Indiana NP Programs at a Glance
| State practice authority | Reduced Practice – NPs require collaborative agreement with a physician |
| Indiana Board of Nursing | Indiana Board of Nursing |
| Indiana median NP wage | ~$118,000 (Payscale/BLS, 2024). See Indiana state OES tables for current detail. |
| National median NP wage | $129,210/year (BLS, May 2024) |
| Projected NP job growth | 46% (2023–2033) nationally – one of the fastest-growing professions |
| Primary accreditors | CCNE · ACEN |
| Common NP specialty tracks | FNP, AGNP (Primary/Acute), PMHNP, PNP, WHNP, NNP |
| Typical program length | 2–3 years (MSN-NP) or 3–4 years (BSN-to-DNP), full-time post-BSN |
Our Editorial Process
This guide is written by a credentialed nurse and reviewed against source-of-truth references at least annually. Program accreditation is verified against the CCNE program directory and ACEN directory. Indiana licensure information is verified against the Indiana Board of Nursing. Salary and growth figures come directly from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Indiana data. Read our full editorial standards.
2026 Updates for Indiana NP Programs
- Indiana practice authority. Indiana is a Reduced Practice authority state. NPs can practice but require a collaborative agreement with a physician for certain functions (often including prescribing). Legislative efforts to expand NP scope toward full practice authority continue at the state level.
- BLS data refresh (May 2024 OES). National median NP wage is now $129,210; Indiana-specific data is published in the Indiana state OES tables.
- Projected NP job growth. 46% projected employment growth from 2023 to 2033 nationally – one of the fastest-growing occupations the BLS tracks.
- AACN 2025 Position Statement. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reaffirmed the DNP as the preferred terminal degree for advanced practice. BSN-to-DNP and post-master’s DNP pathways continue to be the dominant educational routes for new NPs in Indiana.
- Telehealth permanence. Federal and state telehealth flexibilities introduced during 2020 have largely been made permanent, expanding remote NP roles across primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management.
- PMHNP demand surge. Mental health workforce shortages are particularly acute nationwide; PMHNP-specific job postings have outpaced general NP postings consistently. See our PMHNP career guide.
As with many other states, Indiana has a shortage of primary care physicians. This is particularly pronounced in the remote, rural areas of the state. According to the Indiana Business Journal, 87% of rural IN residents experience primary care shortage, compared to 62% of urban residents.
Nurse practitioners can help address the gap by providing care in these areas. And, given the high demand for such APRNs, nurses can take advantage of such an opportunity by enrolling in any of these NP programs:
Program Overview:
The School of Nursing at BSU in Muncie, IN focuses on promoting learning, values, and leadership. Their programs are built on sciences, humanities, and liberal arts, enabling the students to excel in nursing. As such, it is ranked as the 4th best nursing school in Indiana by RNcareers.org.
BSU was also recognized as the 28th best online graduate nursing program by US News & World Report. Its FNP students, meanwhile, have registered a 100% first-time pass rate on the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board Exam.
Program Overview:
Established in 1894, Goshen College is a private liberal arts institution located in Goshen, IN. It offers interdisciplinary learning through small class sizes, as taught by distinguished faculty.
The college offers undergraduate nursing programs, as well as online adult nursing programs. Its in-person MSN program, meanwhile, was named the second-best program in Indiana by NursingProcess.com in 2022. Graduates of the said program have registered a 96%passing rate for the certification exams.
Program Overview:
Marian University is a Franciscan institution that offers nursing programs through its Alan and Sue Leighton School of Nursing. The CCNE-accredited undergraduate and graduate offerings are designed to help students provide optimum care in a number of healthcare settings.
As per RNcareers.org, Marian University is ranked 14th out of the 38 nursing schools in Indiana. College Factual, meanwhile places the Indianapolis-based school a notch lower (15th).
Marian U’s DNP graduates have posted a 90% passing rate in the FNP certification exams.
Program Overview:
Founded in 1963, the ISU School of Nursing offers several undergraduate and graduate nursing programs that are designed to help its students excel. With its rigorous academic curricula, dedicated faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, ISU students are sure to build the competencies they need to become exceptional practitioners.
ISU graduate programs, which were first offered in 1986, are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The Terre Haute, IN-based institution is currently ranked as the 13th-best nursing school in Indiana by RNcareers.org.
