Accredited Nursing Schools & RN Salaries in Illinois
There are currently 222 accredited nursing programs evaluated across Illinois. Choosing the right program requires analyzing institutional accreditation, clinical hours, total program tuition, and first-time pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
Illinois nursing programs balance robust academic curricula with extensive clinical training requirements enforced by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), supporting major healthcare employers throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
Nursing Degree Pathways in Illinois
Candidates with prior non-nursing bachelor degrees can explore fast-track options via Accelerated BSN Programs (ABSN), while working associate-degree nurses can pursue flexible upward mobility through RN-to-BSN Bridge Programs. Ensure you meet entrance testing standards by reviewing our TEAS Exam Preparation Guide and secure funding through our Nursing Financial Aid & Scholarship Guide.
Average RN Salary & Career Outlook in Illinois
Licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) in Illinois earn an average annual salary of approximately $95,990, which translates to roughly $46.15 per hour based on BLS occupational employment data. Compare regional variance across the country on our comprehensive National RN Salary Directory.
Annual Mean Salary
$95,990
Official state workforce wage estimates.
Estimated Hourly Rate
$46.15
Based on full-time 2,080-hour work schedule.
Evaluated Programs
222 Schools
Accredited degree tracks across the state.
Earnings and career velocity are heavily tied to specialized credentials (ER, ICU, NICU), advanced certifications, and institutional prestige. Ensure any school you evaluate maintains active accreditation verified through our Nursing School Accreditation Guide.
All Illinois Nursing Programs
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Crystal Lake, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
College of DuPage
ABSNGlen Ellyn, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
East-West University
ABSNChicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Charleston, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Elgin, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Elmhurst University
ABSNElmhurst, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Eureka College
ABSNEureka, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Crystal Lake, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Fox College
ABSNTinley Park, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Evanston, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Lisle, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
DePaul University
ABSNChicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
River Forest, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Chicago, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Danville, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Urbana, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Essential Nursing Student Toolkit
3M Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
Gold standard diagnostic tool required across clinical rotations.
Nurse Notes NCLEX Guide
Comprehensive study guide tailored for Next Gen NCLEX board preparation.
Foldable Nursing Clipboard
Compact aluminum clipboard with quick-reference medical cheat sheets.
Sockwell Compression Socks
Graduated support socks to prevent fatigue during long clinical shifts.
Medical Penlight & Scissors Kit
Essential pocket kit featuring a diagnostic penlight and bandage shears.