Currently there are two practical nursing programs located in Indianapolis to help students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a successful career as a LPN:
- Hondros College of Nursing
- Ivy Tech
The following is a quick overview of the key differences between these two LPN programs. We have provided a more detailed summary of each programs including admission requirements, coursework. We encourage you to reach out to each to determine which makes the most sense for your schedule, career goals, and budget.
| LPN Program | NCLEX-PN Pass Rate* | Cost | Program Duration | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hondros College of Nursing | 83% | $17,934 | 12 months | 3500 Depauw Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46268 | https://www.hondros.edu/academics/practical-nursing.html |
| Ivy Tech | 97% | $6,730 | 3 semesters: 45 credit hours | 50 W. Fall Creek Parkway N., Indianapolis, IN 46208 | https://www.fortis.edu/programs/nursing/practical-nursing.html |
Hondros College of Nursing
Hondros College of Nursing offers the most comprehensive Practical Nursing program in Indianapolis, which is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
In as little as 12 months, students can earn their diploma and begin their career in healthcare. During this program, students will receive 49 credits of coursework and clinical experience in their second term, so they can immediately apply their knowledge. They will also gain hard skills such as IV therapy training and licensure examination prep, as well as soft skills like communication expertise, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, professionalism, and enthusiasm to ensure they stand out in the field. Upon completion of this program, students will be eligible to take the NCLEX-PN® exam with the assistance of the Hondros College Nursing staff.
Class hours only take place during the daytime and this program is available at the Indianapolis campus near the intersection of Michigan Rd and I-465.
General Admission Requirements
- Citizenship: Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and submit official government-issued documentation such as driver’s license, state ID, passport, or proof of citizenship.
- Age: Applicant must be at least 18 years old upon starting the program.
- Application: Applicant must complete and sign the admission application and pay the necessary fee.
- Online Readiness: Applicant must complete the Student Online Readiness Survey and meet the technology requirements stated in the “Technology Requirements and Acceptable Use Policy.”
- Education: Applicant must have a high school diploma or its equivalent and provide documentation in the form of a valid diploma, transcript, or other acceptable documentation issued by an authorized state education agency. International transcripts/documents require evaluation by a member of NACES or AICE.
- Enrollment: Applicant must complete and sign the enrollment agreement and pay the applicable enrollment fees.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate* | 83% |
| Cost | $17,934 |
| Additional Costs | Approximately $4,136 for textbooks, materials, and other fees |
| Program Duration | 12 months |
| Website | https://www.hondros.edu/academics/practical-nursing.html |
| Location | 3500 Depauw Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46268 |
| Phone | 855-906-6773 |
| [email protected] |
Ivy Tech
The Practical Nursing Technical Certificate (TC) is an ideal program option for those looking for an inexpensive option to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) but are also interested in pursuing an associates degree. The program is offered in-person at the North Meridian Campus location just north of downtown Indianapolis.
The program provides education in both conceptual and technical nursing skills. In order to obtain the certificate, students must complete 45 credit hours; 12 of which are general education course credits including prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology I and English Composition I; 32 credits in nursing courses; and 1 Student Success credit. Graduates who successfully pass the NCLEX-PN exam will be eligible to obtain their LPN licensure and begin their career.
For Indiana residents who meet certain criteria such as having a high school diploma or GED/High School Equivalency, not having previously received a certificate in a Next Level Jobs eligible program or an associate degree or higher (bachelors, masters, etc.), this Practical Nursing program may be completely free through Next Level Jobs Indiana.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will have gained proficiency in various competencies that Ivy Tech outlines as Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs). These PLOs include:
- Providing quality patient-centered care
- Utilizing evidence-based practice
- Demonstrating effective communication skills with clients, families and members of the healthcare team
- Cultivating critical thinking skills to make sound judgments and decisions in complex situations while understanding the legal implications of these actions
- Working collaboratively with patients and other members of the healthcare team to create individualized plans of care based on patient assessment data and physiological/psychosocial needs
- Recognizing ethical issues inherent within medical decision making; managing care across multiple settings while maintaining safe practices throughout transitions of care
- Planning for contingencies related to client safety when implementing therapeutic interventions; demonstrating professional behaviors that demonstrate respect for diversity reflective of society’s values
Once the requirements for the Practical Nursing program are complete, graduates may apply for Ivy Tech’s LPN to ASN Transitional Track course of study if they wish to further their education. Credits earned from the Prior Nursing Certificate will “stack” into their Associate Degree so there is no need to retake any courses – making it easier for them to gain their Associate Degree faster.
