Chicago’s world-class hospitals, research centers, and pharma companies are fueled by a steady stream of talented grads from top colleges and universities like Northwestern, UIC, Illinois Tech, Rush, Truman, and Malcolm X. As the population ages, there will be a growing need for biomedical and healthcare solutions, and these Scholars who Fuel The Skyline are driving innovation in research, healthcare, biotech, and more.
A February 2024 article in Crain’s Chicago Business quotes an estimated shortage of 15,000 registered nurses by 2025.
America’s Urban Campus (AUC) is diligently working to be part of the solution. Half of the member institutions have nursing degree programs at various accessibility levels, from certificate programs to doctorate degrees. In some instances, those without nursing programs have pre-nursing coursework and advising that prepares students for programs within the city.
Moreover, Chicago’s colleges and universities are making significant strides in increasing access to nursing education citywide, a crucial response to the impending nurse shortage. For instance, DePaul University successfully relaunched its Bachelor of Nursing Program in the fall of 2022. National Louis University also stepped up by launching a new nursing school in the 2023-2024 academic year. City Colleges and the University of Chicago announced a partnership to construct a new nursing school and lab in Washington Park. RUSH University, not to be outdone, introduced scholarships for nurse practitioner students interested in primary care and anesthetists. These initiatives are not just promising, but they are also actively addressing the nurse shortage, instilling hope in the future of health care in Chicago.
Chicago’s institutions are not just addressing the nurse shortage, but also leading the way in fostering a diverse nursing workforce. For example, Loyola’s Arrupe College is dedicated to supporting first-generation students with a two-year program that ensures affordability while providing comprehensive care for the whole person—intellectually, morally, and spiritually. RUSH University actively works to increase male participation with initiatives like Men in Nursing, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and diversity. These programs are breaking barriers and improving health care, making every individual feel valued and considered in the health care sector.