2026 Best Nursing Schools in Indianapolis

Choosing the right nursing program is crucial for career success, and rankings provide valuable guidance by highlighting top-performing schools. Registerednursing.org is creating the "Best Nursing Schools in Indianapolis" rankings based solely on NCLEX pass rates to help students make informed decisions. For more details on how these rankings are compiled, visit our https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

NCLEX pass rates in Indianapolis have shown a positive upward trend over recent years, indicating improving educational outcomes for nursing students in the area.

  • 2024: Average pass rate 90.55% with 1,424 students
  • 2023: Average pass rate 89.86% with 1,344 students
  • 2022: Average pass rate 85.85% with 1,228 students

Top Performing Schools

When evaluating nursing schools in Indianapolis, Ivy Tech Community College-Hamilton County stands out as a top performer based on consistent NCLEX success rates over multiple years.

  • Ivy Tech Community College-Hamilton County: Average pass rate 88.87% with 3,996 students across 3 years of data

Yearly Nursing Graduates

The number of nursing graduates in Indianapolis has steadily increased each year, reflecting growing enrollment in local nursing programs and potential expansion of healthcare workforce capacity.

  • 2024: 1,424 graduates
  • 2023: 1,344 graduates
  • 2022: 1,228 graduates

Pass Rate by Program Size

Medium-sized nursing programs in Indianapolis demonstrate solid performance, suggesting that these programs effectively balance resources and student support.

  • Medium programs (50-100 students/year): Average pass rate 88.3% with 94 students
#1

University of Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN - Private 4-year - uindy.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Indianapolis offers a campus-based Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing principles through hands-on clinical experiences. This program requires a high school diploma or equivalent for admission, with specific prerequisites, but does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams. The program emphasizes critical thinking, patient care, and leadership skills to prepare graduates for diverse healthcare settings. NCLEX pass rates for BSN graduates have shown significant improvement, rising from 78.9% in 2022 to 94.7% in 2024, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for licensure. Financial aid is available for eligible students.

  • Campus-based learning
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • Strong nursing foundation
  • Financial aid available
  • Leadership skills focus

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional BSN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Traditional BSN program at University of Indianapolis is a campus-based program designed for high school graduates and career changers seeking to enter the nursing profession. This concentration focuses on building a solid foundation in nursing principles, patient care, and clinical practices to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent with science and math prerequisites, but no ACT or SAT entrance exams are required. The program combines theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on clinical experiences. NCLEX pass rates have shown consistent improvement, reaching 94.7% in 2024, indicating strong preparation for nursing licensure. Financial aid options are available.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • High school diploma required
  • Financial aid available

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN In-Person Track)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) In-Person Track at University of Indianapolis offers a fast-paced path to nursing for students with a previous bachelor's degree in another field. This campus-based program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experience to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission requires a previous bachelor's degree and prerequisite courses, but no entrance exams are specified. The intensive curriculum provides direct access to faculty and resources. NCLEX pass rates for BSN graduates have demonstrated impressive growth, increasing from 78.9% in 2022 to 94.7% in 2024, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students for nursing licensure. Financial aid is available to eligible students.

  • Accelerated BSN program
  • In-Person Track
  • Campus-based learning
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Requires previous bachelor's degree
  • Prerequisite courses needed
  • Financial aid available
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Fast-paced nursing education
  • Direct faculty access
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN - Public 2-Year - ivytech.edu

Associate - Nursing Traditional, AS

Campus Based - Visit Website

Ivy Tech Community College's Nursing Traditional, AS program in Indianapolis prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam through a 4-semester curriculum covering 69-71 credit hours. This campus-based program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings. Admission requires prerequisite courses with a 'C' or higher, and no ACT or SAT entrance exam is needed for this associate degree. The program's affordability stands out, with in-state tuition around $12,665. Recent NCLEX pass rates have been strong, including 88.3% in 2024 with 94 students, reflecting effective preparation for nursing licensure.

  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
  • 4 semesters program length
  • 69-71 credit hours
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Affordable in-state tuition
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Campus-based program
  • Transfer options available
  • Focus on practical skills
  • Diverse clinical settings
#3

Indiana University-Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN - Public 4-Year - indianapolis.iu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Indiana University-Indianapolis offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with both Traditional and Second Degree Accelerated tracks, starting in August or January. This campus-based program requires ACT or SAT scores for admission and emphasizes hands-on learning to prepare students for the nursing profession. The NCLEX pass rate has shown significant improvement, reaching 92.5% in 2024 with 512 students. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and the program meets Indiana's licensure requirements while catering to diverse student needs through rolling admissions for the RN to BSN option.

