RN to BSN Programs Chicago, IL

The shortage of nurse leaders has been more concerning to the healthcare industry than the ongoing shortage of professional nurses to provide bedside care. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, more than one million nurses will retire in the next decade. They will vacate the workforce taking a wealth of knowledge and experience, and leaving behind more leadership positions than there are qualified nurses to fill. The new generation of nurses must further their education to move up the nursing career ladder and fill vacant spots. The RN to BSN program prepares registered nurses to become nurse leaders in 12 to 18 months. The convenience and flexibility of online learning mean you can continue your education without major disruptions in your work schedule. By the time you graduate, you will be adequately equipped to be a leader in your organization, assume greater responsibilities, earn a higher salary, and enter a graduate program to assume an advanced practice role.

University of Illinois Chicago

The online RN to BSN program offered by the University of Illinois Chicago prepares registered nurse students to adapt to the evolving needs in health care. Nurses who hold a current license to practice can enroll in the program and improve their career opportunities. They will explore advanced concepts that guide continuity and safety of care, the provision of population-based health care, and principles of evidence-based research to use in practice. The online study focuses on critical thinking, collaborative learning, and engagement with expert faculty and offers flexibility, convenience, and affordability for working nurses. Graduates will receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing after successful completion of all the program requirements and acquisition of 33 credit hours for prior education.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 30 core courses
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – English Composition I, English Composition II, Chemistry, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Lifespan Human Growth and Development, Understanding the Individual and Society, Understanding the Past, Understanding the Creative Arts, Exploring World Cultures, Understanding US Society, Liberal Arts and Sciences Elective

Core courses – Health Assessment and Communication, Concepts in Professional Nursing, Nursing Research and Statistics for Evidence Based Practice, Introduction to Nursing Informatics, Caring Theory in Professional Nursing Practice, Population Focused Nursing Care, Nursing Health Promotion, Leadership and Management in Nursing, Nursing Role in Healthcare Quality and Safety, Issues in Nursing Practice

Admission criteria:

  • Must have a current RN license or have completed a degree in nursing and waiting to sit for the NCLEX exam. Proof of passing the exam must be provided by the end of the first semester
  • Must request transcripts from prior institutions to the be submitted to UIC
  • Must have a minimum 2.5 GPA on all previous undergraduate coursework
  • Complete an application online and pay the $60 non-refundable application fee
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Tuition costs $9,900. Library and technology fees cost an additional $19 per credit hour.

  • Website: https://www.uic.edu/
  • Address: 845 S. Damen Ave., MC 802, Chicago, IL 60612
  • Phone: 312.996.7800
  • Email: con@uic.edu

Chamberlain College

Chamberlain College prepares registered nurses for a BSN degree in just one year. The fully online program includes relentless personalized support to help students achieve their personal and professional goals in nursing. Chamberlain offers experienced faulty with real-world experience, flexible schedules to fit nurses’ lifestyle, and affordable tuition. The practice-focused curriculum covers topics like community-based health issues, disaster planning, at-risk population services, leadership, and practical concepts that can be immediately implemented in the workplace.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 45
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – Fundamentals of Microbiology with Lab, Anatomy and Physiology I, II, III, and IV, Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry with Lab, English Composition, Principles of Ethics, Critical Reasoning, Psychology, Lifespan Development, Interpersonal Communication

Core courses – Transition in Professional Nursing, Advanced English Composition, Health Assessment for the Practicing RN, Collaborative Healthcare, Statistical Reasoning for the Health Sciences, RN Evidence-Based Practice, Introduction to the Humanities, US History, RN Community Health Nursing, RN Community Health Nursing, RN Community Health Nursing, Political Science, Capstone Course, RN Information Systems in Healthcare

Admission criteria:

  • Must have a current RN license in the US or in a jurisdiction that is an associate member of the NCSBN
  • Must have a nursing diploma or associate degree in nursing from an accredited institution
  • Must request transcripts from prior institutions to the be submitted to Chamberlain
  • Must have a minimum 2.0 GPA on all previous undergraduate coursework

The program cost of $29,800 includes tuition, application fee, background check, fingerprint/drug screen fee, student service charges, books, supplies, and electronic course resource fee.

