Best Nursing Schools in Indiana: Online & Campus
Explore programs from the best nursing schools in Indiana and find other key information on becoming an RN or advanced nurse in 2025.
Good nurses make all the difference in healthcare. Not only do they provide some of the most valuable services, but patient care would be virtually impossible without them. If you want to have this type of impact and live in Indiana, there are plenty of accredited nursing schools that can give you the training you need. This is true whether you’re just starting out in your RN career or are currently licensed and looking to move up the nursing ladder.
This guide offers you a look at the best nursing schools Indiana has to offer and will help you find the online or campus program that best meets your education and career goals. You’ll also learn about nursing salaries across the state and financial aid opportunities that can help lower the cost of nursing school. Keep reading to discover which schools made it onto our list.
Ranking of the Top Online Nursing Programs in Indiana
Nursing students in Indiana have a variety of degree programs offered in hybrid or fully online formats, from ADN and BSN programs to MSN and DNP degrees. These convenient programs offer the same level and quality of instruction as in-person programs but have the flexibility of distance learning. Most online programs require students to complete hands-on clinical training at an approved facility – the exception being bridge programs and some advanced nursing programs where students are already fully licensed.
To help Indiana students find the right online nursing programs, we analyzed dozens of colleges and universities across the state by looking for regional and programmatic accreditation, low tuition, school-based financial aid, and academic and career services.
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, Indiana
Public
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, Indiana
Private
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, Indiana
Public
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana
Public
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
Public
Indiana University-East
Richmond, Indiana
Public
Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Public
Indiana University-Southeast
New Albany, Indiana
Public
Indiana University-Northwest
Gary, Indiana
Public
Indiana University-South Bend
South Bend, Indiana
Public
University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Private
Marian University
Indianapolis, Indiana
Private
Bethel University
Mishawaka, Indiana
Private
Purdue University Northwest
Hammond, Indiana
Public
Indiana University-Kokomo
Kokomo, Indiana
Public
University of Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana
Private
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, Indiana
Private
University of Evansville
Evansville, Indiana
Private
Goshen College
Goshen, Indiana
Private
Vincennes University
Vincennes, Indiana
Public
Types of Nursing Programs Offered in Indiana
Whether you’re just starting and have no nursing experience, looking to switch to nursing from another field, or want to bolster your credentials with a masters or doctorate, there’s a nursing program in Indiana for you. Here’s are some of the most common options currently available.
Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs in Indiana
ADN Programs
ADN programs are associate degrees in nursing and are designed for individuals with no prior nursing experience. They are typically two-year programs that provide the essential skills and experience for pursuing work as an RN. Upon completion of the NCLEX-RN exam, graduates work in clinics, home health, nursing homes, and outpatient facilities.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with this Program
Traditional BSN Programs
Traditional bachelor’s nursing programs (BSNs) are for students who are already registered nurses (RNs). While you don’t need a BSN to work as an RN, a bachelor’s degree may allow you to take on more responsibility and earn a higher wage. BSNs usually take four years to complete.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with this Program
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN degrees are for students who do not have RN licenses but who want to earn bachelor’s degrees in nursing. These programs are typically structured for students who already have bachelor’s degrees in another area. Students can often finish accelerated BSNs in one year (three consecutive semesters).
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with this Program
Nursing Bridge Programs in Indiana for Current Nurses
LVN to RN and LVN to BSN Programs
Designed for students who have licensed vocational nurse (LVN) credentials, LVN-to-RN and LVN-to-BSN programs are for individuals who want to become RNs. These online and in-person programs give students the clinical skills and hands-on knowledge needed to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to BSN Programs
For students who already possess an associate degree in nursing, the RN-to-BSN program, sometimes called a bridge program, helps students earn their bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Those who already have experience working as ADNs can typically complete these programs in as few as 12 months.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to MSN Programs
If you’re looking to move right through both the BSN and MSN degrees in one program, look for RN-to-MSN programs. These programs usually take three years to complete and are for RNs who already have diplomas or associate degrees in nursing. Your credentials must come from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited school, and you’ll need an unencumbered RN license in Indiana.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with this Program
Advanced Nursing Programs in Indiana
MSN Programs
MSN degree-seekers can choose from standard MSNs and direct-entry MSNs. The standard path is for those who already possess BSNs. Direct-entry programs are for those with bachelor’s degrees in another area. These programs typically offer a concentration area like nursing education or family nurse practitioner.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with This Program
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Doctoral nursing programs are for individuals who already possess MSNs. DNP and PhD doctoral programs lead toward different types of careers. A DNP prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare settings and is considered a nursing practice degree. The PhD in nursing is a research degree that helps students advance knowledge and theories in the field to inform nursing practice.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with This Program
Post-Graduate Certificates
Going a step beyond DNPs and PhDs, graduate certificates help develop specialized knowledge in a particular area of the field. Popular post-graduate certificates include adult gerontology, family nurse practitioner, healthcare informatics, nurse midwifery, and psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Examples of Indiana Nursing Schools with This Program
Financial Aid Opportunities for Nursing Students in Indiana
In addition to internal scholarships from individual schools, nursing students in Indiana can take advantage of scholarships and grants offered through the Indiana Healthcare Foundation (IHC). Indiana residents with a high school diploma or GED certificate are eligible to apply. Students accepted into an Indiana nursing program with an LPN or RN license and a 2.7 or higher GPA may also apply for financial aid. Applicants for IHC aid must submit three letters of recommendation and school transcripts for consideration. For more information on aid for nursing students, check out our nursing scholarship guide, guide to graduating from nursing school debt-free, and financial aid guide. With these tools, you can begin your search for financial aid and locate other ways to offset the costs of nursing school.