  • Traditional and accelerated tracks available.
  • Starts in August or January.
  • Financial aid and scholarships offered.
  • Rolling admissions for RN to BSN.
  • Meets Indiana licensure requirements.
  • Hands-on learning focus.
  • Diverse student needs catered.
  • Solid healthcare foundation.
  • Academic criteria for admission.
  • Prepares for nursing career.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Second Degree Accelerated)

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Second Degree Accelerated BSN Track at Indiana University-Indianapolis provides a fast-paced path to nursing for individuals with existing bachelor's degrees. This pre-licensure campus program requires ACT or SAT entrance exams and combines rigorous coursework with clinical experiences to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. With flexible fall, spring, and summer start dates, the program has demonstrated strong NCLEX performance, achieving a 92.5% pass rate in 2024. Financial aid is available for eligible students, making this track ideal for career changers seeking efficient entry into nursing.

  • Accelerated program for degree holders.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Flexible start dates.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • Financial aid available.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Indiana University-Indianapolis offers an online RN to BSN program designed specifically for registered nurses seeking career advancement. This flexible, distance-accessible program requires an RN license for admission but does not mandate entrance exams, making it accessible for working professionals. The curriculum enhances clinical skills and leadership development while allowing nurses to balance education with career commitments. Financial aid options support eligible students in this program that prepares graduates for broader healthcare opportunities without interrupting their current nursing practice.

  • Online RN to BSN program.
  • Flexible, distance-accessible curriculum.
  • Designed for working RNs.
  • Enhances clinical and leadership skills.
  • Requires RN license for admission.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Prepares for broader healthcare opportunities.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Marian University

Indianapolis, IN - Private 4-year - marian.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Marian University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program provides a comprehensive campus-based education that integrates liberal arts with extensive clinical training. Students complete a six-semester clinical rotation schedule, gaining hands-on experience at Indianapolis healthcare facilities. For admission, freshmen must submit high school GPA and ACT or SAT scores, while transfer students need a minimum 2.80 GPA. The program emphasizes critical thinking and collaborative skills essential for modern nursing practice. NCLEX pass rates have shown strong performance, with 2023 achieving a perfect 100% pass rate among 15 graduates and 2024 maintaining solid results at 89.5% among 162 graduates.

  • Campus-based program
  • Six-semester clinical rotation
  • Liberal arts foundation
  • Proximity to Indianapolis hospitals
  • 2.80 GPA requirement for transfers
#5

Chamberlain University-Indiana

Indianapolis, IN - Private 4-year - chamberlain.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Chamberlain University-Indiana offers a hybrid Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, allowing completion in as few as three years. The program requires no prerequisites, enabling students to begin nursing courses immediately, and does not mandate ACT or SAT entrance exams. With a recent 2024 NCLEX pass rate of 88.6% for 53 students, up from 77.2% in 2023, the program demonstrates strong exam preparation. It features comprehensive support including NCLEX prep, professional tutoring, and flexible evening and weekend classes, while over 90% of students receive financial aid. Accredited by CCNE, it provides robust clinical training across 20+ campus locations.

  • Hybrid learning option
  • Complete in 3 years
  • No prerequisites required
  • Access to NCLEX prep
  • Over 90% receive financial aid
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • 20+ campus locations
  • Flexible evening and weekend classes
  • Comprehensive clinical preparation
  • Robust student support system
*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Indianapolis, IN

A career helping patients heal is its own reward. Due to rising demand, there’s never been a better time to enter the expanding field of nursing. Indianapolis, IN is home to several colleges that offer LPN to RN, Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs geared toward entry-level workers.

LPN to RN Programs

Take control over your career and attract more employers when you complete a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) program in Indianapolis, Indiana. RNs can take on more impactful roles while earning higher wages and becoming more sought after by employers. By crediting them for approved coursework, FORTIS offers LPNs clearly delineated roadmaps to becoming Registered Nurses in less time.

ADN Programs

For individuals looking to get their feet wet in the area of nursing, the Associate Degree in Nursing can be a smart place to begin. Introducing students to both real world and theoretical aspects of nursing, the ADN is typically completed in less than 2 years. With small class sizes and a focus on individual learning, Tech Ivy Community College in Indianapolis, IN offers a disciplined ASN program that prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. It also offers direct educational pathways to BSN and even MSN options.

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

By beginning your nursing vocation with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN), you can command a higher salary from the start and earn more over the duration of your career. Hospitals generally prefer to hire registered nurses with BSNs, so they have an advantage when applying for jobs. Marian University in Indianapolis, IN offers an intensive, 16-month BSN program where students complete general education courses online and labs and clinical rotations in hands-on settings. The program prepared graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam and boasts an 89% pass rate.

