Best Nursing Colleges in Illinois

Illinois has numerous renowned nursing programs that prepare students to excel in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry. Here, we explore ten of the best nursing colleges in Illinois, delving into their respective nursing programs, annual cost, enrollment, and SAT range.

University of Illinois–Chicago

Information About Nursing Programs

The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing offers a variety of programs, including traditional BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. The school is recognized for its innovative curriculum and research contributions to nursing.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is $16,000 for in-state students and $27,000 for out-of-state students. The university enrolls over 30,000 students, with an SAT range of 1020-1240 for incoming students.

Rush University

Information About Nursing Programs

Rush University’s College of Nursing provides comprehensive nursing education through its DNP, MSN, BSN, and Ph.D. programs. The programs focus on clinical competence and nursing leadership.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

Rush University is a private institution with a higher estimated annual cost of $40,000. It enrolls over 2,500 students. Rush does not require the SAT for admission, focusing more on the individual’s professional and academic achievements.

Loyola University Chicago

Information About Nursing Programs

Loyola University Chicago’s Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The school is known for its commitment to social justice, innovative research, and extensive clinical experiences.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $45,000. Loyola enrolls over 16,000 students, with an SAT range of 1120-1320 for incoming students.

Lewis University

Information About Nursing Programs

Lewis University’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences provides a comprehensive range of nursing programs, including BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, and DNP. The programs emphasize ethical practice, leadership, and service.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $33,000. Lewis University enrolls over 6,500 students, with an SAT range of 1020-1220 for incoming students.

University of St. Francis (Leach)

Information About Nursing Programs

The Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and certificate programs. The programs are built upon a foundation of liberal arts and sciences and are designed to develop competent and caring healthcare professionals.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $33,000. The university enrolls over 3,500 students, with an SAT range of 990-1180 for incoming students.

Elmhurst University

Information About Nursing Programs

Elmhurst University’s Department of Nursing and Health Sciences offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. The programs are designed to provide a strong foundation in nursing theory and various clinical experiences.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $38,000. Elmhurst University enrolls over 3,500 students, with an SAT range of 1020-1230 for incoming students.

Northern Illinois University

Information About Nursing Programs

Northern Illinois, University’s School of Nursing offers a range of programs from BSN to DNP, focusing on preparing students for versatile roles in healthcare.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is $14,000 for in-state students and $25,000 for out-of-state students. The university enrolls over 16,000 students, with an SAT range of 990-1170 for incoming students.

Bradley University

Information About Nursing Programs

Bradley University’s College of Education and Health Sciences offers BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical practice.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $35,000. Bradley University enrolls over 5,000 students, with an SAT range of 1080-1290 for incoming students.

Millikin University

Information About Nursing Programs

Millikin University’s School of Nursing provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. The curriculum incorporates high-quality clinical experiences and promotes leadership development.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $37,000. Millikin University enrolls over 2,000 students, with an SAT range of 1000-1200 for incoming students.

Benedictine University

Information About Nursing Programs

Benedictine University offers a variety of nursing programs, including BSN, RN-BSN, and MSN. The programs emphasize ethical practice and culturally competent care.

Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range

The estimated annual cost is around $35,000. Benedictine University enrolls over 4,000 students, with an SAT range of 960-1160 for incoming students.

Best Nursing Colleges in Three Other States

Best Nursing Colleges in Iowa

Prominent nursing schools in Iowa include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa.

Best Nursing Colleges in Michigan

Michigan is home to top-tier nursing schools such as the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University.

Best Nursing Colleges in Indiana

In Indiana, prospective nursing students can look to institutions like Indiana University, Purdue University, and the University of Notre Dame for top-rated nursing programs.

How to Prepare for the SAT On Your Own

Self-study for the SAT can be practical with the right approach. It involves setting a study schedule, understanding the test format, focusing on weaker areas, practicing with accurate SATs, and consistently reviewing and learning from mistakes. Using online resources and SAT prep books can also be immensely helpful.