Illinois' position as a leader in the healthcare industry is mainly driven by medical research centers, hospitals, and nursing schools located in the Chicago area, but locals and out-of-staters alike may be surprised to learn that even Illinois' many rural communities have a wealth of opportunities for nurses looking to start a new career journey as an executive-level nurse or nurse practitioner. If this is a path you are considering, you will at a minimum need a Master of Nursing Science (MSN). To learn about the many types of MSN programs, bridge programs, and how to find the cheapest and fastest MSN programs in the state, see the sections below.

2025 - Best Online MSN Programs in Illinois

RegisteredNursing.org has identified the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in Illinois for 2025. These programs are celebrated for their strong academic standards, flexible learning options, and dedication to advancing the nursing profession. Rankings are based on a detailed methodology assessing academic quality, accessibility, and student success. For more information, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

Peoria, IL

Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing offers MSN programs that focus on holistic, patient-centered care and evidence-based practice. The nursing department emphasizes the importance of compassion, ethics, and leadership in the nursing profession. With a strong focus on interprofessional collaboration and advanced clinical skills, graduates of this program are well-prepared to excel in their nursing careers.

MSN Programs
2.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offers highly reputable MSN programs through its renowned nursing department. The department's philosophy centers around providing a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, SIUE's MSN programs prepare nurses to excel in a variety of healthcare settings and make a positive impact on patient outcomes.

MSN Programs
3.

Bradley University

Peoria, IL

Bradley University offers top-rated MSN programs through its renowned nursing department, known for its evidence-based practice and patient-centered care philosophies. The university's partnerships with leading healthcare facilities provide students with hands-on clinical experiences and networking opportunities. With a focus on innovation and leadership, Bradley's MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced roles in the ever-evolving healthcare field.

MSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs in Illinois

If this isn’t your first time going to nursing school, then you’re likely wondering if there are any shortcuts that you can take to expedite the process. If you have an associate’s degree and an RN license, you likely qualify for an RN to MSN program. While getting a BSN plus an MSN will take upwards of eight years, through an RN to MSN, you can get your MSN in as little as 2 years! Below are some additional admissions requirements:

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • Illinois RN license
  • ADN or nursing diploma
  • GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
  • Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
  • Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

Two examples of RN to MSN programs located in Illinois are offered by The University of Illinois (UIC) and DePaul University. Other examples include:

Chicago, IL

School of Nursing, College of Science and Health
1 E. Jackson
Chicago, IL 60604
(773) 325-1887

College of Nursing
600 S. Paulina St.
Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 942-2308

School of Nursing
3700 West 103rd Street
Chicago, IL 60655
(773) 298-3706

College of Nursing
1200 W Harrison St
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 996-7808

Elmhurst, IL

Department of Nursing
190 Prospect Avenue
Elmhurst, IL 60126
(630) 617-3314

Lebanon, IL

Division of Nursing
701 College Rd
Lebanon, IL 62254

Peoria, IL

Department of Nursing
1501 West Bradley Avenue
Peoria, IL 61625
(309) 677-2547

Master of Science in Nursing Program
511 NE Greenleaf St
Peoria, IL 61603

Rock Island, IL

Trinity College of Nursing
2122 25th Avenue
Rock Island, IL 61201
(309) 779-7708

Romeoville, IL

College of Nursing and Health Professions
One University Parkway
Romeoville, IL 60446
(815) 836-5245

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Illinois

Going to graduate school is certainly a period of transition for many students, and many assume that continuing your position as a registered nurse is simply not possible. The good news for working nurses is that you don’t have to sacrifice your paycheck or your schedule while getting your MSN degree; many MSN degree programs in Illinois offer flexible online programs and reasonable budgets. See below for more information.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

If you’re sticking with a traditional MSN program, you’ll be looking at around a 3 – 4 year commitment. However, not all MSN programs in Illinois take this long. In fact, if you know where to look, you can find online MSN programs in Illinois or attend summer school. Some are simply shorter than others; see below for a few examples.

SchoolEstimated LengthOnline Option?
University of Illinois, Springfield (UIS)2 YearsYes
Northern Illinois University (NIU)2 YearsYes
Illinois College (IC)12 – 18 MonthsYes

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

If you’re aiming to save on nurse practitioner education, Illinois offers numerous affordable options worth exploring. As you evaluate programs, consider factors that impact tuition, such as program size, additional fees, cost of living, and residency status. Below are a few schools known for offering lower-cost MSN programs.

SchoolEstimated CostCredits
Northern Illinois University (NIU)$27,000 – $35,00041 Credits
Methodist University (MU)$15,000 – $20,00035 Credits
Governors State University (GovState)$25,000 – $30,00042 – 47 Credits

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs are tailored for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and wish to transition into nursing. These programs combine the essential coursework of both a BSN and an MSN into a streamlined, intensive curriculum. By integrating foundational nursing education with advanced studies, MENP programs enable students to achieve their goals faster and more cost-effectively compared to pursuing separate degrees. Graduates are prepared not only for licensure as registered nurses but also for leadership or specialized roles in healthcare. Below are the admissions requirements typically asked of MENP students:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
  • GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
  • Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
  • Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
  • Admissions interview

If you’re ready to start applying, see these popular examples offered by DePaul University and Aurora University (AU).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

As you explore potential MSN programs, it's important to consider whether they offer opportunities to specialize. Many programs allow students to focus their studies on specific areas of interest, such as family practice, psychiatric-mental health, or pediatrics. Specialization can enhance your career prospects and align your education with your professional goals. Here are some examples of specialized MSN programs in Illinois.

