Finding and Choosing Nursing Programs in Illinois (2025)

Illinois offers ADN, BSN, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN options across community colleges and universities. Verify CCNE/ACEN accreditation, meet prerequisites and entrance-test requirements, and prioritize programs with solid clinical partnerships and strong NCLEX support. Apply early and consult program advisors for current seat availability and licensure guidance via the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Overview

Illinois offers a range of path ways into nursing: two-year associate programs (ADN), four-year bachelor programs (BSN), accelerated pre-licensure tracks, and RN-to-BSN or graduate options that are often available online or in hybrid formats. Community colleges, public and private universities, and dedicated nursing schools all run programs that include classroom learning and required clinical hours.

Program types and accreditation

Most students choose between an ADN (often at a community college) and a BSN (at a university). ADN graduates qualify to sit for the NCLEX-RN and become registered nurses; BSN graduates sit for the same exam and also gain stronger preparation for leadership, public health, and graduate study.

Check program accreditation before you apply. National accreditors include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). State oversight for licensure and practice is handled through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), which includes the Illinois Board of Nursing.

Admissions and prerequisites

Programs commonly require college-level prerequisites such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry, plus a background check and immunizations. Many schools use standardized entrance exams (for example, the TEAS or HESI) as part of admissions. Competitive programs may limit seats and use GPA, prerequisites, and test scores to rank applicants.

Apply early and attend information sessions or open houses to clarify deadlines and requirements. If you are a working adult, look for evening, hybrid, or online RN-to-BSN and accelerated options.

Clinical experience and job prospects

Clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community settings are a core part of most programs. Faculty and clinical partners often help students with job-search skills, resumes, and local hiring events. Demand for nurses in Illinois and nationwide remains strong, and graduates with BSNs or specialty training often have the broadest opportunities.

How to choose a program

1. Confirm accreditation (CCNE or ACEN).

1. Review prerequisites, costs, and financial-aid options.

1. Ask about clinical placements and employer partnerships.

1. Check NCLEX pass rates and job-placement support.

1. Consider program format: full-time, part-time, hybrid, or online.

Next steps

Start by making a short list of programs that match your schedule and career goals. Contact admissions advisors to confirm current application requirements, test expectations, and seat availability. The Illinois Board of Nursing (via IDFPR) and each school's admissions office can answer licensure and program-specific questions.

Nursing programs in Illinois remain a practical route to a stable, patient-centered career. With clear research and timely applications, you can find a program that fits your life and prepares you for practice.