Top Nursing Schools in Illinois?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior from Illinois looking to study nursing, and I want to stay in-state. Does anyone have any recommendations for the top nursing schools here? I'd love to hear about your experiences or any helpful resources to find reputable programs.

Hi! It's great that you're considering pursuing a nursing career in your home state of Illinois. There are several nursing programs in the state, but here are some of the top ones to look into:

1. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): The College of Nursing at UIC is highly regarded and offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. UIC's program focuses on integrating theory, research, and clinical practice. The campus has well-equipped facilities and clinical experiences at a variety of sites in the Chicago area.

2. Loyola University Chicago: Loyola offers a BSN program at the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. Their comprehensive curriculum incorporates robust clinical experiences, research opportunities, and simulations to prepare students for the nursing profession. Students have access to Loyola's Health Sciences Campus and several health care organizations for clinical placements.

3. Illinois State University (ISU): The Mennonite College of Nursing at ISU provides a BSN program with a strong reputation for producing high-quality, compassionate, and skilled nurses. The college emphasizes a commitment to innovation, diversity, and community engagement. Students gain experience in their modern simulation center and clinical sites throughout the area.

4. Northern Illinois University (NIU): NIU's School of Nursing offers a BSN program, with a focus on combining academic and practical learning. The curriculum is designed to develop student's skills in decision-making, communication, and critical thinking. They also offer extensive hands-on experience through their on-campus simulation labs and clinical sites.

5. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE): The School of Nursing at SIUE offers a traditional BSN program as well as an accelerated option for those who want to complete their degree quickly. The program prides itself on its small class sizes, experienced faculty, and its focus on hands-on clinical training.

These are just a few of the reputable nursing programs available in Illinois, and each has its own unique offerings. To get a better idea of which might be the best fit for you, consider factors such as location, campus size, academic support, and clinical opportunities. You may also want to utilize resources like CollegeVine, college websites, and conversations with current students or alumni to further inform your decision. Good luck with your nursing school search!