Best MSN Programs in Illinois (2026)
Illinois has 31 MSN programs across 22 cities. 6 programs report NCLEX pass rates, averaging 83%.
31
MSN programs
22
Cities
83%
Avg NCLEX rate
6
With NCLEX data
Top MSN Programs in Illinois by NCLEX Pass Rate
Ranked by most recent NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate.
Most Affordable MSN Programs in Illinois
Sorted by lowest available tuition figure.
Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Peoria, IL
$9,086
Northern Illinois University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Dekalb, IL
$9,090
McKendree University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Lebanon, IL
$9,450
Illinois State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Normal, IL
$10,009 in / $12,646 out
Governors State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • University Park, IL
$10,072
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Edwardsville, IL
$10,102
Chicago State University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Chicago, IL
$10,294 in / $16,162 out
Olivet Nazarene University
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Bourbonnais, IL
$10,957
University of St Francis
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Joliet, IL
$14,757
Chamberlain University-Illinois
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. • Addison, IL
$14,900
Frequently Asked Questions
How many MSN programs are in Illinois?
There are 31 MSN programs in Illinois across 22 cities.
What is the average NCLEX pass rate for MSN programs in Illinois?
Based on 6 programs with reported data, the average NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate for MSN programs in Illinois is 83%. The highest rate is 93% at Bradley University.
What is the cheapest MSN program in Illinois?
The most affordable option is Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing at $9,086.
Other Nursing Program Types in Illinois
Compare MSN side-by-side with other paths in Illinois.
ADN in Illinois
Associate Degree in Nursing — the fastest path to becoming an RN.
BSN in Illinois
Bachelor of Science in Nursing — a 4-year degree opening more career options.
ABSN in Illinois
Accelerated BSN — for students who already hold a bachelor's degree.
RN to BSN in Illinois
Bridge program for registered nurses seeking a bachelor's degree.
DNP in Illinois
Doctor of Nursing Practice — the highest clinical nursing degree.
MSN Programs in Nearby States
Considering programs across state lines? Compare MSN options in neighboring states.
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