Rush University College of Nursing
Chicago, IL
Quick Facts
1972
Founded
500+
Enrollment
24%
Acceptance Rate
95%
NCLEX Pass Rate
About Rush University College of Nursing
Rush University College of Nursing is a unique institution where the university and hospital operate as one integrated academic medical center. Located in Chicago's Illinois Medical District, Rush students train at Rush University Medical Center from day one, gaining clinical experience in a nationally ranked hospital without leaving campus. This integration means that nursing faculty are practicing clinicians, and students benefit from a seamless connection between classroom learning and clinical application.
The college emphasizes interprofessional education, bringing nursing students together with medical, pharmacy, and health sciences students for collaborative learning. Rush's research focuses on community health, health equity in urban settings, chronic disease management, and patient safety. The school's location on Chicago's West Side places students at the intersection of advanced medicine and community health, providing a well-rounded clinical education that few programs can match.
Degree Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A pre-licensure program with early and extensive clinical immersion at Rush University Medical Center. Students begin clinical rotations in their first semester, gaining hands-on experience from the start.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Advanced practice programs with specializations in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Nurse Anesthesia, and Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A practice-focused doctoral program for advanced practice nurses seeking leadership in clinical practice, health systems, and nursing education. Designed for working professionals with flexible scheduling.
Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Rush University College of Nursing holds full CCNE accreditation for its BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, reflecting the high standards of this health sciences university integrated within a major medical center.
Campus & Online Options
Rush University College of Nursing is fully integrated with Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. BSN and MSN programs are on-campus with all clinical training conducted within Rush and its partner facilities. The DNP program includes hybrid elements with online coursework and on-campus immersion sessions.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition
Undergraduate tuition at Rush University is approximately $38,000 per year. Graduate program tuition varies by specialty, with MSN programs ranging from $1,100 to $1,400 per credit hour. Rush's integrated clinical model means students incur fewer costs for separate clinical placement.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Rush offers institutional scholarships, need-based grants, federal financial aid, and nursing-specific awards. The college administers endowed scholarships and connects students with external funding including the Nurse Corps Scholarship, Illinois nursing workforce programs, and clinical partnership tuition support.
Admissions Overview
Admission to Rush College of Nursing is competitive. The BSN program emphasizes early clinical readiness, and applicants are evaluated on academic achievement, healthcare experience, and commitment to the profession. Graduate programs consider clinical experience, academic record, and alignment with Rush's interprofessional mission.
Application Deadline
January 15 for fall admission
Requirements
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses
- Completed prerequisites in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and statistics
- Personal statement on nursing career goals
- Two letters of recommendation
- Healthcare-related experience strongly recommended
- Interview for final candidates
Student Life
Rush's campus is in the heart of Chicago's Illinois Medical District, surrounded by healthcare institutions. Students enjoy easy access to Chicago's cultural attractions, diverse neighborhoods, public transit, and professional networking. The university offers student organizations, wellness programs, interprofessional events, and a close-knit community within the larger city.
Great for Future Travel Nurses
Rush University College of Nursing graduates are exceptionally well prepared for travel nursing because of their immersive clinical training within a major academic medical center. Rush's integrated model means students spend more hours in direct patient care than students at many other programs, building the bedside confidence and clinical judgment that travel nurses need from day one of a new assignment. Chicago's diverse patient population also prepares graduates for the variety of communities they will encounter as travel nurses. While Illinois is not currently an NLC state, Rush's strong reputation in the Midwest and beyond makes its graduates highly competitive for travel positions anywhere in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Travel Nursing Career?
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