Nursing in Indiana

Indiana has 65 nursing schools spread across 64 cities, giving you many options no matter where you live in the state. This wide distribution helps fill nursing jobs both in busy urban hospitals and in rural areas where staffing is often a challenge. The state's healthcare sector includes large employers such as IU Health, Ascension St. Vincent, and Community Health Network. These systems offer most of the 68,850 registered nurse (RN) jobs in Indiana, along with opportunities in advanced practice roles like nurse practitioners (NPs) and nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).

Indiana’s NCLEX pass rate for nursing licensure averages 87.3 percent, with a range between about 82 and 92 percent depending on the program. These numbers have been improving recently but remain below the national average in some cases. The presence of some lower-performing programs, including a portion of for-profit schools, contributes to uneven outcomes for new nurses statewide. You should pay attention not only to school rankings but also to their pass rates on the NCLEX before choosing a program.

Nursing wages in Indiana vary widely, reflecting differences in experience, location, and specialty. Registered nurses earn an average of $82,700 per year, though salaries range from just under $62,000 to over $100,000. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) make about $59,460 on average. If you become an advanced practice nurse, such as a nurse anesthetist, salaries can rise well above $120,000, reaching over $200,000 for CRNAs. The cost of living in Indiana is below the national average, which makes these wages more competitive compared to other parts of the country.

Indiana is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so licensure here does not automatically allow you to work in nearby states. Nurses must obtain a license individually for each state where they want to practice. This affects mobility and job options if you plan to work across state lines.

Tuition costs in Indiana reflect typical Midwest patterns. LPN programs generally cost between $5,000 and $15,000 depending on whether you attend a community college or a private institution. ADN (associate degree in nursing) programs tend to range from $8,000 up to $20,000, while BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) programs can cost $20,000 to $50,000 or more, especially at private schools. Community colleges provide more affordable routes, but private colleges often offer specialized tracks or quicker pathways like accelerated BSN programs.

This page offers a look at the strongest nursing programs in Indiana, supported by NCLEX pass rate trends and financial aid opportunities. You can explore programs by type and location to find the best fit based on your goals and budget.