SchoolSpecialtyCredits
Illinois State University (ISU)Family Nurse Practitioner34 Credits
Northern Illinois University (NIU)Nursing Administration41 Credits
Illinois College (IC)Nurse Leadership/Administration30 – 45 credits

What is MSN Accreditation?

The final thing you’ll need to consider (and arguably the most important) is MSN accreditation. Accreditation is the formal approval of a program’s curriculum by the state board. Accrediting bodies in the US that approve MSN programs are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). If you graduate from an MSN program that is accredited, you will be able to pursue licensure and certification, however, if it is not accredited, you may run into issues.

2025 List of MSN Programs in Illinois

Looking for more options? Take a look at the full list of MSN options in Illinois below:

MSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Bourbonnais, IL

Olivet Nazarene University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 52 Total Credit Hours
    • 720 Clinical Hours Required
    • 36-Month Completion Timeline
    • Tuition: $690 Per Credit Hour
    • National Certification Preparation
    • Transfer Friendly Program
    • Multiple Start Dates Available
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 30 months program length
    • $12K total tuition
    • 8-week accelerated classes
    • 36 total credit hours
    • $690 per credit hour
    • Requires BSN degree
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement

Chicago, IL

DePaul University

  • Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner Track, Nursing (MSN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online MSN program
    • 500 clinical training hours
    • National certification preparation
    • Multiple course tracks available
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • Comprehensive population health curriculum
    • Bridge courses for ADN students
    • Includes pathophysiology training
  • Master's - Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Track

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN specialty track
    • 600 clinical practice hours
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Advanced gerontological nursing focus
    • Comprehensive clinical management training
  • Master's - Nursing Administration Track, Nursing (MSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN Nursing Administration
    • Interprofessional health administration courses
    • 105-hour leadership practicum
    • Graduate certificate option
    • Pursue nurse executive certification

Loyola University Chicago

  • Master's - MSN in Nursing and Healthcare Administration

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 39 credit hour program
    • Ranked #3 in Chicago nursing
    • Tuition $1,240 per credit
    • BSN degree required
    • 3.0 minimum GPA
    • 2 recommendation letters
    • Professional resume needed

North Park University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Evening classes for working professionals
    • CCNE accredited nursing program
    • State-of-the-art simulation laboratory
    • Advanced clinical practice opportunities
    • Specialized adult-gerontology focus
  • Master's - MSN/MBA

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Dual MSN/MBA degree option
    • Christian liberal arts approach
    • Urban health focus
    • Interprofessional collaboration
    • Leadership and management tracks
    • Advanced practice nursing options
    • Flexible program structure
    • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Evening class schedule
    • Comprehensive patient care focus
    • Advanced practice nursing skills
    • Chicago campus location
    • State-of-the-art simulation lab
    • Multiple healthcare work settings
    • Patient care from infancy to end-of-life

Rush University

  • Master's - MSN Nursing Leadership: Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) for RNs

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Part-time, 2-year duration.
    • $1,384 per credit hour.
    • Two brief campus visits required.
    • Clinical experiences at your location.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.
    • Focus on evidence-based practice.
    • Highly sought-after graduates.

Saint Xavier University

  • Master's - MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online with 2 campus visits
    • 3-year program, 47 credit hours
    • Tuition: $750 per credit hour
    • Total approximate cost: $35,250
    • Next start date: Fall I - August 25, 2025
    • Priority application deadline: July 15
    • 600 clinical practicum hours
    • 100% national certification exam pass rate

Dekalb, IL

Northern Illinois University

  • Master's - M.S. in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online master's degree format
    • Nursing Education specialization available
    • 38 total credit hours
    • Tuition $509.75 per credit
    • 6-year program completion window
    • Fall application deadline July 15
    • Spring application deadline January 9
    • Requires 2,000 clinical hours
  • Master's - M.S. in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online master's degree format
    • Family Nurse Practitioner specialization
    • 50 total credit hours
    • Part-time or full-time options
    • Six-year program completion window
    • Tuition per credit: $749.75
    • 95% job placement rate
    • Fall application deadline: July 15

Downers Grove, IL

Midwestern University-Downers Grove

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing / Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited program
    • 24-month online format
    • Covers adolescence to end of life
    • Small class size (15 students)
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • High earning potential career
    • Interprofessional healthcare training

Edwardsville, IL

Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville

  • Master's - Nurse Educator

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online MSN program
    • 270 hours face-to-face practicum
    • Individualized clinical experiences
    • Total program cost: $17,002
    • High demand nationally
    • Corporate partnership options
    • 33 total credit hours
    • Clinical courses with $340 fee