University of Illinois Chicago – Extended Campus

The online RN to BSN program offered by the University of Illinois Chicago Extended Campus is designed for registered nurses seeking to complete the bachelor of science in nursing. Applicants must have completed a diploma or associate degree in nursing and hold current licensure in the state of residence before applying to the program. Applicants who have note yet completed the NCLEX for state licensure may apply but the registered nurse license must be issued before the end of the first semester. The program covers advanced concepts that guide continuity and safety of care, the provision of population-based health care, and principles of evidence-based research to use in practice. Students will improve key skills such as critical thinking and collaborative learning. The fully online program gives nurses the convenience of continuing their studies while employed. RNs will receive up to 33 credits for previous education. They will need to complete 30 core credits and any general education requirements to graduate.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 30 core courses
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – English Composition I, English Composition II, Chemistry, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Lifespan Human Growth and Development, Understanding the Individual and Society, Understanding the Past, Understanding the Creative Arts, Exploring World Cultures, Understanding US Society, Liberal Arts and Sciences Elective

Core courses – Health Assessment and Communication, Concepts in Professional Nursing, Nursing Research and Statistics for Evidence Based Practice, Introduction to Nursing Informatics, Caring Theory in Professional Nursing Practice, Population Focused Nursing Care, Nursing Health Promotion, Leadership and Management in Nursing, Nursing Role in Healthcare Quality and Safety, Issues in Nursing Practice

Admission criteria:

  • Must have a current RN license or have completed a degree in nursing and waiting to sit for the NCLEX exam. Proof of passing the exam must be provided by the end of the first semester
  • Must request transcripts from prior institutions to be submitted to UIC
  • Must have a minimum 2.5 GPA on all previous undergraduate coursework
  • Complete an application online and pay the $60 non-refundable application fee
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Tuition costs $9,900. Library and technology fees cost an additional $19 per credit hour.

  • Website: https://ec.uic.edu/nursing/
  • Address: 1333 S. Halsted St., Suite 205 Chicago, IL 60607
  • Phone: (312) 355-0423
  • Email: extendedcampus@uic.edu

Mennonite College of Nursing

Mennonite College of Nursing offers an online RN to BSN program for licensed registered nurses who have completed an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing program. They can enroll in the program to complete the requirements for a bachelor of science in nursing degree. The online program ranks among the best in the nation. The non-profit organization Quality Matters recognizes the school’s online format as internationally quality-certified. Students will complete the full program online in just one year of full-time attendance or 2 years part-time. New students are admitted in the Spring and Fall terms. They are admitted on a rolling basis.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 31 plus any general education courses needed
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – Writing Composition I, Oral Communication, Writing Composition II, Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Science, Social and Behavioral Science: 3 courses needed from 2 disciplines, Humanities and Fine Arts: 3 courses total at least one humanities and one fine arts, General Psychology, Lifespan Development, Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Nutrition

Core courses – Concepts of Professional Nursing I: RN to BSN, Research for Professional Nursing Practice: RN to BSN, Health Assessment Across the Lifespan: RN to BSN, Pathophysiology and Pharmacotherapeutics in Nursing I: RN to BSN, Public Health Nursing: RN to BSN, Culturing & Spiritual Dimensions in Healthcare: RN to BSN, Pathophysiology & Pharmacotherapeutics in Nursing II: RN to BSN, Concepts of Professional Nursing II: RN to BSN, Leadership Dimensions in Professional Nursing: RN to BSN

Admission criteria:

  • Must have graduated from a state-approved diploma school or nursing or an associate degree nursing program
  • Must be a licensed registered nurse in the current state of residence
  • Must have a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA on all previous undergraduate coursework
  • Complete the required health and safety compliance requirements
  • Must complete the general education courses with a grade C or better
  • Must have current, up-to-date immunizations including COVID-19 vaccination
  • Complete a criminal background check and drug screen
  • Submit a completed application for admission online
  • Submit transcripts of non-ISU coursework with the application
  • Submit a 2-page maximum essay on why you’re pursuing an advanced degree and your goals for the program
  • Submit a resume that includes education, certifications, professional community memberships, awards, work experience, and scope of responsibility

Tuition costs $492 per credit hour. Additional costs not covered include books, supplies, uniforms, background check, and health requirements.

Chicago State University  

The RN to BSN pathway provides registered nurses who have completed a state-approved and nationally accredited associate degree or diploma program an opportunity to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Faculty recognize students as an adult learner who has completed a degree with a major in nursing and as a licensed professional. The RN to BSN track builds on this prior knowledge and experience to avoid redundancy. It comprises of 120 credit hours including credit awarded for previous coursework. Graduates have the option to continue their studies to obtain an advance nursing degree.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 120 – verified candidates will receive 30 credits for unrestricted RN license
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – College Algebra, Biology Science Survey I & Lab, Introduction to Psychology, Composition II, General and Organic Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I Lecture and Lab, Life Span Development, Introduction to Microbiology Lecture and Lab, Introduction to Health Professions, Anatomy and Physiology II Lecture and Lab, Statistics, Critical Thinking, Service Learning, Speech

Core courses – Professional Development RNs, Health Assessment, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Pathophysiology, Health Promotion RNs, Community Based Care of Family, Research Methods, Nursing Leadership and Management, Advanced Therapeutics

