As the healthcare industry shifts its focus to higher-quality patient care, many registered nurses (RNs) are feeling the need to continue their nursing education. Illinois is a great state for nurses who have previously completed an Associate's Degree in Nursing to pursue a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. With a plethora of schools in the state offering RN to BSN programs just for this purpose, there's never been a better time for RNs to advance their careers.

2025 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Illinois

Looking for the best online RN to BSN programs in Illinois? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight top programs that fit your needs. We focus on quality, flexibility, and affordability. Each program is checked to ensure it meets high standards. Start your journey to advance your nursing career today. Find the right program for you with our trusted list. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

University of St Francis

Joliet, IL - Private 4-year - stfrancis.edu

Bachelor's - BSN Completion

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of St. Francis offers a BSN Completion Program tailored for RNs aiming to elevate their nursing practice. This 100% online program is ideal for those with an associate degree or nursing diploma, focusing on enhancing leadership, research, and evidence-based practice skills. It stands out for its nationally recognized curriculum that integrates informatics and healthcare policy, preparing nurses for advanced roles in various healthcare environments. The program's flexibility supports working professionals, allowing them to balance studies with career commitments. Highlights include its online format, focus on leadership development, and a curriculum grounded in evidence-based practices.

  • 100% Online Program
  • For Experienced RNs
  • Leadership Skills Development
  • Evidence-Based Curriculum
  • Nationally Ranked Nursing Program
#2

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais, IL - Private 4-year - olivet.edu

Bachelor's - RN-BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Olivet Nazarene University offers an RN-BSN online program tailored for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. This 16-month program is entirely online, providing flexibility for working nurses. It focuses on enhancing leadership abilities, applying ethical practices, and deepening healthcare knowledge without the need for entrance exams. Participants must have a current RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.75. The curriculum includes 24 credit hours and 45 practicum hours, offering multiple start dates for convenience. Graduates are well-prepared for higher-paying positions and further education in nursing. Highlights include no exam coursework and a pathway to advanced degrees.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 16-month Core Program
  • 24 Credit Hours
  • 45 Practicum Hours
  • No Exam Coursework
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA Required
  • Current RN License Needed
  • Multiple Start Dates
  • Potential Salary Increase
  • Pathway to Advanced Degrees
#3

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Lewis University's RN to BSN program stands out for its hybrid format, combining online coursework with synchronous sessions to accommodate working nurses. This program is tailored for adult learners, offering a curriculum that emphasizes clinical judgment, leadership, and comprehensive patient care. Recognized among the top 5 in the Midwest, it allows students to transfer up to 12 nursing credit hours, accelerating their path to a BSN. With a 2.5 GPA requirement for admission, it's designed to be accessible while maintaining high educational standards. The program's focus on a personalized learning environment ensures that each student's professional experience is valued and integrated into their education.

  • Online and blended classes
  • Up to 12 nursing credit hours
  • 2.5 GPA admission requirement
  • Midwest top 5 ranked program
  • Personalized learning environment
  • Holistic patient care approach
  • Leadership skill development
#4

McKendree University

Lebanon, IL - Private 4-year - mckendree.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN Online)

Online Learning - Visit Website

McKendree University offers an online RN to BSN program tailored for registered nurses seeking to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership abilities. This program stands out for its affordability at $420 per credit hour and the flexibility of 8-week courses, allowing students to balance work and study. Accredited by CCNE, it emphasizes practical learning through two local practicum experiences without on-campus requirements. Designed to be completed in just three semesters, it prepares nurses for advanced roles by focusing on reducing health disparities and improving population health, aligning with national healthcare goals. Financial aid options and employer reimbursement possibilities make it an accessible choice for career advancement.

  • Online, flexible 8-week courses
  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • $420 per credit hour
  • Complete in 3 semesters
  • Two local practicum experiences
  • Supports career advancement
  • No on-campus requirements
  • Financial aid available
#5

Eastern Illinois University

Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu

Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Eastern Illinois University's RN to BSN online program is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program stands out for its affordability and efficiency, requiring just 32 credit hours at a tuition cost of $8,902, with completion possible in three semesters. Accredited by the CCNE, it emphasizes evidence-based and holistic nursing practices, offering an interdisciplinary curriculum. The program is entirely online, providing flexibility with five start dates each year. It's ideal for nurses looking to enhance their professional skills without sacrificing their current work commitments.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • 100% Online Coursework
  • 32 Total Credit Hours
  • Only $8,902 Tuition
  • Three Semester Completion
  • Five Annual Start Dates
  • Experienced Caring Faculty
  • Interdisciplinary Approach
  • Evidence-Based Curriculum
*Source: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/ (IPEDS 2023).

