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
#1

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 prepare students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends classroom instruction in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing theory with hands-on clinical experiences. Students train in updated high-fidelity simulation labs and a cadaver lab, applying their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Bethel's nursing program is accredited by ACEN and boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate, ranking #1 in Indiana and the U.S. Graduates are equipped for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health, with job placements at top organizations like Mayo Clinic. The program emphasizes holistic, faith-based care and offers unique opportunities for medical mission trips. With a strong support system, including dedicated faculty and nursing scholarships, Bethel's ADN program provides a solid foundation for a thriving nursing career.

  • 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 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year, campus-based program designed to prepare students for registered nursing careers. The curriculum blends classroom instruction in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing theory with hands-on clinical experiences that begin sophomore year—three full years of clinicals. High-fidelity simulation labs and a cadaver lab provide realistic practice. With a 100% NCLEX pass rate (2023-2024) and ACEN accreditation, graduates are well-prepared for roles as RNs, travel nurses, or pediatric nurses. Bethel's faith-based approach emphasizes holistic, compassionate care, and students can participate in medical mission trips. Scholarships are available.

  • 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
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#2

Saint Mary's College

Notre Dame, IN - Private 4-year - saintmarys.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Saint Mary's College prepares students to become compassionate, skilled nurses grounded in the liberal arts tradition. The curriculum emphasizes relationship-centered care, combining rigorous nursing classes with clinical instruction in state-of-the-art simulation labs at the Center for Healthcare Education. Students gain hands-on experience in small clinical groups of eight at local hospitals and community sites. Unique opportunities include studying abroad in Cyprus, Puerto Rico, Uganda, or New Zealand without delaying graduation. A dedicated communication course enhances patient interaction skills. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, schools, and beyond. Many alumnae work at top institutions like Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic, or advance to graduate programs including Saint Mary's own DNP. With a 95.2% NCLEX pass rate and top rankings in Indiana, the program offers a strong foundation for lifelong nursing success.

  • 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
#3

Indiana University-South Bend

South Bend, IN - Public 4-Year - southbend.iu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Entry-Level BSN at Indiana University-South Bend is a four-year, campus-based program. The first two years cover prerequisite general education and basic science courses. The following two years focus on clinical nursing curriculum. Students must meet competitive admission requirements, including a cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a science GPA of 2.7. The program starts in fall and spring, totaling 120 credit hours. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Coursework emphasizes patient care, critical thinking, and clinical decision-making. Transfer students can apply through a clinical transfer process. The program also offers a pre-nursing track for incoming students. With a combination of academic rigor and hands-on training, this BSN provides a solid foundation for nursing practice.

  • 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

The RN-BSN program at Indiana University South Bend is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career. The curriculum builds on your existing nursing knowledge, focusing on health and wellness, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice. You'll develop skills in care coordination, leadership, and health policy, preparing you for roles in diverse healthcare settings. The program emphasizes cultural competence, ethical practice, and the use of technology in patient care. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this BSN pathway serves as a foundation for graduate study. Whether you aim to move into management, community health, or specialized clinical roles, the RN-BSN offers a flexible, career-enhancing opportunity.

  • 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
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Goshen College

Goshen, IN - Private 4-year - goshen.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Goshen College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is the oldest in Indiana, with a reputation for excellence and cultural sensitivity. The curriculum combines liberal arts with nursing theory, covering acute care, psychiatric/mental health nursing, health care ethics, pharmacology, and holistic client assessment. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements at nearby top-tier hospitals and state-of-the-art simulation labs. A unique cross-cultural immersion experience, part of Goshen’s Study Service Term, develops global awareness and Spanish competency. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers as registered nurses, family nurse practitioners, pediatric nurses, and more. The program emphasizes caring for the whole person and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With a 96% employment rate and 95% NCLEX pass rate, Goshen nursing alumni are in high demand.

  • 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
*IPEDS 2025 institutional statistics, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

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

Discover a comprehensive list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs. The table below shows each school's city and state, highlights what makes each program stand out, and provides direct links to the program pages. Use this resource to compare options and find a path that fits your nursing career goals.

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
*Data compiled from: IPEDS 2025 survey, NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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

South Bend offers several options for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. The table below lists APRN programs, including MSN, DNP, and NP tracks. Each entry shows the school's location, key program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Review these choices to find the right fit for career goals. We've gathered this information to help compare programs easily.
Jump to City:

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
*Federal data source: IPEDS 2025, administered by NCES.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near South Bend, IN

Looking for nursing schools near South Bend, IN? This comprehensive list covers programs with city and state location, program highlights, and direct links to each school's program page. Compare options and find the right fit for a nursing career. We've gathered key facts to help make the search easier. Check out the full table below and click through to learn more.
Jump to City:

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
*IPEDS 2025 data, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.