Considering nursing colleges in Illinois

I'm interested in pursuing a career in nursing and exploring colleges in Illinois. Does anyone have recommendations for nursing programs that are well-regarded in the state? Any personal experiences or advice would be helpful too!

Sure, there are several nursing programs in Illinois that have a strong reputation.

One of the most notable is the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing, ranked among the top nursing programs in the country. UIC offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and has a high NCLEX pass rate, which is the certification exam for nurses. The college's research contributions and active Clinical Simulation Learning Lab can provide excellent learning opportunities.

Another school to consider is Loyola University Chicago. It provides a BSN as well as a direct-entry Master's program for students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. They have strong links with hospitals and clinics in the area for clinical placements.

Rush University is another option. It's a little unique because it's a graduate-only institution. However, if you're coming in with a bachelor's degree in another field, their Generalist Entry Master’s (GEM) program could be a good match.

Lastly, there's Illinois State University's Mennonite College of Nursing. This college has a traditional 4-year BSN, an accelerated second-degree BSN and also an RN to BSN option.

Though a campus visit would help to get a feel of the schools and gauge which one is likely to be a better fit, be sure to look into each school's curriculum, class sizes, NCLEX pass rates, and opportunities for hands-on experience. Try to speak with current students or alumni if you can to get their perspective. It’s also helpful to take into account each school's scholarships and financial aid options. Good luck with your college search!