Nursing Programs in South Bend, IN
South Bend, Indiana, stands as a nucleus of healthcare education, offering a myriad of nursing programs that cater to a diverse range of educational goals and professional ambitions. From aspiring nurses embarking on their journey to seasoned practitioners looking to advance their careers, the city provides an array of programs to meet various needs. Here, we explore the spectrum of nursing programs available in South Bend, categorized for clarity.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2026 Best Nursing Schools in South Bend
Bethel University
Mishawaka, IN - Private 4-year - betheluniversity.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bethel University in Indiana offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. This two-year program combines classroom learning with clinical experiences, including high-fidelity nursing simulation labs and a cadaver lab for anatomy and physiology. Accredited by ACEN, the program boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate for BSN and ADN graduates in 2023 and 2024. With a focus on holistic care and spiritual formation, Bethel nurses are well-prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students.
- 2-year program
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab included
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- ACEN accredited
- Clinical experiences
- Spiritual formation focus
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships for nurses
- Holistic care approach
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bethel University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for a rewarding career in one of the fastest-growing fields. This four-year, campus-based program combines classroom instruction with clinical experiences, starting as early as the sophomore year. Students gain hands-on experience in high-fidelity simulation labs and a cadaver lab, alongside spiritual formation. The program boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate for BSN and ADN graduates in 2023 and 2024. Bethel nurses are known for their holistic, faith-based care. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
- Four-year BSN program
- Starts clinicals sophomore year
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab available
- Faith-based holistic care
- Accredited by ACEN
- Financial aid options
- Scholarships available
- Campus-based program
Saint Mary's College
Notre Dame, IN - Private 4-year - saintmarys.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame, IN, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in nursing. This campus-based program emphasizes compassionate, relationship-centered care, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in various healthcare settings. With a state-of-the-art healthcare training facility, students gain hands-on experience in ultra-realistic clinical environments. The program boasts a high NCLEX-RN licensure exam pass rate and opportunities for study abroad, enhancing global perspectives. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in hospitals, community organizations, and advanced studies, making it a top choice for aspiring nurses.
- Campus-based BSN program
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- State-of-the-art training facility
- Study abroad opportunities
- Small clinical groups
- Liberal arts education
- Accredited by CCNE
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Compassionate care focus
- Prepares for diverse healthcare roles
Indiana University-South Bend
South Bend, IN - Public 4-Year - southbend.iu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University South Bend offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed for aspiring nurses. This campus-based program requires two years of prerequisite courses followed by two years of clinical nursing curriculum. Admission is competitive, with fall and spring intakes. Applicants need a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 and a science GPA of 2.70. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, leading to licensure as a Registered Nurse. With a focus on hands-on experience, students gain the skills needed for a successful nursing career.
- Campus-based program
- Two years prerequisites
- Two years clinical
- Fall and spring admission
- Minimum 2.50 GPA
- Minimum 2.70 science GPA
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Competitive admission
- Hands-on clinical experience
- 120 credit hours total
Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Indiana University-South Bend's RN-BSN program is designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. This online program offers flexibility for working professionals, focusing on critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication in nursing. It prepares graduates for diverse healthcare environments, emphasizing health, wellness, and patient care coordination. The curriculum aligns with professional nursing standards, ensuring graduates are ready for the challenges of modern healthcare. Admission requires an RN license, making it ideal for nurses seeking to enhance their qualifications and impact in the field.
- Online program flexibility.
- For registered nurses.
- Focuses on critical thinking.
- Cultural sensitivity training.
- Effective communication skills.
- Health and wellness emphasis.
- Patient care coordination.
- Prepares for diverse environments.
- Aligns with nursing standards.
- Requires RN license for admission.
Goshen College
Goshen, IN - Private 4-year - goshen.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Goshen College's Nursing Major stands out as Indiana's oldest bachelor’s degree in nursing program, renowned for its excellence and holistic approach to healthcare education. Ranked among the best in Indiana, this program emphasizes cultural diversity, compassionate care, and high-quality patient services. Graduates are highly sought after for their cross-cultural awareness and commitment to holistic care. The curriculum prepares students for various nursing careers, supported by clinical experiences at top healthcare facilities. With a strong focus on diversity and a rigorous academic framework, Goshen College equips future nurses with the skills to make a positive impact in communities worldwide.
