Nursing Programs in Fort Wayne, IN

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Fort Wayne, IN

To start out as an RN, students in Fort Wayne 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 an LPN-to-ASN program that enables Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to transition smoothly to becoming Registered Nurses (RNs). This bridge program acknowledges the practical skills and knowledge LPNs bring and provides an accelerated pathway 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. Purdue University Fort Wayne offers a comprehensive Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program. The program's curriculum equips students with fundamental nursing skills and theoretical knowledge. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and enter the nursing workforce.

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 as a "one and done" degree. The University of Saint Francis provides an Accelerated BSN program designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. This program offers an expedited pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and instills essential nursing skills, clinical expertise, and leadership abilities.

Find out more about Indiana Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Fort Wayne, 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-Purdue University Fort Wayne offers a flexible RN-to-BSN program tailored for working RNs. This program acknowledges the experience of Registered Nurses (RNs) and focuses on enhancing their knowledge base 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. Ball State University features an RN-to-MSN bridge program designed for RNs aspiring to advanced practice roles. This program streamlines the transition from RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), paving the way for roles such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.

Learn more about Indiana RN to MSN programs.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Fort Wayne, IN

For nurses looking to enter advanced practice as nurse practitioners, Fort Wayne 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. With approximately two years of study, students are well-equipped to work in a number of nurse practitioner (NP) specializations. The University of Saint Francis offers an MSN program with specializations, such as Family Nurse Practitioner. This program equips nurses with advanced clinical and leadership skills, preparing them for specialized roles in healthcare.

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 to years to finish. Purdue University Global offers post-master's nursing certificates for experienced nurses seeking additional expertise in various specialties. These certificates enhance professional skills and allow nurses to explore new areas 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.

Indiana Wesleyan University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, catering to nurses aiming for the highest level of clinical expertise and leadership. DNP programs emphasize advanced practice skills and innovation in healthcare delivery.

Learn more about Indiana DNP Programs.