Find out more about Indiana Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Indianapolis, IN

Bridge or accelerated programs were designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses. RN to BSN/MSN programs enable nurses to earn either a bachelor’s or master’s degree without having to take time away from work. This way, nurses can apply what they learn in the classroom right away and have an immediate impact at work.

RN to BSN Programs

An RN with an active license can add a proverbial feather to her nursing cap by completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With a focus on expediency, many RN to BSN pathways allow nurses to apply approved coursework toward the completion of their bachelor’s degree. Accredited Indiana Wesleyan University offers a blended online and hands-on program so working nurses can earn their degrees in a flexible format.

Find out more about Indiana RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

Professional registered nurses can elevate their careers and take on greater patient duties by earning their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Chamberlain University in Indianapolis, IN offers a unique RN-BSN to MSN online option that allows qualified students to complete their BSN while earning their MSN. Students must choose one of five specialties early in the program. Upon completing the structured pathways, RNs can earn their MSN in a timely and cost-efficient manner.

Find out more about Indiana RN to MSN Programs

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

We provide a list of RN to BSN and MSN programs to help nurses advance their education. This table shows schools by city and state, highlights key program features, and links directly to each school's program page. Explore options to find the right fit for your career goals.

Indianapolis, IN

Indiana University-Indianapolis

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Degree Completion Option

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online program
    • For working RNs
    • Indiana statewide accessibility
    • Distance-accessible learning
    • Career advancement opportunity
*Information sourced from the NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2024).

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Indianapolis, IN

Experienced nurses seeking to take their career to the next level as nurse practitioners, administrators, or educators must enroll in advanced practice nursing degree programs. From specialized post-master’s certificate programs to master’s and even doctorate programs, Indianapolis, Indiana has several attractive options for seasoned nurses.

MSN Programs

Registered nurses who wish to move into leadership or advanced practice nursing roles can do so by completing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program in Indianapolis, IN. MSN programs can require students to select a specific career path though while others offer more traditional, supervisory-focused paths. The faith-based University of Indianapolis has five, career-focused areas including the state's only Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program. Students study in a blended, online and on-campus format so they benefit from flexible study options.

Find out more about Indiana Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Designed for RNs who already hold a master’s degree, certificate programs allow nurses to specialize or advance their career in less time. These advanced practice nursing certificates are generally offered via a mix of online learning with hands-on clinical practice. Ball State University in Indiana offers the Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate in a blended format so working nurses can move ahead more quickly in their nurse practitioner role.

Find out more about Indiana Post-Master's Certificate Programs

DNP & Ph.D. Programs

Upon entering doctoral programs, nurses in Indianapolis, IN are opting to take their careers to the highest possible levels. Nurses with a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can have an impact on patient care in the broadest terms. IUPUI offers a distance learning format for its Ph.D. program where graduates can become leaders, educators or researchers in their field.

Find out more about Indiana DNP Programs

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Indianapolis

Indianapolis offers many advanced nursing programs for registered nurses. We provide a list of APRN programs in the area, including MSN, DNP, and NP options. Each school entry shows the city and state, highlights key program features, and links directly to the school's program page. This table helps you compare programs easily and find the right fit for your career goals.

Indianapolis, IN

American College of Education

  • BSN to MSN - BSN to MSN

    Concentration: Nurse Administrator - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery.
    • 16-month completion time.
    • 31 semester credits.
    • $11,930 total cost.
    • $380 per credit tuition.
    • Nurse Administrator concentration.
    • 200-hour practicum required.
    • BSN degree required.
  • BSN to MSN - BSN to MSN

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nurse Educator concentration available.
    • Total cost $11,930.
    • 31 semester credits required.
    • 16-month completion time.
    • 200-hour practicum experience.
    • BSN degree required for admission.
    • Active RN license needed.

Indiana University-Indianapolis

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 42 credit hour hybrid program
    • 525 direct patient contact hours
    • Multiple certification exam options
    • Interprofessional clinical experiences
    • Post-master's certificate available
    • Advanced practice provider preparation
    • Diverse clinical setting training
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • Adult-Gerontology specialization
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • One year RN experience needed
    • Multiple semester admission options
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Advanced pediatric clinical skills
    • 150-225 clinical hours
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • National certification eligible
    • Multiple practice setting opportunities
    • Evidence-based pediatric curriculum
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Systems

