If you reside in Indianapolis and seek higher education, considering programs in nursing may be a suitable option. Healthcare makes up a prominent sector in Indianapolis; it is expected to provide numerous employment opportunities in the years to come. There are a number of nursing schools in Indianapolis that prepare students for the healthcare challenges of tomorrow. Statistics show that demand for nurses in the city is expected to grow in future (between 2012 and 2022).
Nursing Schools in Indianapolis
Offering a range of learning opportunities, the nursing schools offer both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These programs enable students to learn nursing care and become familiar with safe healthcare practices. In addition to degree programs, students could pursue certificate or diplomas in nursing. Certificate programs may be suitable for students who already hold a degree in nursing and want to gain additional credentials for career improvement.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses (RN) typically take one of three education paths:
- A bachelor's degree in nursing
- An associate’s degree in nursing
- A diploma in nursing
Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
A bachelor’s degree in nursing generally takes 4 years of full time study. Covering a range of topics, these programs enable students to learn about nursing practices, and find out how to provide safe nursing care to patients in diverse settings. Anatomy, physiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and more are what students in the bachelor’s programs study; and they usually complete supervised clinical instruction. In addition, students may also receive instruction in the physical and social sciences, communication, leadership, and critical thinking. The BLS noted that a bachelor’s degree could be useful for administrative positions, teaching, consulting, and research.
Associate’s Degree in Nursing
Students who seek foundational knowledge in nursing could enroll in an associate’s degree program, and these programs generally take about 2 years of full time study to complete. The exact duration of the program varies by factors such as the enrollment status of the students. The program will include instruction in a variety of topics such as anatomy, chemistry, physiology, nutrition, and psychology, and will include practical experience.
Master’s Degree in Nursing
The master’s degree programs are also offered at nursing schools. The BLS notes that the certified nurse specialists (CNS) need to earn a master’s degree in nursing, while CNSs who conduct research generally require a PhD degree.
Financial Aid for Indianapolis Nursing Students
Students who cannot afford to pay for their educational expenses may apply for financial aid. Eligible students may benefit from funds in the form of grants, loans, and scholarships:
- IHC Foundation Scholarship
- Indiana Legion Auxiliary past Presidents Parley Nursing Scholarship
- Pell grants
- Federal student loans
- Indiana Nursing Scholarship Fund Program
Career Outlook for Indianapolis Nurses
There were about 59,270 registered nurses in the state of Indiana in 2012, according to data from O*Net OnLine. The demand for nurses in the state is expected to be about 2,200 RNs a year between 2012 and 2022.
Nurses in Indianapolis generally work in hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, and other healthcare settings. In 2013, the median annual pay for RNs in the state was $57,400 (O*Net OnLine).