The School of Nursing is part of Saint Xavier University, founded in 1846 by the Sisters of Mercy, the first Mercy institution of higher learning in the United States. The nursing program has grown into one of the university's flagship academic units, offering BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP pathways. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is regionally recognized for preparing graduates for Chicago-area hospital and community health careers.
Nursing students learn on the Chicago campus in the Beverly/Mount Greenwood neighborhood and complete clinical rotations at partner hospitals and clinics across the Chicago metropolitan area. The Mercy mission shapes the culture, emphasizing service, social justice, and care for underserved populations. Small class sizes, simulation labs, and close faculty mentorship define the student experience, and many students are first-generation or commuters balancing work and study.
| Type | Private |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Founded | 1846 |
| Total students | 3,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 73% |
| Graduation rate | 62% |
| Average starting salary | $70,000 |
| In-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $38,000 |
| Room & board | $11,500 |
| Average financial aid | $28,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 99% |
| SAT range | 950-1150 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.4 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.