University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
Chicago, IL
Quick Facts
1951
Founded
1,200+
Enrollment
32%
Acceptance Rate
91%
NCLEX Pass Rate
About University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Nursing is one of the largest nursing schools in the country and a nationally recognized leader in health equity research. Located on UIC's urban campus in the heart of Chicago, the college provides students with clinical training across an extensive network of hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations, including the University of Illinois Hospital, a major safety-net hospital serving some of Chicago's most underserved communities.
UIC College of Nursing is known for its commitment to preparing a diverse nursing workforce that reflects the communities it serves. The college's research portfolio focuses on health disparities, community-based interventions, maternal-child health, violence prevention, and mental health. With regional campuses in Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield, and Urbana, UIC offers nursing education across Illinois, making it one of the most accessible public nursing programs in the Midwest.
Degree Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A four-year pre-licensure program with clinical rotations at the University of Illinois Hospital and community health sites across Chicago. Also available at UIC's regional campuses.
RN-to-BSN
An online completion program for registered nurses with an associate degree who want to earn their BSN while continuing to work.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Graduate programs with tracks in Adult-Gerontology NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Nurse-Midwifery, Occupational Health Nursing, and Administrative Studies.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A practice-focused doctoral program for advanced practice nurses seeking leadership in clinical practice and health systems. Available in online and hybrid formats.
Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing holds full CCNE accreditation for its BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, underscoring its role as one of the largest and most comprehensive public nursing programs in the Midwest.
Campus & Online Options
The BSN program is available at UIC's Chicago campus and regional campuses throughout Illinois. Clinical rotations take place at the University of Illinois Hospital and partner facilities. The RN-to-BSN program is fully online. Graduate programs offer hybrid and online options designed for working nurses.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition
Illinois resident undergraduate tuition and fees are approximately $15,000 per year. Out-of-state students pay approximately $28,000 per year. Graduate tuition ranges from $14,000 to $20,000 per year for Illinois residents.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
UIC offers institutional scholarships, need-based grants, federal financial aid, and nursing-specific awards. The College of Nursing administers several endowed scholarships. Illinois residents may qualify for state-funded MAP grants. External programs include the Nurse Corps Scholarship and Illinois nursing workforce development funds.
Admissions Overview
Admission to the BSN program at UIC is moderately competitive. Students apply to UIC and are admitted to the pre-nursing track, then apply to the upper-division nursing program. Holistic review considers GPA, prerequisite performance, and personal statements.
Application Deadline
January 15 for fall admission
Requirements
- Minimum 2.75 GPA in prerequisite courses
- Completion of prerequisite biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and statistics courses
- Personal statement on commitment to nursing
- Two letters of recommendation
- Healthcare experience recommended
- TEAS exam score (for some programs)
Student Life
UIC's urban campus in the Near West Side of Chicago offers easy access to the city's cultural attractions, public transit, diverse neighborhoods, and professional opportunities. Nursing students participate in the Student Nurses Association, community health outreach, research mentorships, and interprofessional education events. Chicago's healthcare industry provides extensive networking and career opportunities.
Great for Future Travel Nurses
UIC College of Nursing graduates are well prepared for travel nursing, particularly for assignments in urban safety-net hospitals and community health settings where cultural competency and adaptability are essential. Training at the University of Illinois Hospital, which serves a predominantly underserved population, builds the resilience and clinical versatility that travel nurses need. UIC's large alumni network across Illinois and the Midwest is also an asset for travel nurses seeking local knowledge and connections in new cities. The college's affordable tuition means graduates enter the workforce with less debt, allowing them to pursue travel nursing without the financial pressure that can limit career choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
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