How to Become an RN in Indiana: Education and Licensing Requirements
To become a registered nurse in Indiana, you’ll need to apply through the Indiana State Board of Nursing. This governmental agency enforces all state laws related to nursing education, practice, and licensure in the state. The following step-by-step guide details the requirement for becoming a first-time RN in Indiana.
Complete ADN or BSN Degree
The first step toward RN licensure is completing a state-approved nursing degree from an accredited institution. To become an RN, you’ll need to complete either an ADN or BSN program. Both include online or in-person coursework along with hands-on clinical experiences.
Apply for Licensure by Examination in Indiana
Submit an application for state licensure by examination through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA). The IPLA determines your eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The Indiana state application must include transcripts, a 2.5-3.5″ professional headshot with appropriate credentials attached, and a $50 application fee.
Submit NCLEX-RN Exam Application
Next, visit NCSBN to complete the NCLEX candidate bulletin. Note that the NCLEX-RN exam is a nationwide test, so a passing score is valid in Indiana and all other states in the U.S. Registration for the exam is also uniform among states, including the $200 registration fee.
Pass NCLEX-RN Exam
The NCLEX-RN exam is a computerized, pass-fail test comprising four main subject areas: safe and effective care environments; psychosocial integrity; health promotion and maintenance; and physiological integrity. You’ll receive anywhere from 74-145 questions, including 15 pre-test questions.
Keep Licensure Current
Indiana RN licenses expire on October 31st of odd-numbered years. Licenses that are expired for 18 months or less can be renewed online with a $100 fee. There are no continuing education requirements for RNs in Indiana as of December 2021.
Salary and Career Outlook for RNs in Indiana
In Indiana, registered nurses (RNs) have a promising career outlook, with 67,390 current jobs projected to grow to 71,020 by the next cycle, adding 3,630 new positions—a 5.4% increase. Each year, Indiana anticipates around 4,090 job openings for RNs, reflecting solid demand within the state. Salaries vary by region, with the median statewide income for RNs at $78,530. For those starting out, salaries begin around the 10th percentile, earning $61,710, while experienced nurses in the 90th percentile can make up to $103,710.
Regionally, earnings differ, with South Bend-Mishawaka RNs earning a median salary of $90,140 and Indianapolis RNs at $80,290. Locations like Elkhart-Goshen also offer higher earning potential, with top earners reaching $131,210. This salary and growth outlook makes Indiana a viable choice for nurses, offering good compensation and opportunities across both urban and rural settings.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | $61,710 | $78,530 | $103,710 |
| Bloomington, IN | $63,850 | $76,430 | $99,670 |
| Columbus, IN | $57,720 | $75,780 | $94,750 |
| Elkhart-Goshen, IN | $61,980 | $84,530 | $131,210 |
| Evansville, IN-KY | $57,190 | $78,190 | $99,700 |
| Fort Wayne, IN | $61,790 | $74,730 | $102,380 |
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN | $62,930 | $80,290 | $103,710 |
| Kokomo, IN | $62,930 | $81,600 | $104,570 |
| Lafayette-West Lafayette, IN | $59,670 | $71,190 | $96,550 |
| Michigan City-La Porte, IN | $59,000 | $76,440 | $98,470 |
| Muncie, IN | $60,700 | $78,450 | $96,750 |
| South Bend-Mishawaka, IN-MI | $63,900 | $90,140 | $131,340 |
| Terre Haute, IN | $58,920 | $69,210 | $84,920 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Indiana | 67,390 | 71,020 | 3,630 | 5.40% | 4,090 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