ISU NP students have posted a 100% passing rate for the ANCC exams.
Program Overview:
Based in Richmond, IN, IU-East’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences was launched to help create a hands-on learning environment for future healthcare leaders. Its Nursing programs are accredited by both the Indiana Board of Nursing and ACEN.
US News & World Report ranks IU-East’s Nursing program as the 228th best in the country.
Program Overview:
In 1914, the IU School of Nursing opened its doors. The first students were trained by Alice Fitzgerald, the first director of the program. The following year, Ethel Clarke served as the director of education and hospital nursing service at the affiliated Robert W. Long Hospital.
The 1950s saw the awarding of the first BSN degrees, while the first Masters degrees were conferred in 1963. In 2009, the university began awarding the DNP degree.
Recently, US News & World Report ranked IU’s graduate nursing degrees as the 50th best in the country. Its DNP program, meanwhile, is ranked 75th.
Program Overview:
IU-Kokomo’s School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions is driven by the mission of molding students who make a difference in the field of healthcare. The school is manned by expert faculty members who guide their students through various immersive clinical experiences.
Niche has ranked IU-Kokomo’s Nursing school as the 153rd best in the country.
Program Overview:
Based in Gary, IN, IU-Northwest is bound by the mission of educating nurses who foster health and human dignity. With its student-centered curriculum that focuses on evidence-based practice, its FNP students consistently garner a 100% first-time passing rate in the certification exams.
Program Overview:
IU-South Bend’s Dwyer School of Health Sciences offers transformative educational experiences through its immersive program offerings. As part of the IU consortium, it continues to live up to the system’s mission of providing high-quality and evidence-based nursing education.
US News & World Ranking places IU-South Bend’s nursing program at the 133rd spot in the list of best colleges.
Program Overview:
The IWU School of Nursing and Health Professions provides integrated education programs that combine evidence-based findings with hands-on learning. With its rigorous curriculum and expert faculty members, IWU students are expected to provide the utmost clinical care while promoting Christian values.
RNcareers.org places IWU at the 11th spot out of the 38th nursing schools in Indiana. Similar to IU-South Bend, its nursing program is ranked 133rd in the country.
IWU graduates have posted a 100% passing rate for their certification exams.
Program Overview:
The Purdue School of Nursing is driven by the mission of improving the quality of life of people, not only those living in Indiana, but that of the nation and the whole world. The school makes it possible through its rigorous nursing programs and advocacy for healthcare legislation.
The West Lafayette, IN-based university offers many programs that are highly ranked by the US News & World Report. This 2024, its traditional MSN program has been ranked 22nd while its online MSN has been ranked 125th. Purdue’s DNP program, meanwhile, is touted as the 24th-best in the country.
Purdue’s NP certification exam passing rate averages at 92.5%.
- BSN to MSN: AGPCNP
- BSN to MSN: FNP
- BSN to MSN: PMHNP
- BSN to MSN: PNP (Primary Care)
- BSN/MSN to DNP: AGPCNP
- BSN/MSN to DNP: FNP
- BSN/MSN to DNP: PMHNP
- BSN/MSN to DNP: PNP (Primary Care)
- Post-Masters Certificate: AGPCNP
- Post-Masters Certificate: FNP
- Post-Masters Certificate: PMHNP
- Post-Masters Certificate: PNP (Primary Care)
Program Overview:
As a designated NLN Center of Nursing Excellence, Purdue University-Northwest is known for its excellence in nursing research, student learning, and faculty development.
This 2024, US News & World Report has named the traditional MSN-FNP program as the 87th best in the country, up from the 100th spot in 2023. Its online MSN program is also recognized as one of the best in the nation by the same award-giving body.
Program Overview:
Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, IN is a private liberal arts college for women. Founded in 1843, the college offers graduate nursing programs that are open to men and women alike. To date, US News & World Report has recognized St. Mary’s as the 183rd best Nursing school in the country. In 2022, Nursing Schools Almanac listed it as a top 5% nursing school in Indiana.
Program Overview:
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods is a Catholic liberal arts college that first opened its doors in 1840. Formerly an all-women’s college, the now-coed school offers nursing programs that feature a mix of scientific, liberal arts, and Catholic foundations.
The CCNE-accredited school’s MSN program has been recognized by US News & World Report as one of the best in the country. Nursing Schools Almanac and Niche have also listed it as one of the best Nursing schools in Indiana.
