BSN Programs in Illinois (2026)

Compare 15 accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in Illinois — partner matches first, then our directory.

Illinois has 15 accredited BSN programs in the MyNursingSchools directory, including 7 online-listed options. Traditional BSN pathways usually take about four years; accelerated second-degree tracks can finish in 12–18 months; the fastest option listed for Illinois is 28 months. Listed total tuition ranges from $27,000 to $180,000. Illinois RNs earn an average of $91,130 (BLS May 2024). Prefer a faster, lower-cost RN path? Compare ADN programs in Illinois. Already licensed? See RN-to-BSN.

15

BSN Programs Listed

7

Online-Listed

28 mo

Fastest Option

$91K

Avg RN Salary

BSN Programs Available in Illinois

15 accredited programs — 7 online-listed, 2 hybrid.

Free info packetsNo obligationAccredited programs only

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Arizona College of Nursing logo

Arizona College of Nursing

CCNE-accredited accelerated BSN at Arizona College of Nursing campuses in 14+ states. 28-month intensive program for career changers with a prior bachelor's degree; CCNE-accredited with campus-based…

BSNOn CampusCCNEEst. $56,000 total
Western Governors University logo

Western Governors University

WGU's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure) program prepares you for a successful nursing career. This 100% online program requires 124 credits and can be completed in about 36 months, provi…

BSNOnlineCCNEEst. $35,700 total
Rasmussen University logo

Rasmussen University

ACEN-accredited pre-licensure BSN at Rasmussen University campuses and hybrid delivery in MN, WI, IL, IN, MO, FL, and ND. 36-month program with Empowered Learning format and NCLEX-RN preparation.

BSNOnline + CampusACENEst. $58,000 total
National University logo

National University

National University's BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a comprehensive pre-licensure pathway that prepares you for a successful nursing career. Offered entirely online, this 120-credit…

BSNOnlineCCNEEst. $45,000 total
Aspen University logo

Aspen University

Aspen University’s BSN — Pre-Licensure program offers a pathway for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This 120-credit program is fully online and can be completed in 36 months, makin…

BSNOnlineCCNEEst. $28,800 total
Chamberlain University logo

Chamberlain University

Chamberlain's BSN (Pre-Licensure Hybrid) program combines online learning with on-campus experiences. Over 36 months, you will complete 120 credits, allowing for flexibility while gaining essential n…

BSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $69,000 total
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences logo

Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences

CCNE-accredited pre-licensure BSN delivered online with clinical placements coordinated nationwide. Designed for students completing prerequisites while working; Utah DOPL-reported NCLEX outcomes exc…

BSNOnlineCCNEEst. $52,000 total
Chamberlain University logo

Chamberlain University

The on-campus BSN (Pre-Licensure) program provides a comprehensive education for those entering the nursing field. Over 36 months, you will complete 120 credits in a supportive learning environment,…

BSNOn CampusCCNEEst. $69,000 total
DePaul University logo

DePaul University

The Traditional BSN program at DePaul University is designed for students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered on-campus, this 120-credit program spans 48 months, providing you with th…

BSNOn CampusCCNEEst. $180,000 total
Rush University logo

Rush University

The Traditional BSN program at Rush University is a 120-credit, on-campus program designed to be completed in 48 months. This program prepares you to become a registered nurse with a solid foundation…

BSNOn CampusCCNEEst. $120,000 total
University of Illinois Chicago logo

University of Illinois Chicago

The Traditional BSN program at UIC is a four-year, on-campus degree designed to equip you with essential nursing skills and knowledge. With 120 credits, you will receive a strong foundation in nursin…

BSNOn CampusCCNEEst. $60,000 total
Loyola University Chicago logo

Loyola University Chicago

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Loyola University Chicago is a traditional on-campus program designed to prepare you for a career in nursing. Over 48 months, you will complete 120 credits…

BSNOn CampusCCNEEst. $160,000 total
Excelsior University logo

Excelsior University

The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) completion program at Excelsior University is available 100% online, allowing you to earn your degree on your schedule. This 120-credit program can be finishe…

BSNOnlineACENEst. $30,000 total
Southern New Hampshire University logo

Southern New Hampshire University

SNHU's BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program is a comprehensive online degree designed for those starting their nursing journey. This 120-credit program takes approximately 48 months to comple…

BSNOnlineACENEst. $50,400 total
American Public University System logo

American Public University System

The BSN program offers a comprehensive curriculum for individuals pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Delivered entirely online, this 36-month program requires 120 credits, allowing you to bal…

BSNOnlineCCNEEst. $27,000 total

Showing 15 of 15 programs. See all Illinois programs →

Compare 15 BSN Programs in Illinois

Tell us your timeline and format preference — we'll match you with accredited bachelor's nursing programs accepting applications.

