care settings. Admission is for the fall semester, with applications accepted from August through March. Tuition follows UIC's professional program rates, and financial aid is not available for certificate programs.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago offers a Post-DNP PMHNP Certificate for DNP-prepared nurses aiming to specialize in psychiatric-mental health. This hybrid program combines online and on-site learning, preparing students for national certification. With a 100% pass rate on certification exams, the program ensures clinical excellence through faculty-arranged practicum sites. Tailored for fall admission, it requires 750 clinical hours, emphasizing hands-on experience in the new focus area. Tuition follows UIC's professional program rates, with financial aid unavailable for certificate seekers. Ideal for nurses seeking to expand their practice into mental health, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum and practical training.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago's AG-ACNP post-DNP certificate provides DNP-prepared nurses a strategic pathway to expand their clinical expertise in adult-gerontology acute care. Designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized certification, this hybrid program combines online and on-site learning, offering comprehensive training in advanced practice. Ranked #8 nationally, the program boasts a remarkable 100% certification exam pass rate and ensures students receive high-quality clinical experiences through carefully arranged practicum sites.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago offers a specialized post-DNP certificate for experienced nurses seeking to expand their practice as adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners. This hybrid program enables DNP-prepared nurses to broaden their clinical expertise through comprehensive coursework and extensive clinical training. Designed for advanced practice nurses, the program provides a pathway to national certification with a rigorous curriculum that includes applied pharmacotherapeutics, health management, and 675 clinical hours across three practicum courses.
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care program at UIC prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver specialized care for children with complex and critical health conditions. Graduates gain comprehensive skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing acute pediatric health challenges across multiple practice settings. The program enables students to become board-certified practitioners eligible for practice in all 50 states, focusing on evidence-based, patient-centered care for infants, children, and young adults with acute illnesses.
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare for children from infancy through young adulthood. Students learn to provide patient-centered care focusing on wellness, prevention, and illness management. The program equips graduates to work in diverse pediatric settings including clinics, schools, and emergency departments, performing critical functions like well-child exams, developmental screenings, diagnosing common illnesses, and providing immunizations.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UIC's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program equips nurses to become primary care providers across patient lifespans. Designed for working professionals, this part-time blended program prepares graduates for independent practice in underserved communities. Students benefit from faculty-arranged clinical sites and preceptors, ensuring comprehensive hands-on training. The program boasts a 100% certification exam pass rate and aligns with national nursing competency standards, making it an ideal pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice roles.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at UIC offers a comprehensive doctoral-level education for advanced nursing professionals. Graduates develop expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders across patient lifespans. The curriculum blends rigorous academic preparation with advanced clinical skills in diagnostic reasoning, psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy. Designed for experienced clinical professionals, the program prepares practitioners to work in diverse settings including hospitals, community health centers, private practices, and educational institutions.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Illinois Chicago's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare for women across their lifespan. Students learn to deliver well-woman care, reproductive services, and prenatal care while focusing on health promotion and disease prevention. Graduates become primary care providers equipped to support women's holistic health through clinical expertise and patient education. The program offers clinical practicum experiences with specialty preceptors, ensuring students gain practical skills in gynecology, urogynecology, and family planning.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-PCNP) program at UIC prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive patient-centered care across the adult lifespan. This part-time, hybrid program combines online, blended, and on-campus courses, requiring 77 credit hours and 1,000 clinical practicum hours. Students benefit from faculty-arranged clinical sites in diverse settings, ensuring hands-on experience. With a 100% board certification exam pass rate, graduates are equipped to deliver wellness and illness care from young adults to older populations, making significant impacts in primary healthcare.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at UIC prepares advanced practice nurses to manage complex health challenges across the adult lifespan. This comprehensive doctoral-level program blends online and on-campus learning, offering students 77 credit hours and 1,000 clinical practicum hours. Graduates develop specialized skills in acute and critical care settings, treating patients from late adolescence through older adulthood. With a 100% board certification pass rate, the program equips healthcare professionals to provide sophisticated, evidence-based care in diverse medical environments like ICUs and emergency departments.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Chicago offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP). This hybrid program combines online and on-campus coursework, requiring 77 credit hours and 1,000 clinical practicum hours. It prepares nurses to manage acute, critical, and complex chronic illnesses in adults from late adolescence to older age. The program boasts a 100% pass rate for board certification in 2022. Clinical practicums are arranged in diverse settings, including ICUs and ERs. Ideal for those seeking advanced roles in acute care nursing.