- Oldest BSN program in Indiana.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Emphasis on cultural diversity.
- High graduate employment rate.
- Clinical experiences at top facilities.
- Compassionate, culturally sensitive care.
- Rigorous curriculum.
- Experienced faculty.
- Prepares for various nursing careers.
Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in South Bend, IN
To start out as an RN, students in South Bend have the option of entry-level programs including an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs are designed for those who don't already hold a nursing license.
LPN to RN Programs
Licensed practical nurses are already experienced in providing patients with basic care and assisting them with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. For LPNs who want to expand on these skills and become licensed as RNs, some schools offer LPN to RN bridge programs that provide an accelerated pathway to becoming a registered nurse. Ivy Tech Community College offers a dynamic LPN-to-ASN bridge program, facilitating Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in their transition to becoming Registered Nurses (RNs). This program recognizes the expertise LPNs bring and offers an accelerated path to RN licensure.
ADN Programs
The ADN program is the basic, entry-level route to becoming an RN. These programs take about two years to complete and are regularly offered at community and technical colleges in the city. Indiana University South Bend features an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) program designed to equip students with fundamental nursing knowledge and skills. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and begin their nursing careers.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
The 4-year baccalaureate nursing program has become more and more ubiquitous in recent years. With many employers requiring this type of nursing degree, some students choose to earn it from the very start. Saint Mary's College provides an Accelerated BSN program tailored for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. This program offers an expedited route to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and focuses on comprehensive nursing training, clinical proficiency, and leadership development.
Find out more about Indiana Accelerated BSN Programs
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in South Bend, IN
Those RNs who are licensed and have previously earned an ADN or nursing diploma can opt to further their careers with an RN to BSN or RN to MSN program. These bridge programs offer the benefits of earning a higher degree in a shortened time span, taking into account the nursing education the RN has already completed.
RN to BSN Programs
The RN to BSN pathway allows licensed RNs to earn a baccalaureate nursing degree. Many of these programs have the option to be completed online in order to accommodate working RNs. Indiana University South Bend offers a flexible RN-to-BSN program designed to accommodate the schedules of working Registered Nurses (RNs). This program acknowledges the experience of RNs and enhances their skills while earning a BSN degree.
Learn more about Indiana RN to BSN programs.
RN to MSN Programs
Nurses wanting a more advanced option may decide to pursue an RN to MSN program. These programs allow licensed RNs to earn a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs typically allow students to specialize in a niche area, such as pediatrics or women's health. Bethel University features an RN-to-MSN bridge program tailored for RNs aspiring to advanced practice roles. This program streamlines the transition from RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), preparing nurses for specialized positions such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Learn more about Indiana RN to MSN programs.
List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs
Mishawaka, IN
Bethel University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- Ranked #7 nationally
- 120 total credit hours
- $250 per credit hour
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- Accelerated 7-week classes
- 100% nursing student placement
- ACEN accredited program
South Bend, IN
Indiana University-South Bend
- RN to BSN - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN-BSN Consortium program
- 120 total credit hours required
- 53 credit hours general education
- 33 credit hours nursing courses
- 35 special credits for prior nursing
- Prepares for advanced nursing careers
- Flexible learning format
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in South Bend, IN
For nurses looking to enter advanced practice as nurse practitioners, South Bend schools have a number of options. From MSN degrees to post-graduate certificates to doctoral nursing programs, RNs have a variety of available pathways depending on their goals.
MSN Programs
The traditional graduate pathway can be found at most universities in the area. In around two years of study, students are well-equipped to work in a number of nurse practitioner (NP) specializations. The University of Notre Dame offers an MSN program with specializations, including Family Nurse Practitioner. This program equips nurses with advanced clinical and leadership skills, preparing them for specialized roles within the healthcare landscape.
Learn more about Indiana Nurse Practitioner Programs.
