Best Nursing Schools in Indiana

Best RN Programs in Indiana

Indiana Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

If you haven’t worked in the nursing field before and have never been licensed as an RN, you’ll need to start with an entry-level nursing degree — either an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here are the differences between them.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

The main difference between ADN and RN diplomas is that one is a degree program, and the other is simply a training program. Additionally, ADN programs are typically only found at universities, while nursing diplomas can also be found at hospitals and other medical establishments. The timeline to graduation can sometimes be a little shorter with nursing diplomas, however, both nursing diplomas and ADNs can be completed in around 2 years. If you already have some nursing experience as an LPN, you can also take advantage of an LPN to RN bridge program which offers both ADNs and BSNs, depending on the program.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Indiana include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
• Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Indiana.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

It’s well-known that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a good option for nurses who want to invest in more time into their education and they’re often popular amongst students who have plans to eventually get a graduate degree. However, it’s important to note that a traditional BSN will take about 4 years to complete the program. That being said if you already have an RN license (and an ADN), you can get your BSN in as little as 2 years with an RN to BSN program. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing, you can also take advantage of Accelerated BSN programs which allow you to get your BSN in just a year or two.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Indiana typically include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

RN to BSN

Indiana RN to BSN programs are a great option for nurses who are already nurses and working in the field. This program works with the student’s existing education and experience and shortens the time to graduation by as much as two years.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you already have a bachelor’s degree and you want to make the switch to a nursing career from your current career, you can do so in only about a year’s time through an Indiana ABSN program.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Lastly, if you’re hoping to eventually practice independently as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you’ll need to graduate from either a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs range between 2 and 6 years following a bachelor’s degree program.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Indiana:

• Indiana Nurse Practitioner Programs
• Indiana MSN Program
• Indiana RN to MSN Programs
• Indiana Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• Indiana DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in Indiana

The final step in the process of becoming a nurse in Indiana is getting your RN license. To get your license in this state, you’ll need to send a completed application to the Indiana Board of Nursing and pay the requested fee. Following your acceptance, you’ll need to maintain your licensure by signing up for the required continuing education courses.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Indiana

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the Indiana Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

As you begin to research nursing programs in Indiana, you’ll likely see the word “accredited” come up in your search. RN program accreditation is a formal review process that ensures a nursing school or program meets established quality standards. In the United States, two primary organizations accredit nursing programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). In Iowa, nursing programs commonly seek accreditation from one or both of these agencies to demonstrate that their education standards meet national benchmarks and thus, graduation from them allows you to become licensed. However, keep in mind that the reverse is also true — if your nursing program is not accredited, you will not be able to seek licensure.

Continued List of All RN Programs in Indiana

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