General Admission Requirements:
Information Sessions:
- Prospective students must participate in a Nursing Information Session or complete an online Nursing Information Session within 3 months prior to applying.
- Completion of one Information Session fulfills the requirement for all Ivy Tech locations.
- No reservation is required.
Required Testing and Documentation:
- Complete the Knowledge Assessment if there are no previous college credits, ACT, SAT, or PSAT scores on file in the Registrar’s Office.
- Complete all required remedial courses and co-requisites prior to admission to the program.
- Score at the PROFICIENT level or higher on the ATI TEAS Test.
- Submit a copy of high school transcript or High School Equivalency Exam (GED or TASC) test scores.
High School Transcript Requirements:
- High school transcripts must include the date of graduation.
- Current high school students who will graduate after the application close but before the class starts can apply without a transcript.
- International students must provide official credential evaluation from a NACES-approved organization showing the equivalence of a U.S. high school diploma.
Prerequisite Transfer Credit:
- Students seeking transfer credit for prerequisite courses completed at other colleges must submit transcripts from other colleges to the Registrar Hub for evaluation.
- Submit external college transcripts at least one month prior to the application deadline to allow for adequate time for evaluation and processing.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| NCLEX-PN Pass Rate* | 97% |
| Cost | $6,730 |
| Program Duration | 3 semesters: 45 credit hours |
| Website | https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/school-of-nursing/nursing/#cred-2154 |
| Location | 50 W. Fall Creek Parkway N., Indianapolis, IN 46208 |
| Phone | 317-921-4800 |
| [email protected] |
*NCLEX-PN Pass Rates are from the 2020 academic year.
LPN Salaries in Indianapolis
Let’s explore the charming city of Indianapolis, Indiana, and delve into the world of LPN salaries. We’ll reference the data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to see how LPN salaries in Indianapolis stack up against the national and state averages.
According to the table, Indianapolis is home to approximately 3,780 LPNs. That’s quite a fantastic community of compassionate healthcare professionals! Now, let’s talk numbers. LPNs in Indianapolis earn an average hourly wage of $27.80, which translates to an annual salary of $57,820. That’s definitely something to celebrate!
But how does this compare to the national and state averages? Let’s take a closer look. Across the entire United States, there are about 135,500 LPNs, and on average, they earn an hourly wage of $19.51, resulting in an annual salary of $40,580. Now, let’s shift our focus to the lovely state of Indiana. In the entire state, there are approximately 11,990 LPNs, and their average hourly wage is $26.85, with an annual salary of $55,850.
When we compare LPN salaries in Indianapolis to the national average, it’s clear that LPNs in the city are earning significantly higher wages. They enjoy an hourly wage that’s around $8.29 higher and an annual salary that’s approximately $17,240 higher. That’s quite the leap!
Now, let’s discuss how LPN salaries in Indianapolis fare against the state average in Indiana. LPNs in the city earn slightly higher hourly wages, around $0.95 more, and their annual salary is approximately $1,970 higher than the state average. It’s important to note that regional factors, cost of living, and demand for healthcare professionals can influence these slight variances in salaries.
| # of LPNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| Indiana | 11,990 | $ 26.85 | $ 55,850 |
| Indianapolis | 3,780 | $ 27.80 | $ 57,820 |
Influences on LPN Salaries in Indianapolis
Several factors influence LPN salaries in Indianapolis. Here are the top three influences to consider:
- Experience and Skill Level: LPN salaries are often influenced by the level of experience and skill level of the individual. LPNs with more years of experience and advanced skills tend to earn higher salaries. Employers value the expertise and knowledge gained through years of practice, which can result in increased compensation. LPNs who have pursued additional training or obtained specialized certifications may also command higher salaries due to their enhanced skills and qualifications.
- Healthcare Setting and Demand: The specific healthcare setting in which LPNs work can impact their salaries. In Indianapolis, LPNs employed in hospitals, specialty clinics, or larger healthcare systems may receive higher wages compared to those working in long-term care facilities or smaller outpatient clinics. The demand for LPNs in different healthcare sectors can also influence salary levels. If there is a higher demand for LPNs in a particular setting, employers may offer higher wages to attract and retain qualified candidates.
- Education and Credentials: LPNs who have pursued higher education, such as an Associate’s degree in nursing, or obtained additional credentials beyond basic LPN training, may have better opportunities for career advancement and higher earning potential. Further education or specialized certifications can demonstrate advanced skills and expertise, leading to increased job responsibilities and higher salaries.