Fast & Affordable Program Options

One of the best decisions a nurse can make in their career is getting their bachelor’s degree. With a bachelor’s degree in nursing, nurses can pursue a wide range of higher-paying positions, maintain job security, and are more easily positioned to pursue higher-level degrees such as an MSN or DNP. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get your BSN, RN to BSN programs are specifically designed to lead to graduation sooner than a typical BSN program saving you both time and money.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

A traditional BSN program takes about 4 years to complete, but if you already have your nursing license and a few years of experience, you are eligible to get your BSN in as little as a year through an RN to BSN program. Here are a few of the quickest options for RN to BSN programs in Illinois:

SchoolDegree NameLength
Ambria CollegeRN to BSN8 Months
University of IllinoisRN to BSN1 Year

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

While no 6-month RN to BSN programs exist in Illinois, there are a select number of these programs available nationwide. These programs can be incredibly intense and will require applicants to have extensive experience in the field, a completed associate degree in nursing, and many transferable credits. If you think you might be eligible for a 6-month RN to MSN program, check with your prospective school’s registrar for more information.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

It’s no secret that BSN programs cost a lot of money, but one of the most immediate benefits of an RN to BSN program is its affordability. A traditional BSN program will run you thousands of dollars per year but because an RN to BSN program only takes about half the time (or less) to complete, you can expect to pay half price for your education. Keep in mind that some students may pay more or less than others based on their residency status in Illinois and the cost of other things such as technology fees and textbooks. In terms of tuition, the following are some of the most affordable RN to BSN programs in the state:

SchoolDegree NameTuition Cost
Illinois State UniversityRN to BSN$11,524 per year
Eastern Illinois UniversityOnline RN to BSN$8,902 per year

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

The admissions process for an RN to BSN program is not unlike other accredited college admissions; if you apply within the stated timeframe and meet the requirements, you have a great chance of being accepted. Below are some highlights of entrance requirements in the state:

  • Must show proof of current licensure as an RN in the state of Illinois
  • Must be a graduate of a state-approved diploma, associate degree program, or foreign nursing program
  • Must submit official transcripts from all colleges attended
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 is required

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

RN to BSN programs require a mix of non-nursing support courses, general education courses, electives, and nursing courses. Required nursing courses at Romeoville's Lewis University include:

  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Concepts of Professional Nursing
  • Health Assessment/Health Promotion
  • Pharmacotherapeutics for the Registered Nurse
  • Professional Development and Leadership

2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in Illinois

Learn about the best accredited RN to BSN degree programs in Illinois by looking at our listings below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

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Bourbonnais, IL

Olivet Nazarene University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 16-month Core Program
    • 24 Credit Hours
    • 45 Practicum Hours
    • No Exam Coursework
    • Minimum 2.75 GPA Required
    • Current RN License Needed
    • Multiple Start Dates

Carbondale, IL

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Degree Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program
    • 12-month completion option
    • CCNE accredited nursing program
    • Flexible curriculum design
    • Healthcare management minor available
    • Hands-on learning experiences
    • Collaboration with healthcare providers

Charleston, IL

Eastern Illinois University

  • Bachelor's - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • 100% Online Coursework
    • 32 Total Credit Hours
    • Only $8,902 Tuition
    • Three Semester Completion
    • Five Annual Start Dates
    • Experienced Caring Faculty
    • Interdisciplinary Approach

Chicago, IL

Chicago State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 120 total semester hours
    • 2.75 minimum GPA required
    • Current RN license mandatory
    • Campus-based program
    • Competitive admission process
    • Prerequisite course requirements
    • 29 hours of nursing curriculum

Dekalb, IL

Northern Illinois University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN - B.S.)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous program
    • 120 credit hours total
    • 33 transferable nursing credits
    • 8-week course format
    • No traditional exams
    • 2.75 minimum GPA required
    • Active RN license needed
    • Per credit tuition $377.04

Jacksonville, IL

Illinois College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN track
    • Holistic nursing framework
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Professional practice preparation
    • Flexible learning environment

Joliet, IL

University of St Francis

  • Bachelor's - BSN Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • For Experienced RNs
    • Leadership Skills Development
    • Evidence-Based Curriculum
    • Nationally Ranked Nursing Program

Lebanon, IL

McKendree University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN Online)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online, flexible 8-week courses
    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • $420 per credit hour
    • Complete in 3 semesters
    • Two local practicum experiences
    • Supports career advancement
    • No on-campus requirements
    • Financial aid available

Lisle, IL

Benedictine University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • 12-month accelerated format
    • Competitive private university tuition
    • Personalized academic support
    • Up to 3 years to complete
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA requirement
    • Current RN license required

River Forest, IL

Dominican University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN Degree Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • $550 per credit hour
    • Complete in 12 months
    • Full-time or part-time
    • Maximum 3 classes per term
    • Financial aid available
    • Experienced nursing faculty
    • CCNE accredited program

Romeoville, IL

Lewis University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online and blended classes
    • Up to 12 nursing credit hours
    • 2.5 GPA admission requirement
    • Midwest top 5 ranked program
    • Personalized learning environment
    • Holistic patient care approach
    • Leadership skill development

University Park, IL

Governors State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN to BSN program
    • ACEN accredited nursing program
    • Prepares nurse leaders
    • Affordable public school option
    • Career advancement pathway
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/