How To Become a Nurse in Indiana 2025

Registered nurses (RNs) are often the backbone of a healthcare facility. They care for patients, help them understand their conditions, and help their departments run smoothly.

Every state requires RNs to have an RN license. If you're wondering how to become a nurse, note that these licensure requirements vary by state. Keep reading to learn about the requirements to become a nurse in Indiana.

What Does an RN Do?

Certified registered nurse care for patients in healthcare facilities. Their job duties may include:

• assessing and observing patients
• recording observations, medical history, and symptoms in the patient's chart
• administering medication and other treatments
• operating and monitoring medical equipment
• assisting with patient care plans
• educating patients on their care plans

The specific job duties of an RN depend on where they work. Most nurses work in hospitals, but they can also work in places like nursing homes or clinics. Job duties can also vary depending on the department. For example, a public health nurse will have different job duties than an intensive care nurse.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Nurse in Indiana?

The length of time it takes to obtain an RN license in Indiana depends on a few factors, including what program you choose and how long it takes you to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).

If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, you may be able to find accelerated nursing programs online that allow you to become an RN in a year or so. Otherwise, most associate degree programs take two to three years. Some offer accelerated pathways for licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

4 Steps To Become a Registered Nurse in Indiana

To obtain RN licensure in Indiana, you'll need to meet the educational requirements for nurses and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. We've highlighted the key steps to becoming a nurse in Indiana below.

Step 1: Complete a Nursing Program

Nurses in Indiana must complete a nursing degree program. There are a few different options available depending on your current level of education.

If you don't have a college degree yet, you can pursue an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Associate degree programs are shorter, but BSN programs can lead to leadership roles and graduate study.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree, consider a second bachelor's program in nursing. These are often accelerated BSN (ABSN) options that take one to two years. Some schools also offer entry-level Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs.

Whatever nursing school you choose must be accredited by the Indiana State Board of Nursing (ISBN). Your nursing program will include coursework on topics like patient care and public health, as well as provide you with clinical experiences.

Step 2: Submit a Nursing License Application

After you've completed your nursing education, you'll be able to submit an application for an RN license by examination. You'll need to submit documentation of your education, including a Certificate of Completion from your school.

You'll also need to pay an application fee and complete a criminal background check. You can find a full list of application requirements through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency website.

Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-RN and Obtain Licensure

Before you can obtain your nursing license, you must take and pass the NCLEX-RN. This exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and tests you on client needs, fundamental processes in nursing, and your clinical judgment.

Indiana offers a temporary RN permit for those waiting to take the NCLEX-RN or waiting for their test results. After you pass the exam, you'll be given your initial RN license.

RN licenses in Indiana expire on October 31st of every odd-numbered year. You'll need to renew your license to keep it active. Indiana, unlike most other states, does not require continuing education (CE) for RN licensure renewal.

Step 4: Consider Furthering Your Education and Career

Often, RNs choose to further their nursing education, giving them the opportunity for career advancement. If you have an associate degree, you can complete your bachelor's degree through a shortened RN to BSN program.

If you have your BSN, you may want to pursue a master's degree or even a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These lead to advanced nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.

Top Nursing Degree Programs in Indiana

Many colleges and universities in Indiana offer accredited nursing programs that lead to RN licensure as well as online nursing programs for career advancement. We've highlighted some of the state's top programs below.

1. Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech Community College is the public community college system in Indiana. It offers an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) that takes four semesters of nursing courses to complete.

This program is available at 23 campuses within the Ivy Tech system. The program at the Evansville campus had a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in the most recent year. The campus in Valparaiso wasn't far behind, with a pass rate of 98.4%.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,154 per year (in-state); $9,935 per year (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), National League for Nursing, Commission for Nurse Education Accreditation (NCN CNEA), and ISBN.

2. St. Mary's College

At St. Mary's College, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing at a spacious new healthcare training facility that offers nursing students an ultra-realistic clinical experience with the feel of actual hospital and exam rooms.

St. Mary's, a private Catholic school, is located in Notre Dame, IN. It had a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate last year and also offers graduate nursing programs.

• Estimated tuition cost: $53,230 per year (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and ISBN.

3. Bethel University

Bethel University offers both an ADN and BSN program for nursing students. Bethel University is a private Christian institution in Mishawaka, IN.

Both programs prepare students for successful nursing careers through cadaver labs, simulation labs, and clinical experiences, and both had a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN recently. An MSN with tracks in nursing education and nursing administration is also available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $34,600 (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), and ISBN

4. Anderson University

The BSN at Anderson University emphasizes analytical skills, a liberal arts perspective, and the expertise needed for the nursing profession. An accelerated option for those who already hold a bachelor's in another field is available as well.

Anderson University, located in Anderson, IN, is a private Christian school. Its BSN program had a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN in the most recent year.

• Estimated tuition cost: $37,240 (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC, CCNE, and ISBN

5. University of Evansville

The University of Evansville is a private Christian institution in Evansville, IN. It offers a BSN and an ABSN that lead to RN licensure.

These programs provide simulations and clinical experiences to help students prepare for successful nursing careers. Both programs have an NCLEX-RN pass rate of 100% in the most recent test year.

• Estimated tuition cost: $44,172 per year (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC, ACEN, and ISBN

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Indiana

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nursing jobs are expected to increase by 6% across the nation by 2033. The outlook is similar in Indiana, with nursing jobs expected to increase by 5%.

The median annual salary for RNs in Indiana is lower than the national average, $80,740 per year compared to $93,600 per year. However, those in the Chicago metro earn a median of $96,480 per year.

FAQs About How To Become a Nurse in Indiana

Figuring out the educational and licensure requirements to become a nurse can feel a little overwhelming. We've answered some frequently asked questions below to help you out.

How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost in Indiana?

The cost of a nursing degree in Indiana can vary based on several factors, like what degree you're earning, what school you choose, and whether you're an in-state or out-of-state student. The Ivy Tech Community Colleges allow Indiana residents to earn a nursing degree for less than $15,000, while private schools cost more.

The financial aid you qualify for will also influence your costs. All students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what they're eligible for. There are many online colleges that accept FAFSA in Indiana.

Your total will also depend on extra costs, such as textbooks, scrubs, and other nursing supplies. Many programs also require a laptop, and you'll want to consider the best laptop for nursing students.

What Are the Prerequisites for a Nursing Degree?

As with cost, the prerequisites for a nursing degree can vary by program. Most programs will require you to have already taken your general education courses as well as courses in biology, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry. Some schools offer self-paced nursing prerequisites online.

You may also need to meet a minimum GPA and pass an entrance exam such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). You can usually find a full list of program requirements on the school website.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Nurse?

If you don't already have a degree, the fastest way to become a nurse is by earning an ADN. You can always return to school to earn a bachelor's degree.

If you already hold a bachelor's degree, consider accelerated options for a second bachelor's degree or an entry-level master's degree, which typically take less than two years.

What Is the Easiest Nursing Degree?

For most students, the easiest nursing degree is an RN to BSN program. These are bachelor's completion programs designed for working nurses.

Because these programs are for nurses who already have their RN license and are working, they're often more flexible. Many of these programs are online and allow students to complete clinical hours where they work.

Find a Nursing Degree

Find the perfect nursing degree by exploring the programs featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to learn more about how they can help you reach your nursing career goals.