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare for adolescents and adults across diverse settings. Students develop sophisticated skills in patient education, health promotion, diagnostics, and disease prevention. With a competitive 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a robust curriculum, graduates are equipped to make significant impacts in primary care. The program offers flexible learning options, competitive tuition rates, and potential employer tuition assistance. Graduates can expect enhanced career opportunities with an average salary around $120,000 annually.
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Lewis University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for primary healthcare roles across all ages. This program emphasizes advanced skills in diagnostics, health promotion, and disease prevention. With flexible online formats, employer tuition discounts, and a focus on ethical healthcare practices, it's designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. Admission requires a BSN, RN licensure, and a 3.0 GPA.
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares students to specialize in mental health care across the lifespan. This program offers advanced training in diagnosing, treating, and managing psychiatric conditions, including therapy and pharmacotherapy. Courses are available online or at the Oak Brook campus, providing flexibility for working professionals. Admission requires a BSN, RN licensure, and a 3.0 GPA. Financial aid options include employer discounts and scholarships. Graduates are equipped to improve mental health outcomes in diverse settings.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Post-Master's Nursing Certificates provide advanced healthcare professionals opportunities to specialize and enhance their nursing credentials. These non-degree programs cover critical specialties like Adult Gerontology, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health, Nursing Education, and Healthcare Systems Leadership. Designed for experienced nurses seeking career advancement, the programs offer flexible learning pathways with competitive tuition and potential financial aid. Applicants must hold a master's degree from an accredited nursing program, maintain an RN license, and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University offers comprehensive post-master's nursing certificates designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized credentials. With multiple tracks including Adult Gerontology, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health, healthcare professionals can enhance their expertise and career opportunities. The program provides rigorous, accredited training across various specialties, preparing nurses to deliver high-quality patient care in diverse clinical settings. Competitive tuition, potential employer assistance, and alumni scholarships make these non-degree programs financially accessible.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers advanced nursing professionals a specialized pathway to enhance critical care skills. This post-master's program prepares nurses to manage complex health conditions in acute settings like intensive care units, providing comprehensive patient care. Graduates develop expertise in treating critically ill patients across age spectrums, emphasizing advanced diagnostic and treatment strategies. The program is designed for registered nurses seeking to expand their clinical capabilities and career opportunities in high-intensity healthcare environments.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive medical care for adolescents and adults. This program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality healthcare across diverse settings including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Students gain advanced clinical skills to provide routine medical care, conduct assessments, and develop patient-centered treatment strategies. Graduates emerge as versatile healthcare practitioners equipped to meet growing healthcare demands in adult and gerontological care.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offers an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track designed for healthcare professionals seeking advanced practice expertise. This comprehensive program prepares nurses to provide high-quality primary healthcare for adolescents and adults across diverse settings. Students develop advanced skills in patient education, health promotion, diagnostics, and disease prevention. With a flexible online coursework format and immersion experiences, the program allows practicing nurses to enhance their clinical knowledge while maintaining professional commitments. Competitive tuition and various scholarship opportunities make this advanced degree accessible for career-driven nursing professionals.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's BSN to DNP Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program equips nurses with advanced skills to provide comprehensive healthcare for adult and geriatric patients in critical settings. This comprehensive 76-credit doctoral program prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, evidence-based acute care through rigorous academic training. Students develop expertise in complex patient management, healthcare policy, research methodologies, and advanced clinical practice. The program combines theoretical coursework with extensive clinical residencies, enabling graduates to become specialized practitioners who can address critical healthcare challenges in acute and intensive care environments.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute care settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with practical experiences, requiring 76 credit hours. It covers applied biostatistics, healthcare policy, and acute care management. Admission requires a BSN, with courses like pharmacotherapeutics and health assessment enhancing clinical skills. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for leadership in healthcare. Financial and strategic management courses equip students for decision-making roles. The DNP residency offers hands-on experience, culminating in a scholarly project. This program is ideal for nurses aiming to specialize in adult gerontology acute care.