Admission criteria:

  • Must submit the nonrefundable university application fee
  • Submit official transcripts from degree-granting institution, reflecting a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale
  • Must provide verification of RN license – unrestricted license to practice in the State of Illinois required
  • Must have an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma from an accredited nursing program
  • Submit verification of work experience acknowledgement form
  • Meet the university prerequisite requirements for Bachelor Degree criteria
  • Submit a brief essay (200 to 400 words) describing factors that influenced your decision to enter the nursing profession and professional aspirations following completion of the program

Tuition costs $319 per credit hour. Additional costs not covered include books, supplies, uniforms, background check, and health requirements.

Western Illinois University – School of Nursing

The Online RN-BSN Completion Program is designed for working nurses who have either an Associate’s degree or diploma in nursing and currently licensed to practice nursing. Completion of all general education and nursing support courses is required before commencing the nursing program. Some courses may be completed concurrently with nursing. Coursework is delivered online. Students must complete a clinical practicum as a requirement for the community health course. Graduates will be awarded after fulfillment of the 125-semester hour requirement – completed and transferred coursework.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 125 including transferred courses
Duration: 12 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – Core Comp Math, Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, Fine Arts Elective, Introduction to Microbiology, College Writing, Introduction to Nutrition, Philosophy, Humanities Elective, Human Well Being Elective, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, General Chemistry I, Multicultural Elective, College Writing II, Social Science Elective, General Elementary Stats, Intro to Life Span Development, Intro to Public Speaking

Core courses – Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations of Professional Nursing, Health Assessment, Genetics in Health, Transcultural Nursing, Ethical and Legal, Nursing Research, Nursing Elective, Nursing and the Community, Pathophysiology and Psychopathology, Professional Seminar, Nursing Leadership, Management and Policy, Nursing Elective

Admission criteria:

  • Submit an application to the nursing school by the stipulated deadline – students will be considered pre-BSN until all Nursing Major admission requirements are met
  • Submit a current copy of the State License to practice nursing as a Registered Professional Nurse
  • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA
  • Submit official transcripts with the application for admission
  • Submit letters of reference from two professional references – one academic and one clinical

Tuition costs $317.18 per credit hour. Additional costs not covered include books, supplies, uniforms, background check, and health requirements.

  • Website: http://www.wiu.edu/
  • Address: Currens Hall 510, 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455 USA
  • Phone: (309) 298-2571
  • Fax: (309) 298-3190
  • Email: nursing@wiu.edu

Illinois College Online

Illinois College Online supports registered nurses in the goal to enter a new role in the field through the online RN to BSN program. The CCNE accredited program seeks to educate nurses to meet evolving health care needs. The program is designed for adult learners who possess a current and active unencumbered RN license issued in the United States, current registered nurses seeking to advance their education and careers, and working adults who want to earn their four-year degree in a flexible format. The content is delivered fully online. Classes are asynchronous and can be taken whenever and wherever it is convenient. There are no clinical rotations in the programs, but students will have opportunities to engage in projects to improve patient care. Those who reside near the local campus can take advantage of the school’s partnerships with Passavant Area Hospital and Memorial Medical Center. Graduates will have a deeper understanding of professionalism, leadership, service, and respect and care for diverse populations.

Program Outline

Semester credits: 120 including transferred courses
Duration: 12 to 18 months
Method of instruction: Online

Course titles:

General education requirements – Comp I, Comp II or Writing Intensive, Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, Microbiology, Statistics, Humanities Elective, Human Anatomy and Physiology I, Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Core courses – Professionalism and Interprofessional Communication, Serving 21st Century Populations, Bioethics, Concepts of Professional Nursing and Healthcare Policy, Advanced Health Assessment, Pathophysiology in Disease Management & Health Promotion, Ethical Leadership and Management in Nursing, Community and Population Health Nursing, Nursing Research & Statistical Analysis

Admission criteria:

  • Must have a current and active unencumbered registered nurse license issued in the US
  • Must have earned a 2.5 CGPA in the associate degree or diploma program
  • Submit a completed application online
  • Provide official transcripts of all college work completed and/or that has led to receiving a license as an RN

Tuition and fees cost $13,650 for students completing 36 credit hours. Other costs must be covered by the student.

  • Website: https://online.ic.edu/
  • Address: 1101 West College Avenue, Jacksonville, Illinois 62650
  • Phone: 866-822-5205

Crystal is a certified Registered Nurse (RN) with a passion for writing about nursing education. Through her articles, Crystal shares insights and tips to help fellow nurses enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. With a focus on practical advice and relevant topics, Crystal's writing is a valuable resource for nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers.