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:

2027 Best Nursing Schools in South Bend
Rankings help students choose programs by highlighting schools that produce competent nurses. Registerednursing.org is proud to present the Best Nursing Schools in South Bend. Using NCLEX pass rates as the sole criterion, we evaluated local programs to help you make an informed decision. https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/
Yearly Pass Rate Trends in South Bend
Average pass rates in South Bend nursing schools fluctuated, with a sharp decline in 2022 followed by recovery in 2023 and strong performance in 2024.
- 2024: 94.87% average pass rate (117 students)
- 2023: 92.02% average pass rate (113 students)
- 2022: 76.15% average pass rate (147 students)
Top Performing Schools
Three South Bend nursing schools stood out for their high average pass rates over multiple years.
- Bethel University: 94.43% average pass rate (126 students, 3 years of data)
- Saint Mary's College: 91.65% average pass rate (144 students, 3 years of data)
- Goshen College: 86.13% average pass rate (65 students, 3 years of data)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Programs categorized by student cohort size show that medium-sized programs achieved a perfect pass rate, while small programs also performed well.
- Small (<50 students/year): 90.91% average pass rate (66 students)
- Medium (50-100 students/year): 100% average pass rate (51 students)
Yearly Nursing Graduates
The number of nursing graduates in South Bend varied year to year, with the largest cohort in 2022.
- 2024: 117 graduates
- 2023: 113 graduates
- 2022: 147 graduates
Bethel University
Mishawaka, IN - Private 4-year - betheluniversity.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bethel University's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year, on-campus program designed to launch students into registered nursing practice. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing theory, complemented by hands-on clinical experiences in area healthcare facilities. Students train in updated high-fidelity simulation labs and a cadaver lab to build clinical judgment and technical proficiency. ACEN accreditation and exceptional outcomes—including an NCLEX pass rate of 71.4% in 2022, surging to 100% in both 2023 and 2024—highlight the program's effectiveness. Bethel also notes a #1 ranking in Indiana and the U.S. for NCLEX performance, plus an employer network that includes Mayo Clinic. With a faith-based approach to whole-person care and optional medical mission trips, the program prepares graduates for numerous nursing career paths. Scholarships and military-friendly policies further enhance accessibility.
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Updated high-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab for A&P classes
- Top NCLEX pass rates in Indiana
- Top NCLEX pass rates in the U.S.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bethel University's four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a campus-based program that blends rigorous academics in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing theory with extensive clinical training. Clinical experiences begin in the sophomore year, providing three full years of hands-on patient care across diverse healthcare settings. Students refine their skills using high-fidelity simulation labs and a cadaver lab, ensuring practical competence before graduation. The program, accredited by ACEN, has shown strong NCLEX-RN outcomes: a 91.4% pass rate in 2022, followed by perfect 100% pass rates in 2023 and 2024. Grounded in the Missionary Church tradition, the curriculum emphasizes holistic, compassionate care, and students may participate in medical mission trips. Scholarships, financial aid, and military-friendly policies support a range of learners.
- ACEN accredited
- 4-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Three years of clinicals
- High-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab available
- Medical mission trip opportunities
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 offers a BSN grounded in liberal arts, emphasizing relationship-centered care. Students learn in state-of-the-art simulation labs and in small clinical groups of eight at local hospitals. Study abroad in Cyprus, Puerto Rico, Uganda, or New Zealand is possible without delaying graduation. The CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN success and careers at top institutions; alumni often work at Cleveland Clinic or Mayo Clinic or continue to a DNP. Recent NCLEX pass rates improved from 80.4% (2022) to 93.6% (2023) and 100% (2024). The program description does not mention ACT/SAT requirements.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 95% licensure pass rate
- 91% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- New state-of-the-art simulation labs
- 95.2% NCLEX pass rate
- Study abroad opportunities
- Top 3 nursing program in Indiana
- Small clinical groups of 8
- Community clinical placements
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’s Entry-Level BSN is a four-year, campus-based program. The first two years cover prerequisite general education and science courses; the last two focus on clinical nursing. Admission is competitive, requiring a cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a science GPA of 2.7; ACT/SAT scores are not part of the listed criteria. The 120-credit curriculum prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and careers in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. It strengthens critical thinking and clinical decision-making. NCLEX pass rates have dramatically improved: 79.6% in 2022, 93.1% in 2023, and 97.7% in 2024. Fall/spring starts, pre-nursing admission, and a clinical transfer option add flexibility.
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Competitive admission process
- Clinical transfer application available
- One-time readmission option
Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Delivered online, this RN-BSN pathway from Indiana University South Bend is accredited by CCNE and designed for registered nurses. Because applicants are already RNs, no ACT/SAT entrance exam is required. The curriculum builds on nursing fundamentals, covering evidence-based practice, health policy, leadership, care coordination, and technology. It also emphasizes cultural competence and ethical decision-making. Graduates can pursue management, community health, or specialized clinical roles, and the degree serves as a springboard for graduate education. The program promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion while developing accountable leaders. Its flexible online format allows working nurses to balance career and education.
- CCNE accredited
- Designed for returning RNs
- Serves as basis for graduate study
- Curriculum focuses on health and wellness
- Promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Develops accountable leaders and managers
- Innovations in information management and technology
- Culturally, ethically, and legally competent graduates
Goshen College
Goshen, IN - Private 4-year - goshen.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Goshen College offers Indiana's oldest Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, centered on whole-person care and cultural sensitivity. The curriculum integrates liberal arts with nursing theory, covering acute care, psychiatric/mental health, ethics, pharmacology, and holistic assessment. Students gain practical skills in simulation labs and at regional hospitals, plus a unique cross-cultural Study Service Term that builds global awareness and Spanish competency. The CCNE-accredited program requires a minimum 2.7 GPA. NCLEX-RN pass rates reached 91.3% in 2023 and 90.0% in 2024. Graduates enjoy high employment and can pursue roles as registered nurses, pediatric nurses, or nurse practitioners. ACT/SAT entrance exam requirements are not listed in the provided program description; applicants should confirm with admissions.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 95% licensure pass rate
- 96% job placement rate
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Oldest BSN program in Indiana
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Cross-cultural immersion experience
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
- ACEN accredited
- $250 per credit
- Complete in as little as one year
- 120 total credit hours
- 10 total courses
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prepares for NCLEX
South Bend, IN
Indiana University-South Bend
- RN to BSN - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 120 total credit hours
- Online RN-BSN Consortium
- 33 credit hour nursing curriculum
- For licensed RNs with ADN
- Based at IU South Bend campus
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
- Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education accredited
- 2 concentration options
- $17,910 total program tuition
- $555 per credit
- 2-Year program
- Complete in can be completed in two years
- 33 total credit hours
- 11 total courses
- 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
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 780 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Optional focus in geriatric neuropsychiatry
- Three on-campus immersions per year
- Career services for life
- Extensive alumni network
- 38% projected job growth for NPs
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Geriatric Neuropsychiatry - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Optional geriatric neuropsychiatry focus
- 780 direct patient care hours
- 400 practicum hours
- Three on-campus immersions per year
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Mostly online for working professionals
- Top-five DNP program ranking
- 47% job growth projected
- Renewable scholarships and stipend
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 2 concentration options
- 780 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- On-campus immersions three times yearly
- Optional focus in geriatric neuropsychiatry
- 38% projected job growth for NPs
- Lifetime career services
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Geriatric Neuropsychiatry - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Renewable scholarships
- Preceptor stipend
- Online class format
- Weekend campus visits each semester
- Geriatric Neuropsychiatry specialization
- GuideStar Eldercare partnership
- Preceptor financial support
- DNP Practice Innovation Project
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
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 3 concentration options
- 300 clinical hours
- Capstone required
- Prepares for faculty and staff educator roles
- Part of IU Regional MSN Consortium
- Web-based and video course technologies
- Addresses nationwide nursing faculty shortage
Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near South Bend, IN
Goshen, IN
Goshen College
- Bachelor's - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 95% licensure pass rate
- 96% job placement rate
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Oldest BSN program in Indiana
Mishawaka, IN
Bethel University
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Updated high-fidelity simulation labs
- Cadaver lab for A&P classes
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 4-Year program
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Three years of clinicals
- High-fidelity simulation labs
Notre Dame, IN
Saint Mary's College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 95% licensure pass rate
- 91% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- New state-of-the-art simulation labs
- 95.2% NCLEX pass rate
- Study abroad opportunities
- Top 3 nursing program in Indiana
South Bend, IN
Indiana University-South Bend
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Competitive admission process
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Designed for returning RNs
- Serves as basis for graduate study
- Curriculum focuses on health and wellness
- Promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Develops accountable leaders and managers
- Innovations in information management and technology
- Culturally, ethically, and legally competent graduates