Elmhurst, IL

Elmhurst University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year on-campus program
    • Three concentration options
    • Estimated tuition $25,740
    • Part-time cohort model
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Intensive seven-week blocks
    • Fall start only
    • Two clinical courses second year

Joliet, IL

University of St Francis

  • Master's - Nursing Administration

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online delivery format
    • $799 per credit hour
    • 24-48 month program length
    • Prepares nurses for leadership roles
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • CCNE accredited program
    • New cohorts every semester
  • Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online and in-person options
    • $799 per credit hour
    • 24-48 month program length
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Certification exam eligibility
    • Multiple clinical concentrations
    • Flexible learning environment
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online and in-person options
    • $799 per credit hour
    • 24-48 months program length
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • CCNE accredited program
    • AANP certification eligible
    • Flexible sixteen-week cycles
    • New cohorts every semester

Lebanon, IL

McKendree University

  • Master's - Dual MSN/MBA

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program format
    • Three specialized nursing tracks
    • Completed in 5 semesters
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Small class sizes
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Dual MSN/MBA option available
    • Experienced nursing faculty

Lisle, IL

Benedictine University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration

    Concentration: Nurse Executive Leader - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online dual degree program
    • Nurse Executive Leader concentration
    • 23 total courses
    • Less than 4 years completion
    • Designed for working professionals
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.)

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN program
    • Two-year completion time
    • CCNE Accredited program
    • Nurse Educator concentration available
    • Practicum in clinical setting
    • Meets AACN master's outcomes
    • Two concentration options
    • Potential $40k salary increase
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Executive Leader - Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN program
    • Nurse Executive Leader concentration
    • Flexible learning format
    • Advanced nursing leadership
    • Strategic management focus

Naperville, IL

North Central College

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Executive Leader - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 36 credit hours, 6 semesters
    • Online with 2-3 campus visits
    • 500 clinical practicum hours
    • Nurse leadership focus
    • Total direct costs $30,094
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Current RN license needed
    • Hybrid program format
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration Dual Degree

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online with 2-3 campus visits
    • 36 credit hours total
    • 500 practicum hours required
    • Dual MSN-MBA option available
    • Scholarships up to 25%
    • Holistic admissions process
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 47 credit hours, 9 semesters
    • Online program with 2-3 campus visits
    • 525 clinical practice hours
    • Tuition potential scholarships 25%
    • Holistic admission approach
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • BSN from accredited program
    • Current unencumbered RN license
  • Master's - MSN: Nurse Educator

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online MSN: Nurse Educator track
    • Tuition reduction up to 25%
    • Holistic admission approach
    • Cumulative GPA 3.0 required
    • Three recommendation letters needed
    • Spring/Fall 2025 start dates
    • Unencumbered RN license required
    • Campus visits 2-3 times

Normal, IL

Illinois State University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Partially online delivery format
    • 44 credit hours total
    • 660 clinical practice hours
    • 2-3 year completion time
    • Fall term start date
    • Priority application: Oct 1 - Feb 1
    • Full application period: Oct 1 - June 1
    • Preparation for FNP certification

Peoria, IL

Bradley University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN-FNP program
    • Three educational pathways
    • 74 credit hours for ADN track
    • 65 credit hours for BSN track
    • 44 credit hours for MSN certificate
    • 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
    • Active nursing license needed
    • Five clinical practicums
  • Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online AGPCNP program
    • Multiple entry pathways
    • 600 clinical practicum hours
    • Multiple degree options
    • Advanced nursing preparation
    • Certification exam eligibility
    • Comprehensive patient care focus
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN specialty track
    • 600 clinical practice hours
    • ANCC certification eligible
    • Acute care nurse focus
    • Advanced patient management skills
  • Master's - MSN Nursing Administration

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN Nursing Administration
    • 30-39 semester hour program
    • 300 hours practicum experience
    • Nurse executive certification prep
    • Leadership focused curriculum

Romeoville, IL

Lewis University

  • Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
    • Employer tuition assistance
    • Advanced patient care skills
    • Potential $120K average salary
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • Focus on healthcare leadership.
    • Requires BSN and RN license.
    • Prepares for management roles.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Improves patient care outcomes.
    • Develops practical leadership skills.
    • For working professionals.
  • Master's - MSN/MBA Dual Degree

    Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid flexible format
    • Working adult focused program
    • Healthcare systems leadership
    • Competitive tuition options
    • Employer tuition assistance
    • IONL 15% tuition discount
    • Dual MSN/MBA credential
    • Accelerated graduate curriculum

University Park, IL

Lewis University

  • Master's - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 12:1 student-faculty ratio
    • Employer tuition assistance
    • Advanced patient care skills
    • Potential $120K average salary
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • Focus on healthcare leadership.
    • Requires BSN and RN license.
    • Prepares for management roles.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Improves patient care outcomes.
    • Develops practical leadership skills.
    • For working professionals.
  • Master's - MSN/MBA Dual Degree

    Concentration: Healthcare Systems Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid flexible format
    • Working adult focused program
    • Healthcare systems leadership
    • Competitive tuition options
    • Employer tuition assistance
    • IONL 15% tuition discount
    • Dual MSN/MBA credential
    • Accelerated graduate curriculum