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - luc.edu
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Nursing Certificate Programs offer advanced professional development for nurses seeking to expand their expertise. Designed for bachelor's and master's prepared nurses, these programs provide specialized clinical training and advanced practice opportunities. Options include Post-Graduate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) certificates in various specialties like Family Nurse Practitioner, Women's Health, and Adult-Gerontology. Learners work closely with program directors to create personalized study plans, focusing on integrating scientific findings, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based healthcare strategies.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program prepares advanced practice nurses to address critical mental health needs across patient lifespans. Designed for working professionals, the blended format allows flexible part-time and full-time study over four to five years. Students gain comprehensive skills in mental health evaluation, pharmacological treatment, and therapeutic interventions, with a strong emphasis on social justice and serving underserved populations. The 72-credit DNP track leads to ANCC certification and focuses on holistic, ethical care delivery.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Women's Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care for women across their lifespan. This hybrid program offers flexible full and part-time options for working healthcare professionals, requiring 70 credit hours and a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice experience. Students gain extensive knowledge in reproductive health, advanced sexual and gynecological care, and develop critical skills in physical assessment, treatment planning, and patient education. The program emphasizes holistic, evidence-based practice with a strong commitment to social justice and ethical healthcare delivery.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to address the growing healthcare needs of an aging population. Students gain comprehensive skills in patient care across the adult lifespan, focusing on primary care settings from hospitals to community centers. The rigorous 69-credit-hour Doctor of Nursing Practice track equips graduates with advanced assessment, diagnostic, and treatment capabilities. Competitive admission requires a nursing degree and RN licensure, with students developing expertise in population health, evidence-based care, and leadership. Clinical partnerships in the Chicago metropolitan area provide hands-on experience in diverse healthcare environments.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University Chicago's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program equips experienced nurses to excel in high-intensity medical environments. This rigorous doctoral-level track prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for complex adult and geriatric patients across critical healthcare settings. Designed for working professionals, the hybrid program offers flexible part-time and full-time options. Students develop advanced clinical skills through a 71-credit curriculum combining online learning, simulation experiences, and customized clinical placements. Graduates gain expertise in managing acute and critical conditions, interpreting diagnostics, prescribing treatments, and addressing comprehensive patient needs in intensive care, trauma, neurology, and specialized hospital units.
Concentration: Oncology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program with Oncology specialization prepares advanced nursing professionals to address complex healthcare needs in aging populations. This rigorous Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track equips students with comprehensive skills in patient assessment, disease management, and evidence-based care. Students develop expertise in oncology, focusing on leadership, patient safety, and health equity across diverse clinical settings. The 72-semester-hour program offers personalized instruction with small class sizes, enabling graduates to assume system-wide leadership roles in oncology nursing.
Naperville, IL - Private 4-year - northcentralcollege.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Central College's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN track provides a dynamic pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. With a comprehensive 47-credit online program, students gain specialized skills in primary care across all life stages. The curriculum blends evidence-based didactic learning with 525 clinical practice hours, preparing graduates to diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic conditions. Competitive tuition with potential scholarships up to 25% makes this program accessible, while holistic admission criteria ensure a diverse, supportive learning environment.
