Accredited Nursing Schools & RN Salaries in Illinois
There are currently 222 accredited nursing programs evaluated across Illinois. Choosing the right program requires analyzing key metrics such as institutional accreditation, hands-on clinical hours, total program tuition, and first-time NCLEX exam pass rates.
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.
Average RN Salary & Career Outlook in Illinois
For aspiring healthcare professionals researching what registered nurses make in Illinois, employment data indicates strong financial returns and high market demand. Licensed Registered Nurses (RNs) in Illinois earn an average annual salary of approximately $95,990, which translates to roughly $46.15 per hour.
Annual Mean Salary
$95,990
Based on official federal labor reporting.
Estimated Hourly Rate
$46.15
Calculated across standard full-time hours.
Licensed Programs
222 Schools
Active accredited tracks across the state.
Earnings can vary significantly depending on metropolitan versus rural placement, specialized certifications (such as ICU, ER, or Nurse Practitioner tracks), and your level of education (ADN vs. BSN). Graduating from an accredited program listed below ensures you meet all state board requirements to sit for the NCLEX and enter the workforce.
All Illinois Nursing Programs
Kishwaukee College
ABSNMalta, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Kaskaskia College
ABSNCentralia, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Kankakee, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Judson University
ABSNElgin, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
Joliet, IL • Accreditation: CCNE
University of Illinois Chicago
RN-to-BSNChicago, IL • Accreditation: ACEN
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.