LPN Programs in Indiana [2023 Guide]

Practical nursing programs are available at community colleges, vocational centers, and nursing schools throughout the state.
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Updated June 27, 2023

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Nursing has historically been a wise career choice in many states, and Indiana is no exception. In February 2015, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) released its biannual list of the Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs for 2014 to 2016. The list is based on several studies and assesses seven occupational measures of growth and opportunity, such as salary, long-term growth estimates, and market turnover. The department ranked licensed practical nurse as number six on the list. For those considering this promising career path in Indiana, the first step is obtaining the right education and training. Below you'll find helpful information on LPN programs in Indiana, job prospects, salaries, and the state's licensure process to get you started on a path towards LPN licensure and employment.

The first step toward a career as an LPN is completing an accredited practical nursing diploma, certificate or degree program. Below you'll find helpful information and statistics on LPN programs in Indiana, job prospects, salaries, and the state's licensure process.

Indiana LPN Programs and Options

Whether in the form of a diploma, certificate program, or an associate degree in nursing, postsecondary education is required to become a practicing LPN in Indiana. Practical nursing programs are available at community colleges, vocational centers, and nursing schools throughout the state. Below, prospective nursing students will find available academic options to see which program and school meets their individual preferences.

#1 LPN Programs in Indiana [2023 Guide]

Ivy Tech Community College

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Many of Ivy Tech Community College's 98 associate programs are offered virtually from its Indianapolis campus. The college's associate of science in nursing program introduces students to the fundamentals of the field and helps them strengthen general skills, including critical thinking and communication. An online format lets candidates complete work for class around full-time or part-time work obligations.

Applicants meet the educational requirements for many entry-level jobs with an associate degree. Learners who want to earn a bachelor's degree in addition to their associate can often do so with just two more years of study. The school features articulation agreements with institutions throughout Indiana, so associate graduates can easily transfer their credits into a bachelor's program.

Ivy Tech Community College at a Glance:

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: Data not available

Total Associate Programs: 98

Total Online Associate Programs: 22

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,350

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,511

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $28,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,350
Out-of-state
$8,511
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
53%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
72,689
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 LPN Programs in Indiana [2023 Guide]

Vincennes University

  • Vincennes, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A total of 99 associate programs, including many online options, are available at Vincennes University. Students pursuing an associate of science in nursing at the Vincennes college learn the core concepts of the field and strengthen general skills, including critical thinking and communication. Candidates can complete their studies while still working full or part time because of the program's online format.

Candidates often qualify for entry-level nursing jobs with an associate degree. Two more years of study allows many learners to add a bachelor's degree to their educational accomplishments. The school features articulation agreements with many of Indiana's four-year institutions, so associate graduates can easily transfer their credits into a bachelor's program.

Vincennes University at a Glance:

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: Data not available

Total Associate Programs: 99

Total Online Associate Programs: 22

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,581

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,871

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $30,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,581
Out-of-state
$13,871
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
32%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
17,239
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How to Obtain a License in Indiana

All practical nurses in Indiana must obtain a state-issued license to practice. Initial licensure and renewals are processed through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA). Below are a detailed outline of what applicants can expected and the required steps for keeping a license active.

Basic Eligibility

There are two methods for obtaining licensure as an LPN in Indiana:

  1. 1

    Examination

    Applicants must successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination. To be eligible for the exam, students must submit both the NCLEX Candidate Bulletin and Indiana licensure application, along with the required fees Provide proof of completion of LPN education in the form of a Certificate of Completion filled out by the director, dean or designee of the nursing school

  2. 2

    Endorsement

    For nurses who have been licensed or certified outside of Indiana. For licensure by endorsement, an applicant must submit proof of graduation from a state-approved nursing program and proof that he or she has passed the NCLEX or STPTE examination

Required Education & Training

Whether applying through examination or endorsement, a candidate for LPN licensure in Indiana must successfully complete a practical nursing program. The program may be provided by either an in-state or out-of-state institution as long as it is properly accredited and state-approved.

