2024 Best Colleges for Nursing in the Chicago Area

• Hammond, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,514 reviews

Sophomore: Even though I am currently a sophomore transitioning into a junior student at Purdue University Northwest this upcoming school year, I can already confidently say that my time at Purdue University Northwest has been one of the most delightful educational experiences I've ever had since elementary school. The environment created by both the general student body AND the professors allowed me to easily adapt and, therefore, get along with everybody, leading to a very digestible, excellent learning experience as a result! In addition, help and aide is just around the corner whenever I have any questions, concerns, and/or comments. Purdue University Northwest is truly an excellent choice for anyone looking for secondary education in the state of Indiana, especially in the Lake County!... Read 1,514 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $8,472

• SAT range 990-1190

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,089 reviews

Freshman: I really love how valued as a student I feel here. The esteemed faculty and other students continue to make me feel at home and reaffirm my choice to enroll here at Loyola. The one-on-one instruction that is provided here is unlike any other. Additionally, the opportunities offered are endless! The straight connection to the city of Chicago is immensely helpful for not only internships but the overall college experience. Loyola provides its students with the facilities to travel within the city safely and passes for the train. Loyola's emphasis on diversity inclusion is another feature that I value greatly and makes me proud to be a part of this establishment.... Read 3,089 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $29,371

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Joliet, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  337 reviews

Freshman: The University of St. Francis campus provides a vibrant and supportive environment for learning and personal growth. The university offers modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces, to support student's academic and extracurricular pursuits.... Read 337 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $16,949

• SAT range 920-1170

• Valparaiso, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,134 reviews

Junior: Valparaiso University is a small school in Valparaiso, Indiana who's boasts are its rich history with the Lutheran church, its nationally ranked college of engineering, college of nursing, and meteorology program. When it comes to academics, Valpo has tried its best to support me in both my successes and struggles. While the structural portion of the civil engineering courses seems to be subpar currently, all other classes have been advantageous for my degree. The College of engineering has helpful professors and helping hands offered by other students because of its small size. Socially, Valpo may be a little more difficult to navigate because there is a low student population. But, Valpo does try to offer everything it can to suit your wants and needs. As a christian, I was struggling to find a group. But I found the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a worship service called Celebrate! in which I now participate weekly in both. Valpo has served me well.... Read 1,134 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $21,997

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Elmhurst, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,074 reviews

Sophomore: Elmhurst University is the best in state college I could've chose! My experience at the university is/was absolutely amazing. The small student body provided me more chances to form close bonds with instructors and fellow students, resulting in a more tailored and interesting learning environment. With a plethora of extracurricular activities, groups, and events to participate in, this sense of community goes beyond the classroom and guarantees you enjoy the "college experience" that I truly do like. The school offers lots of options for research projects, study abroad programs, and internships, so you can broaden your horizons and get experience while pursuing your degree. The campus is a great place to live, learn, and develop because it is lovely and well-equipped with amenities. However, I feel as if they could expand its scholarship and financial assistance programs. It could enable Elmhurst University to serve a wider student body at a lower cost of education.... Read 1,074 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,018

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,516 reviews

Senior: University of Illinois Chicago is very diverse, which allows me to know people with different culture and background. The University is very open to hear students opinions and suggestions to changes that we believe are needed to better the school for everyone. Furthermore, the university takes great care of students overall mental health, thus multiple resources are available for students who needs help. One issue regarding the university is the doors on certain building are quiet heavy, hence student struggle to open them especially those with disability. I believe changing them will make things a lot easier for every students and including professors and adminstrators.... Read 3,516 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  709 reviews

Senior: North Park is incredibly gifted at preparing students for practical knowledge needed in healthcare, and stem-related jobs. The small class structure allows for students to develop a plan with faculty for their future, and brings more opportunities such as research to more of the student body than many larger schools where it is more competitive for those positions. Overall, a wonderful experience at NPU, and would recommend the school for someone who cares solely about developing academically, and having a close-knit student body.... Read 709 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $20,260

• SAT range 890-1140

• Aurora, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  838 reviews

Freshman: My experience with Aurora University has been great. I'm earning my bachelor's degree in psychology online at Aurora University. Their staff is very supportive and helpful with questions you may have, financial aid, your courses, and many other things. My counselors are very friendly, the staff at their bookstore is friendly, and overall their staff is amiable and I haven't had an issue with anyone. I can't wait to continue my 4-year journey with this university!... Read 838 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,410