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificates are designed for RNs who have completed a master's program and don't want to complete an additional master's or DNP program to change specialties. These certificates take just one to two years to finish. Goshen College offers post-master's nursing certificates for experienced nurses seeking to further specialize their expertise. These certificates enhance professional skills and provide avenues to explore new facets of nursing practice.
Learn more about Indiana Post-Master's Certificate Programs.
DNP and Ph.D. Programs
The terminal degree options for nurses are the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.) degrees. While the DNP degree is mainly focused on clinical practice, the Ph.D. degree is geared toward academia and research. Purdue University Northwest offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program for nurses seeking the pinnacle of clinical mastery and leadership. DNP programs emphasize advanced practice skills and innovative healthcare approaches.
Learn more about Indiana DNP Programs.
List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in South Bend
Goshen, IN
Goshen College
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Campus-based program format.
- Classes meet Tuesday evenings.
- Three-year completion time.
- $765 per credit hour cost.
- $600 annual additional fee.
- 48 total credit hours.
- 672 minimum clinical hours.
Mishawaka, IN
Bethel University
- BSN to MSN - MSN in Nursing Education
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN Nurse Educator track
- 33-34 total credit hours
- 2-year completion time
- $510 per credit hour
- ACEN accredited program
- Prepare for CNE certification
- 186-hour teaching practicum
- Up to 6 transfer credits
- BSN to MSN - MSN
Concentration: Nurse Administrator - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Two-year completion time.
- 33-34 credit hours.
- $555 per credit hour.
- Nurse Administrator concentration.
- ACEN accredited program.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
Notre Dame, IN
Saint Mary's College
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and on-campus format
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Specialized acute care training
- Flexible learning options
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and campus program
- 780 clinical practice hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Optional geriatric neuropsychiatry focus
- Career growth potential
- Cutting-edge simulation labs
- Interdisciplinary healthcare approach
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Geriatric Neuropsychiatry - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/in-person program
- Geriatric neuropsychiatry concentration
- 780 clinical training hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Nationwide career opportunities
- Quarterly campus immersion
- Career services for life
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Primarily online DNP program
- 2-3 classes per term
- CCNE accredited program
- Two dynamic track options
- Social entrepreneurship emphasis
- Data analytics curriculum
- Flexible course scheduling
- Professional licensure preparation
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/campus program
- 780 clinical training hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Optional geriatric neuropsychiatry focus
- 38% job growth projection
- Campus lab simulation experiences
- Interdisciplinary healthcare approach
South Bend, IN
Indiana University-South Bend
- BSN to MSN - Nursing Administration
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Nursing Administration track offered.
- Over 80% online courses.
- Six semester completion time.
- 300 practicum hours required.
- BSN GPA 2.8 minimum.
- Current RN license needed.
- One year RN experience preferred.
- BSN to MSN - Nursing Education
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 75% online coursework
- 300 practicum hours
- Six semester completion
- Nursing faculty preparation
- BSN 2.8 GPA requirement
- Rolling admissions
- Fall/Spring start options
Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near South Bend, IN
Goshen, IN
Goshen College
- Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Oldest BSN program in Indiana.
- Ranked among Indiana's best.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Emphasis on cultural diversity.
- High graduate employment rate.
- Clinical experiences at top facilities.
- Compassionate, culturally sensitive care.
- Rigorous curriculum.
Mishawaka, IN
Bethel University
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year program
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab included
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- ACEN accredited
- Clinical experiences
- Spiritual formation focus
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year BSN program
- Starts clinicals sophomore year
- 100% NCLEX pass rate
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab available
- Faith-based holistic care
- Accredited by ACEN
- Financial aid options
Notre Dame, IN
Saint Mary's College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based BSN program
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate
- State-of-the-art training facility
- Study abroad opportunities
- Small clinical groups
- Liberal arts education
- Accredited by CCNE
- Hands-on clinical experience
South Bend, IN
Indiana University-South Bend
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Two years prerequisites
- Two years clinical
- Fall and spring admission
- Minimum 2.50 GPA
- Minimum 2.70 science GPA
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Competitive admission
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- For registered nurses.
- Focuses on critical thinking.
- Cultural sensitivity training.
- Effective communication skills.
- Health and wellness emphasis.
- Patient care coordination.
- Prepares for diverse environments.
