Maria Delgado, RN
June 19, 2025
The RN to BSN programs serve registered nurses who possess an associate degree or diploma in nursing to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Illinois healthcare employers are increasing their demand for nurses who possess advanced education and leadership training because of these programs. Nurses holding a BSN degree improve patient care results while fulfilling the requirements of complex healthcare environments.
Joliet, IL - Private 4-year - stfrancis.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of St. Francis offers a BSN Completion Program designed for registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas, focusing on advancing careers through a fully online format. This program enhances critical thinking and leadership skills, covering essential areas like research, informatics, and healthcare policy to improve patient care in diverse settings. It is flexible for working professionals, allowing them to maintain employment while studying. As a bachelor's level program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams, making it accessible for RNs seeking to elevate their qualifications without additional testing barriers.
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's RN to BSN program provides a flexible hybrid format, blending online and synchronous learning for working registered nurses. With a 2.5 GPA admission requirement and no entrance exams like ACT or SAT needed, it allows up to 12 nursing credit transfers. Focused on developing advanced clinical judgment, leadership, and holistic care, it's recognized as a top 5 program in the Midwest, emphasizing personalized education and career advancement without a specific concentration.
Lebanon, IL - Private 4-year - mckendree.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
McKendree University's online RN to BSN program offers a flexible, accelerated path for registered nurses to advance their careers, with no ACT or SAT entrance exam required. This CCNE-accredited program can be completed in as few as three semesters through 8-week courses, focusing on enhancing clinical knowledge, leadership abilities, and patient care skills. At $420 per credit hour, it is an affordable option with financial aid availability, and includes two local practicum experiences to support real-world application without on-campus requirements.
Jacksonville, IL - Private 4-year - ic.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Illinois College's online RN to BSN program offers a flexible pathway for registered nurses to enhance their credentials with a holistic education rooted in dignity and compassion. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and critical thinking, it prepares nurses for modern healthcare demands without requiring an ACT or SAT entrance exam. The program supports working professionals through its adaptable online format, focusing on comprehensive patient care and professional development.
Bourbonnais, IL - Private 4-year - olivet.edu
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Olivet Nazarene University's RN-BSN online program offers a 16-month, fully remote curriculum for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. With no entrance exam required, it focuses on developing leadership, ethical decision-making, and healthcare knowledge through 24 credit hours and 45 practicum hours. The program is flexible, allowing students to continue working while pursuing their BSN, and requires a current RN license and a minimum 2.75 GPA. Graduates are prepared for higher salaries and pathways to graduate studies, with multiple start dates available for convenience.
Working nurses can access RN to BSN programs through online learning platforms throughout Illinois. Students who want to finish their coursework independently can take advantage of Illinois universities offering complete online programs without needing to visit campus. The programs work perfectly for nurses who maintain full-time employment because they help manage their education along with work and personal duties. Students who want both online and face-to-face interaction can enroll in hybrid programs that combine virtual classes with occasional campus meetings. The number of in-person RN to BSN programs decreases because online education continues to gain popularity. The educational institutions provide evening and weekend classes to support students who need nontraditional scheduling.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Dominican University |
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| McKendree University |
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| Southern Illinois University-Carbondale |
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| Certifying Board | Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Board of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Certification | Graduate from an IDFPR‑approved BSN program, disclose SSN or affidavit, complete fingerprint‑based background check, and pass the NCLEX‑RN |
| License Renewal Period | Biennial renewal by May 31 of even‑numbered years |
| Continuing Education | 20 contact hours per two‑year cycle (first renewal exempt), including sexual harassment prevention |
| License Application Fee | $98 exam application fee |
| Clinical Hours | Completion of required didactic coursework and clinical practicum hours, verified via transcripts and education form |
| Application Processing Time | Permanent license issued approximately 2–4 weeks after all documents are received, temporary permits issued as needed |
| License by Endorsement | $50 endorsement fee ($75 with temporary permit), submit active‑license verification, transcripts, fingerprint TCN, education form, and personal‑history documentation |
The salary levels of Illinois nurses with BSN degrees exceed those with associate degrees and they have improved career prospects. Registered nurses in Illinois receive salaries that place them among the highest paid in their field with BSN-prepared nurses receiving the highest compensation. Health care organizations operating in Chicago along with other large cities often provide financial benefits to nurses who hold advanced degrees. The nursing profession continues to welcome BSN-prepared nurses because of population aging, healthcare service needs, and nursing staff education demands. Illinois employers who seek Magnet status and other healthcare organizations require BSN degrees from their leadership candidates and specialty professionals.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Illinois | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual BSN Salary | $75,900 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $36.50 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$90,000 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $75,900 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$50,500 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) | 7% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~1,800 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Governors State University |
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| Eastern Illinois University |
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| Northern Illinois University |
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Illinois nurses who earn their BSN degree have access to various career advancement routes. Nurses who achieve their BSN level become qualified to take on supervisory positions that usually need higher education. BSN-prepared nurses usually take positions that include charge nurse roles, unit manager positions, and clinical coordinator roles. Public health, informatics, and care coordination require advanced academic preparation which the BSN degree provides. Many nurses use the BSN as a stepping stone toward graduate education, including master’s or doctoral programs in nursing. The career path of BSN-prepared nurses typically leads to advanced roles such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator or clinical nurse leader. BSN-prepared nurses obtain better opportunities to earn specialty certifications which both enhance their professional standing and increase their earning capacity. Continuing education moves toward strategic goals which promote lifelong learning. The BSN serves as an essential credential which drives both career advancement and professional growth for nurses across Illinois.
Additional Nursing Programs in Illinois
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