• SAT range 960-1130

• Romeoville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  944 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Lewis University so far has been truly amazing. I found the University to be very welcoming, safe, and inclusive. Lewis University truly abide by its La Sallian mission and truly support student all student and makes available all the resources needed for success. Even though overall I would consider Lewis University amazing, some things that I would like to see change are more university-funded activities for students to engage in and to make better use of certain open green spaces.... Read 944 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $18,312

• SAT range 1050-1240

• Palos Heights, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  313 reviews

Sophomore: I love my college because of the friendships and the professor relationships I have made- the community here is absolutely incredible! That being said, because we are a smaller school, we lack in some areas, like a nicer dining hall or nicer dorm buildings. I also think communication between the departments could be significantly better. It's often an issue with the financial aid department, but they send me to student life or to the registrar. But once I talk to them, they send me back to financial aid. Overall, I am glad to be here, but there are some things I wish could be improved.... Read 313 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $14,700

• SAT range 950-1220

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  964 reviews

Sophomore: My first year at Saint Xavier University couldn't have been better! I met so many wonderful people. I loved my first year there because going to a smaller sized school, you get to connect with everyone. I'm very close to a lot of my peers and professors for that reason. I'm also very involved on campus, so I met new people that way as well. There are so many clubs, activities, athletics, and resources at Saint Xavier University that helped guide me. I've always been indecisive about my future, but after joining many clubs I've found my interests. All in all, I am super happy with my decision of accepting my offer to SXU and can't wait for my upcoming years!... Read 964 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $13,419

• SAT range 950-1120

• Lisle, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  482 reviews

Junior: I am an incoming student athlete coming from Mesa Community College. Where I previously participated on the NJCAA Softball Team at Mesa Community College. During the transfer process to, Benedictine University in Mesa, Arizona, I have felt at home when it came to making the decision to commit to BenU. The staff and Professors were very warm and welcoming upon my very first arrival. And I more than excited to participate in the many programs that Benedictine University has to offer not only as an athlete but as a student interesting in opening her own business as well.... Read 482 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $24,746

• SAT range 1050-1280

• River Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  745 reviews

Senior: I like that the professors engage the whole class to participate and make sure the students aren't awkward and not talking to each other. I previously went to UIC and when we did group work we would not talk to each other and the professors would not do anything. At Dominican University they allow you to grow and expand your wings! What I would like to see change is allowing scholarships for European immigrant families, I come from a European family and it is a struggle to afford such expensive tuition. Especially when you are taking 22 credit hours and are 4 credit hours at an overload which is 5 thousand dollars extra and they give you no help. European families also struggle yet universities do not see that because many workers have told me that since I am White there is nothing they can do :(... Read 745 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $18,476

• SAT range 910-1160

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,005 reviews

Junior: But what can I say everything at Roosevelt University seems to be everything I've been looking for I was a prior student at Robert Morris University graduated with my associates and felt like I had everything figured out. After doing some soul searching and finding the experiences I needed in my life to continue with college I came across Roosevelt University and read everything about what they offer and what they stand for and I felt like it was the place to be. This may be the first review but I would write another one once I'm done with my classes and my degree. As for now I say go Roosevelt University!... Read 1,005 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $23,964

• SAT range 860-1120

• Oak Brook, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  130 reviews

Junior: I am currently attending Resurrection University as a nursing student. I am half- way done with the BSN program, and I am satisfied with the school. However, Resurrection University had recently changed their name called Oak Point University, and I am not sure why. The clinical experiences were great due to students are able to get hands-on experience with the guidance of the preceptors. The didactic courses are exam heavy, and it is very fast pace due to being an accelerated BSN program. Exams are mostly every two weeks. In addition, I think the school should have some consistency with the BSN program. For example, in the first semester, there are not any retakes for the ATI proctored exam; however, on the second semester, there were changes made and the students could take the ATI proctored exam twice. Overall, Oak Point University is a great school, the university pushes students to work hard, and prepare students to become excellent future nurses.... Read 130 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,667 reviews

Sophomore: Getting registered can be one of the most frustrating and stressful parts of returning to school. As a non-traditional student, I have had experiences at other schools that made me weary of returning. DePaul’s registration and acceptance process was a breeze! Every person that I have encountered at DePaul University has been extremely helpful and supportive. Attending DePaul University has been the best college experience that I have ever had. The staff are knowledgeable and are genuinely interested in helping the student achieve their goals. Overall my experience has been no less than awesome!... Read 3,667 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Glen Ellyn, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,690 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, the college is great! I was terrified to go to college but I've been fortunate to have good professors and a welcoming environment that made the transition easier! I truly wish they would make it a 4-year school considering its size and creditability. The only complaint I would have is with the cashier and financial aid offices, as they are not very helpful and tend to make you run around in circles to get any questions answered.... Read 1,690 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,440