Why Choose a BSN in Illinois?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is the preferred entry credential at many hospitals and the foundation for MSN, NP, and leadership pathways. In Illinois, BSN programs combine classroom science, simulation labs, and supervised clinical rotations so graduates are ready for the NCLEX-RN and bedside practice.

Illinois RNs earn an average of $91,130 per year, with 5.1% projected growth through 2032. BSN graduates often compete more strongly for Magnet-preferred roles and graduate-school admission.

If you already hold a non-nursing bachelor's, compare accelerated BSN programs in Illinois. If cost and speed to RN matter most, weigh an ADN plus a later RN-to-BSN bridge.

How to Choose a BSN Program in Illinois

Accreditation & Board Approval

Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation and Illinois Board of Nursing approval. Unapproved programs can block NCLEX eligibility.

Clinical Placement Capacity

Ask how clinical seats are assigned and whether waitlists are common. Strong hospital partnerships matter more than glossy campus tours.

NCLEX Outcomes

Review recent first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates for the program — see our Illinois NCLEX pass-rate guide for statewide context.

Total Cost & Timeline

Compare total tuition, fees, and expected length — not just sticker price per credit. Accelerated tracks cost more per month but may reduce opportunity cost.

Format Fit

Campus BSN programs suit first-time college students; hybrid and ABSN options fit career changers. Working RNs should use RN-to-BSN, not a second pre-licensure BSN.

Related: NCLEX pass rates in Illinois · Admission requirements · License requirements

Get Matched with BSN Programs in Illinois

RNs in Illinois average $91,130/year. Tell us your timeline and we'll match you with accredited BSN cohorts. Takes 30 seconds.

BSN Programs in Illinois: FAQ

How long does a BSN program take in Illinois?
Traditional BSN programs in Illinois typically take about four years of full-time study (roughly 36–48 months of nursing coursework after general education). Accelerated second-degree BSN options can finish in 12–18 months for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's. The shortest BSN option currently listed for Illinois is 28 months. Part-time tracks run longer but let you keep working.
How much does a BSN cost in Illinois?
Among BSN programs listed for Illinois, total tuition ranges from $27,000 to $180,000. Public in-state university rates are usually lower; private and accelerated programs cost more. Factor in fees, clinical supplies, and living costs when comparing offers.
Is a BSN better than an ADN in Illinois?
Both ADN and BSN graduates sit for the same NCLEX-RN and become registered nurses. A BSN is preferred by many Magnet hospitals and for leadership, public health, and graduate-school pathways. An ADN is usually cheaper and faster to RN licensure. Many Illinois nurses start with an ADN, then complete an RN-to-BSN bridge while working. Compare both: see ADN programs in Illinois and RN-to-BSN options.
Can I complete a BSN online in Illinois?
Pre-licensure BSN programs almost always require in-person clinicals and skills labs — fully online first-time RN pathways are rare. 7 online-listed BSN options appear for Illinois (often hybrid or bridge-style). Working RNs who already hold a license should look at RN-to-BSN programs instead of a second pre-licensure BSN.
What do BSN-prepared RNs earn in Illinois?
Registered nurses in Illinois average $91,130 per year (BLS May 2024), with 5.1% projected job growth through 2032. BSN-prepared nurses often qualify sooner for charge, specialty, and Magnet-preferred roles that sit at the higher end of that range.
What are the admission requirements for BSN programs in Illinois?
Most Illinois BSN programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, prerequisite science courses (anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry), a competitive GPA, and often the TEAS or a similar entrance exam. Accelerated BSN tracks require a prior non-nursing bachelor's. Always confirm prerequisites with the school and the Illinois Board of Nursing for program approval status.
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