The school’s first FNP cohort scored a 100% passing rate in the certification exams.
Program Overview:
Founded in 1959, The UIndy School of Nursing started offering a 2-year associate’s degree. A decade later, the school started to offer a BSN degree. Its MSN-NP program was launched in 1995. To date, it is the only school in Indiana to offer an NNP program.
The UIndy School of Nursing is ranked by US News & World Report on various fronts. Its MSN program is ranked 135th while its online MSN is 54th in the nation. Its DNP program, on the other hand, is at the 138th place out of 157.
UIndy FNP students have posted a 100% first-time pass rate for the certification exams.
Program Overview:
The University of Saint Francis at Fort Wayne is a Catholic university founded in 1890. Its nursing programs are accredited by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. and CCNE.
In 2023, Niche named USF as the second-best nursing school in Indiana. RNcareers.org, meanwhile, has named it the 4th-best nursing school in Indiana. In 2024, US News & World Report listed USF as the top 402 nursing school in the country.
USF’s DNP graduates have consistently posted a 100% first-time passing rate at the ANCC and AANP board certification exams.
Program Overview:
The USI Kinney College of Nursing and Health Professions offers various nursing degrees, alongside other health-related programs. The curriculum is designed to address complex healthcare needs through lessons that focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice.
RNcareers.org recognized USI as the top nursing school in Indiana. Its online MSN program, meanwhile, is ranked 32 out of 185 by the US News & World Report.
Program Overview:
At the College of Nursing and Health Professions, aspiring nurses can learn to become critical thinkers, unwavering leaders, and exceptional performers. Such is made possible by the college’s tradition of excellence, which has long been evident since its founding more than 50 years ago.
In 2023, Incredible Health named Valparaiso as the second-best nursing school in Indiana. RNcareers.org, meanwhile, places it at rank 12.
Valparaiso DNP students have posted a 100% first-time passing rate in the certification exams.
Educational Routes to Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Indiana
Five distinct routes appear across the NP schools listed on this page. Each suits a different starting credential and timeline. All five satisfy the Indiana State Board of Nursing APRN-certification requirements when paired with national NP certification.
1. MSN-NP (Most Common Route)
The traditional Master of Science in Nursing with an NP specialty track. Designed for working RNs who already hold a BSN. Typical length: 2 to 3 years full-time or 3 to 4 years part-time, with 500 to 750 clinical hours. Indiana MSN-NP options span all 18 on-page schools and cover FNP as the dominant track. The Indiana University system runs MSN-FNP across 5 regional campuses (IU-Indianapolis, IU-East, IU-Kokomo, IU-Northwest, IU-South Bend), and Ball State, Indiana Wesleyan, and Indiana State all offer hybrid or online MSN-NP coursework.
2. RN-to-MSN Bridge (No BSN Required)
For ADN-prepared RNs who want to skip a separate BSN program. The bridge adds 12 to 18 months of BSN-level coursework before the master’s component begins. In Indiana, Indiana State University, University of Southern Indiana, and Indiana Wesleyan all offer RN-MSN bridges into NP tracks. Total time-to-degree typically lands at 3 to 4 years. See the broader top RN-to-NP programs ranking.
3. BSN-to-DNP (Doctoral-Entry NP)
Aligned with the AACN’s 2025 DNP position statement. Combines NP-specialty training with terminal-degree coursework over 3 to 4 years and roughly 1,000 clinical hours. 11 Indiana schools offer a DNP program — see the full Indiana DNP programs guide for state-specific detail, or online BSN-to-DNP programs for ranked national options.
4. Post-Master’s Certificate (Existing MSN Holders)
For nurses who already hold a master’s-level NP credential and want to add a second specialty — an FNP adding AGNP, an FNP adding PMHNP, etc. Typical length: 12 to 24 months and ~500 clinical hours. Indiana post-master’s certificate options include Indiana University, Purdue, Ball State, and Indiana Wesleyan. The NP Certifications hub covers the certificate landscape in depth.
5. Accelerated & Direct-Entry (Non-Nursing Bachelor’s)
For career changers with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. The student earns an accelerated BSN first (12 to 16 months), then enters an NP master’s or DNP track. Indiana’s flagship direct-entry options include the IU School of Nursing’s Direct MSN pathway and Marian University’s Entry-into-Practice MSN. Total time-to-NP-licensure: typically 4 to 5 years from start of accelerated BSN.