    Online Learning - Website

    • Ranked #11 in U.S. News & World Report 2024.
    • Offers part-time and full-time study plans.
    • Eligible for Nurse Executive certification.
    • Includes administrative practicum experience.
    • Tailored elective courses available.
    • Clinical experiences arranged in Indiana.
    • Covers leadership and organizational theory.
    • Focus on economics and decision-making.
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • State-of-the-art simulation training
    • Expert faculty-led instruction
    • High-acuity clinical experiences
    • National certification preparation
    • Small cohort learning environment
    • Advanced clinical skills training
    • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time program
    • 1,035 total clinical hours
    • 750 direct patient care hours
    • Ages 13+ patient population
    • National certification eligible
    • Hybrid program format
    • Multiple healthcare settings
    • Advanced nursing practice
  • MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time hybrid program
    • 66 credit hours total
    • 1,005 clinical hours required
    • Five specialized NP tracks
    • State-of-the-art simulation training
    • Competitive tuition rates
    • Collaborative healthcare preparation
  • MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time program
    • 1,035 total clinical hours
    • 750 direct patient care hours
    • Nationally certifiable track
    • Multiple employment settings
    • Collaborative clinical learning
    • Evidence-based DNP project
    • Narrative-centered curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time program
    • 1,035 total clinical hours
    • 750 direct patient care hours
    • ANCC certification eligible
    • Multiple healthcare setting options
    • Lifespan mental health focus
    • Interdisciplinary collaboration training
  • MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year BSN-DNP program
    • 1,035 total clinical hours
    • 750 direct patient care hours
    • Multiple healthcare settings
    • Certification eligibility
    • Prescriptive authority qualification
    • Comprehensive pediatric focus
  • MSN to DNP - Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Advanced Clinical - Online Learning - Website

    • Distance-accessible learning format
    • Two and three-year plans
    • Advanced Clinical track focus
    • 3.0 minimum GPA requirement
    • Nationally accredited program
    • Professional leadership development
    • Flexible professional pathways
  • MSN to DNP - Post-MSN Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • Distance-accessible format
    • Two- and three-year plans
    • Executive Leadership track
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • Unencumbered RN license needed
    • National accreditation standards
    • Annual August cohort start

Marian University

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 71 total credit hours
    • Hybrid learning format
    • 100% certification exam pass-rate
    • State-of-art simulation center
    • Accredited by HLC and CCNE
    • Interdisciplinary healthcare preparation
    • Expert faculty practitioners
    • Clinical immersion experience
*Information derived from: IPEDS 2024 survey, conducted by NCES.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Indianapolis, IN

We put together this guide to help you find nursing schools near Indianapolis, IN. The table below lists schools in the area, showing their city and state locations, program highlights, and links to each school's program page. You can use this information to compare options and find a program that fits your goals. Check the links for more details on admissions and courses.

Indianapolis, IN

Butler University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Direct admission program.
    • Hands-on clinical experience first year.
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs.
    • 1:1 preceptorship final semester.
    • Elective course options available.
    • Accredited by HLC and IN State Board.
    • Four-year program duration.
    • No summer classes required.

Chamberlain University-Indiana

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning option
    • Complete in 3 years
    • No prerequisites required
    • Access to NCLEX prep
    • Over 90% receive financial aid
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • 20+ campus locations
    • Flexible evening and weekend classes

Indiana University-Indianapolis

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Traditional and accelerated tracks available.
    • Starts in August or January.
    • Financial aid and scholarships offered.
    • Rolling admissions for RN to BSN.
    • Meets Indiana licensure requirements.
    • Hands-on learning focus.
    • Diverse student needs catered.
    • Solid healthcare foundation.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Second Degree Accelerated - Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated program for degree holders.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Flexible start dates.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Financial aid available.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: RN to BSN - Online Learning - Website

    • Online RN to BSN program.
    • Flexible, distance-accessible curriculum.
    • Designed for working RNs.
    • Enhances clinical and leadership skills.
    • Requires RN license for admission.
    • Financial aid options available.
    • Prepares for broader healthcare opportunities.

Ivy Tech Community College

  • Associate - Nursing Traditional, AS

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
    • 4 semesters program length
    • 69-71 credit hours
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Affordable in-state tuition
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Campus-based program
    • Transfer options available

Marian University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Six-semester clinical rotation
    • Liberal arts foundation
    • Proximity to Indianapolis hospitals
    • 2.80 GPA requirement for transfers

University of Indianapolis

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based learning
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Strong nursing foundation
    • Financial aid available
    • Leadership skills focus
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: ABSN In-Person Track - Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated BSN program
    • In-Person Track
    • Campus-based learning
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Requires previous bachelor's degree
    • Prerequisite courses needed
    • Financial aid available
    • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Traditional BSN - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • High school diploma required
    • Financial aid available
*IPEDS 2024 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.