Top 10 Best MSN Programs in Chicago

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and nurses are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees like the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to stay at the forefront. As a nurse in Chicago, IL, you have a wide range of MSN programs to choose from to advance your career and take on leadership roles.

To help you make an informed decision, we have researched and compiled a list of the top 10 best MSN programs in Chicago. Pursuing an MSN degree can open up new career opportunities in areas such as administration, education, and advanced clinical practice. Explore specialties offered, accreditation status, clinical experiences, and more to find the right program for you.

Methodology

To create our list of the top 10 best MSN programs in Chicago, IL, we used a variety of criteria to evaluate each program. These criteria include program reputation, accreditation status, program curriculum, clinical experience opportunities, faculty quality, affordability, and career support services. We consulted various authoritative sources, including U.S. News & World Report, the National League for Nursing, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, to gather data and assess each program based on our criteria.

Top 10 MSN Programs in Chicago, IL

1. Rush University: Rush University's MSN program is ranked first in the state of Illinois and is ranked 15th nationally by U.S. News & World Report. The program offers a wide range of specialties, including acute care, adult-gerontology, pediatric, and psychiatric-mental health nursing. Rush University's MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.
2. Loyola University Chicago: Loyola University Chicago's MSN program is ranked 46th nationally by U.S. News & World Report and is accredited by CCNE. The program offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, pediatrics, and women's health nursing. Loyola's MSN program is known for its emphasis on social justice and the Jesuit values of service and excellence.
3. University of Illinois at Chicago: The University of Illinois at Chicago's MSN program is ranked 56th nationally by U.S. News & World Report and is accredited by CCNE. The program offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, psychiatric-mental health, and women's health nursing. The program is known for its commitment to innovation and its diverse student body.
4. DePaul University: DePaul University's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, and pediatric nursing. The program emphasizes clinical practice and leadership development and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.
5. Chamberlain University: Chamberlain University's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, pediatric, and psychiatric-mental health nursing. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences and offers flexible online coursework options.
6. Governors State University: Governors State University's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, and psychiatric-mental health nursing. The program emphasizes cultural competence and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.
7. North Park University: North Park University's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, and psychiatric-mental health nursing. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to nursing care and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.
8. Resurrection University: Resurrection University's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, pediatric, and psychiatric-mental health nursing. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.
9. Saint Xavier University: Saint Xavier University's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, and nurse educator. The program emphasizes leadership development and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.
10. Trinity Christian College: Trinity Christian College's MSN program is accredited by CCNE and offers a variety of specialties, including adult-gerontology, family, and pediatric nursing. The program emphasizes spiritual care and offers clinical experiences at top healthcare institutions in the Chicago area.

Comparison of Top 3 Programs

When comparing the top 3 MSN programs in Chicago, IL, Rush University stands out for its national reputation and wide range of specialty options. Loyola University Chicago is known for its emphasis on social justice and Jesuit values, while the University of Illinois at Chicago is known for its commitment to innovation and diversity.

Other MSN Programs Worth Considering

Other MSN programs in Chicago that did not make it to our top 10 list but are still worth considering include Saint Anthony College of Nursing, Olivet Nazarene University, and Lewis University.

Conclusion

Pursuing an MSN degree can be a smart career move for nurses who want to take on leadership roles in the healthcare industry. Our list of the top 10 best MSN programs in Chicago, can help you make an informed decision about which program is right for you. Consider factors such as program reputation, accreditation status, curriculum, clinical experiences, faculty quality, affordability, and career support services when making your decision. Remember that ultimately, the best MSN program for you will depend on your individual needs, goals, and preferences.