There are a number of education options when it comes to LPN programs in Indiana including degree, diploma and certificate programs offered primarily through community colleges and vocational schools. These programs normally require a minimum time commitment of one year, but many programs will accommodate working students who need more time to complete their education.

In most cases, an applicant will need a high school diploma or equivalent for admission to an LPN program. Subjects of study include anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and fundamentals of nursing care. LPN programs will also include practical training under the supervision of a nursing instructor.

Additional Licensure Requirements

  1. State application must include a photo of the applicant, approximately 2-½ x 3-½ inches, head and shoulders view. The photo must include the applicant's signature, seal of his or her school, and the signature of the school's dean, director or designee.
  2. Payment of required state application ($50) and NCLEX registration ($200) fees
  3. Verification of every other nursing license from all other states, territories and countries, if any, that the applicant holds or has held. Applicant must also provide verification of any and all other health-related licenses and certificates currently or previously held, such as CNA licenses and EMT certificates.

Renewing a Professional License

Indiana LPN licenses expire on October 31 of even-numbered years, regardless of the issuance date. Current license holders must renew their licenses and pay the renewal fee is $50.00 before the expiration date. Failure to do so will result in payment of an additional $50.00 late fee.

Licenses that have been expired more than three years can be renewed by submitting a renewal form, paying a $100 fee, and submitting a copy of a current license. If a current license is not available, the applicant can instead send proof of completing 24 continuing education hours covering assessment, documentation, pharmacology, and legal/ethics.

Employment Trends for Indiana LPNs

According to the Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs survey, Indiana LPNs should expect to see nearly 900 job openings a year. That's a projected annual job growth of 22.11 percent. This tremendous growth will not be spread evenly throughout the state or by specific job title, however. The tables below are designed to provide some perspective on where Indiana LPNs can expect to find work going forward.

Top Employment Locations
Area Total Employment (2014)
Indianapolis-Carmel 5,330
Gary IN Metropolitan Division 1,650
Central Indiana nonmetropolitan area 1,600
Fort Wayne 1,460
Southern Indiana nonmetropolitan area 1,250
Top Employment Locations
Area Total Employment (2014)
Northern Indiana nonmetropolitan area 1,160
Evansville IN-KY 1,120
South Bend-Mishawaka IN-MI 670
Terre Haute 620
Bloomington 450

Resources for Indiana LPNs

The BNA's stated mission is to, “provide access to quality healthcare through education, advocacy and care.” The BNA sponsors several programs to meet its mission including mentorship programs, continuing education for nurses, public policy and advocacy, and community outreach and education. The IAHCR is a statewide organization of professional health care recruiters aimed at health care recruitment through education, networking, professional development and community outreach. This student organization's website offers its members and others access to information on Indiana nursing schools, scholarships, job opportunities, and association events including its annual convention. A chapter of the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, the IAOHN represents the interests of occupational and environmental health nurses practicing in Indiana through continuing education, recruitment and retention of its members. The ICN is a non-profit association whose goal is to insure the future of Indiana's nursing workforce. Included here is access to workforce data reports, nursing school surveys, extensive information on becoming an Indiana nurse, and much more. The IHA was established to, “provide Indiana hospitals with leadership, representation and support as they work to improve the health of Indiana citizens.” The IHA supports professional development and continuing education through conferences and careLearning.com, an internet-based educational program. The IRHA is a not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to improve the health of Indiana residents living in rural areas through a variety of services and events, including health clinics, business partnerships, meetings and conventions, and much more. Official website for the Indiana Board of Nursing, whose job is to oversee all state government oversight of nursing in Indiana, including postsecondary education, LPN licensing and other professional practices. The ISNA is the state's professional organization of registered nurses. The ISNA website provides a helpful clearinghouse of information on continuing education, nursing schools, licensing and credentialing, and other related nursing organizations. The PNA-IN supports the interests of Indiana nurses of Philippine descent through conferences, community outreach, scholarships and more.

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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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