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
North Central College's online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares students for advanced roles in mental health care. This program emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural inclusivity, and social justice. It's designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking to enhance their expertise in psychiatric care. The curriculum includes interprofessional collaboration and critical thinking skills. Admission requires a BSN, RN license, and a 3.0 GPA. Scholarships may reduce tuition costs by up to 25%. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Central College's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track in the Master of Science in Nursing prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across all life stages. This innovative hybrid program equips students with critical skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing acute and chronic conditions. With 47 credit hours and 525 clinical practice hours, students develop expertise in health promotion, disease prevention, patient counseling, and advanced clinical interventions. Tuition ranges from $16,080-$21,708 per year, with potential scholarship opportunities reducing costs by up to 25%. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, an unencumbered RN license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Central College's Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track offers a comprehensive online program designed to equip nurses with advanced skills in mental health care. Over 47 credit hours spanning 9 semesters, students learn to assess, diagnose, and manage acute and chronic mental health conditions across the lifespan. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and interprofessional collaboration. With competitive tuition costs ranging from $37,830 to $51,133 annually and potential scholarship opportunities reducing expenses by up to 25%, students can access a flexible learning environment. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, current RN license, and completion of undergraduate statistics.
Online Learning - Visit Website
North Central College's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track, within the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, prepares nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat psychiatric and mental health disorders across the lifespan. The program emphasizes holistic care, interprofessional collaboration, and cultural inclusivity. Graduates are eligible for national certification and Illinois licensure as PMHNP-BCs. Scholarships and financial aid are available to reduce tuition costs.
Many Illinois programs employ a hybrid format, delivering lectures and discussions online through asynchronous modules and live webinars, with on‑campus intensives for simulation labs and skills workshops. Clinical rotations are arranged locally at approved healthcare sites, allowing students to fulfill practicum requirements close to home. A few schools offer fully online didactic phases, requiring only occasional campus visits for in‑person assessments.
Certifying Board | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation, Nursing Section |
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Certification | National APRN credential (e.g., AANP, ANCC, PNCB, NCC) with primary-source verification to IDFPR |
License Renewal Period | Expires May 31 of every even-numbered year with renewal available two to three months prior |
Continuing Education | 80 contact hours biennially, including at least 20 hours of pharmacotherapeutics (10 in opioid/substance-abuse) plus required trainings such as implicit bias and sexual harassment prevention |
License Application Fee | $50 initial APRN application fee (temporary permit fee $75) |
Clinical Hours | Submit official graduate transcripts documenting required clinical practicum hours |
Processing Time | Approximately two to four weeks after receipt of a complete application |
Endorsement | Out-of-state APRNs must hold (or concurrently apply for) an Illinois RN license and submit primary-source verification of national APRN certification |
Nurse practitioners in Illinois earn an average annual salary around $120,000, with higher wages in metropolitan areas like Chicago and lower averages in rural regions. Employers often supplement compensation with sign‑on bonuses, loan repayment assistance, and robust benefits packages. Advanced certifications, specialized roles, and leadership positions can further boost earning potential.
Salary & Career Outlook | Illinois | USA |
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Avg Nurse Practitioner Salary | $119,053 | $62,340 |
Avg Hourly Wage | $57.00 | $29.97 |
90th Percentile Salary | >$133,241 | $80,510 |
Median Salary | $119,053 | $62,340 |
10th Percentile Salary | <$104,374 | $47,960 |
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~45% | ~3% |
Annual Job Openings | ~N/A | ~54,000 |
Data from Salary.com and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
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Many NPs pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice to qualify for leadership, academic, or executive roles, while post‑master’s certificate programs allow adding new specialties without completing another full degree. Those interested in research may enroll in PhD programs. Others leverage their skills in healthcare administration, informatics, policy development, telehealth, or community health leadership.
Learn more about Nurse Practitioner specialities.
Additional Nursing Programs in Illinois
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Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
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Concentration: Oncology - Campus Based - Website
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Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
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Concentration: Primary Care - Online Learning - Website
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Concentration: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
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Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
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Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
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Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
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Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
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Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
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Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
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