Fast & Affordable Indiana NP Programs (Editorial Picks)
These editorial picks balance time-to-degree, total program cost, and accreditation. All programs listed are CCNE or ACEN accredited and confirmed to currently enroll Indiana residents.
Fastest Indiana NP Programs
- Indiana State University — Online MSN-FNP: Multiple intakes per year; accelerated track for working RNs.
- Ball State University — Online MSN-FNP: Mostly-online coursework with statewide preceptor placement; competitive cohort sizes.
- Indiana Wesleyan University — Online MSN-FNP: Year-round enrollment with 24 to 28-month completion path.
- Purdue University — Post-Master’s NP Certificate: 12 to 18 months for current MSN holders adding an Indiana specialty.
Most Affordable Indiana NP Programs (In-State Tuition)
- University of Southern Indiana — Online MSN-FNP: Public-university tuition at one of the lowest published per-credit rates in the state.
- Indiana State University — Online MSN-FNP: Public Indiana tuition with strong Wabash Valley clinical network.
- Ball State University — MSN-FNP: Public Indiana tuition with online and Muncie-campus delivery.
- Indiana University-Indianapolis — MSN-NP: IU School of Nursing flagship at Indianapolis tuition; nationally-ranked.
- Purdue University — MSN-NP: Public West Lafayette tuition with strong clinical pipeline through IU Health.
Indiana Schools Offering Popular NP Specialties
The matrix below maps Indiana NP-track schools to the two most-published specialty paths in the state — FNP and DNP entry. Most Indiana schools lead with FNP at the master’s level; 11 schools offer a Doctor of Nursing Practice option. Each H3 links to the relevant child page.
Family NP (FNP)
The most common specialty in Indiana. All 18 schools listed on this page offer an FNP track in some format — MSN, BSN-to-DNP, or post-master’s certificate.
- Ball State University
- Goshen College
- Marian University
- Indiana State University
- Indiana University-East
- Indiana University-Indianapolis
- Indiana University-Kokomo
- Indiana University-Northwest
- Indiana University-South Bend
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- Purdue University
- Purdue University-Northwest
- Saint Mary’s College
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
- University of Indianapolis
- University of Saint Francis
- University of Southern Indiana
- Valparaiso University
BSN-to-DNP and Post-Master’s DNP Programs in Indiana
Aligned with the AACN 2025 DNP position statement. The 11 Indiana schools below offer a Doctor of Nursing Practice program. See the dedicated Indiana DNP programs guide for admissions detail.
- Indiana University
- Marian University
- Purdue University
- University of Saint Francis
- Ball State University
- Indiana State University
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- Saint Mary’s College
- University of Indianapolis
- University of Southern Indiana
- Valparaiso University
Nurse Practitioner Programs in Indiana by City & Region
Indiana’s 18 featured NP schools cluster around 6 regions: Indianapolis Metro (IU-Indianapolis, Marian, U of Indianapolis), Northwest Indiana (Purdue NW, Valparaiso, IU-Northwest), South Bend / North Central (IU-South Bend, Saint Mary’s, Goshen), the Wabash Valley (Indiana State, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Purdue), Muncie / East Central (Ball State, IU-East, IU-Kokomo), and Southern Indiana (U of Southern Indiana, U of Saint Francis, Indiana Wesleyan).
Indianapolis Metro
- Indiana University-Indianapolis — Indianapolis
- Marian University — Indianapolis
- University of Indianapolis — Indianapolis
- Indiana Wesleyan University — Marion (Indianapolis-area)
Northwest Indiana
- Purdue University-Northwest — Hammond
- Valparaiso University — Valparaiso
- Indiana University-Northwest — Gary
South Bend / North Central
- Indiana University-South Bend — South Bend
- Saint Mary’s College — Notre Dame
- Goshen College — Goshen
Wabash Valley
- Indiana State University — Terre Haute
- Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College — Saint Mary-of-the-Woods
- Purdue University — West Lafayette
East Central Indiana
- Ball State University — Muncie
- Indiana University-East — Richmond
- Indiana University-Kokomo — Kokomo
Southern Indiana
- University of Southern Indiana — Evansville
- University of Saint Francis — Fort Wayne