• SAT range —

• Palatine, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,021 reviews

Sophomore: Being a part of the Harper College community was a memorable experience. Harper has so many ways to stay involved in school and within your community. They provide so many financial opportunities for students who are in need. Personally, Harper has helped me a lot with school and has allowed me thrive academically. The professors at Harper are also very friendly and understanding. If i could stay at Harper longer, I definitely would!... Read 1,021 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,112

• SAT range —

• Palos Hills, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  925 reviews

Freshman: For starters; the Palos Hills Campus is beautiful; with impeccable landscaping and scenic views…It’s better than your average 2 yr college. This location has a lot to offer in regards to student life and the staff seemed professional and friendly for the most part! I got a late start in the registration process but I was able to navigate fairly easily to get started on time for the fall semester. The college is diverse when it comes to the student enrollment, and as a minority student, I didn’t feel any bias concerning race etc. The staff especially in the Liberal Arts Department, which is my field of study…was very kind, and helpful. In regards to the things I didn’t like?…I wish they had dorm rooms so I could live on campus Lol! But the staff in the bookstore seemed a bit rude and disorganized! There were only two lines open and our cashier left her station leaving us hang out in line as other students in the other line were served before us. Overall, I would recommend. 2 thumbs up.... Read 925 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $1,831

• SAT range —

• Grayslake, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,059 reviews

Sophomore: A lot of great Professors and resources, but the college success seminar that's mandatory is not very helpful, and the advisors are overworked. Most of the students here are kind and the Grayslake Campus is pretty nice. They got new chairs this past year and they're great! There are a lot of places that could be added onto the tour that they do, because I remember going on one and I didn't know that they had study rooms and music practice rooms until my 4th semester here.... Read 1,059 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,486

• SAT range —

• Joliet, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  979 reviews

Sophomore: I had a great experience attending Joliet Junior College to complete my associates degree! The College provided me with amazing resources and professors who truly care about their students. Joliet Junior College is an affordable school filled with many friendly people and interesting classes. I would love to have had some more advising from the counselors when it came down to planning my classes and transferring for my bachelors but overall loved attending here.... Read 979 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,304

• SAT range —

• Addison, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  819 reviews

Alum: I graduated from Chamberlain University in 2014 with my nursing degree. My classes were difficult, but they prepared me to have the necessary knowledge and skills in my nursing career. My professors were all helpful and supportive. The clinical sites were mostly positive experiences located in major local hospitals. My only negative experience was being placed in a skilled nursing facility for my Collaborative clinical since I was interested in acute nursing care, but I made the most of my experience and am thankful for the educators that helped me along the way.... Read 819 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $22,185

• SAT range —

• Elgin, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  726 reviews

Alum: Professors pour into you and care about your success, which is very encouraging! Also, many opportunities this College provides for career paths, it is remarkable. I made great connections with fellow students and bonds with professors that I will cherish for many years and I strive for excellence.... Read 726 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,140

• SAT range —

• River Grove, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  550 reviews

Sophomore: I like the programs that they offer to students! I also like the resources that they have in place for their students. I can easily access the staff if I need help with anything online, and they get back to their students in a timely manner. When COVID-19 happened, they had so many resources in place to help students with financial hardships and COVID-19 testing on site. Anytime I have ever needed help with registering for a class, ordering a college transcript, or dealing with financial aid matters, the staff was always helpful! I would definitely recommend this college. It is clean and the instructors are great! I definitely feel that I have learned a lot of valuable information and skills. I feel confident in my ability to excel in my career field. I also feel that I can apply the knowledge and skills that I gained, in my current job title and in real life situations! I feel that Triton has helped me grow and develop in many ways, and I will always be grateful for my experience.... Read 550 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,017

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  353 reviews

Junior: I’m a first generation, non traditional student. I decided to pursue a nursing career after I became a mother. From the beginning I have always felt so supported by advisors and professors. When my transplant failed I ended up back on dialysis and I was still in school part time and some semesters not at all. That didn’t stop advisors from reaching out nor did it stop professors from getting tested to give me an actual kidney. No one was a match but it felt surreal to have that kind of support. I have since returned and will begin my second year of nursing this fall. I’m really happy I chose MXC!... Read 353 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,199

• SAT range —