Fall is a special time at the Indiana University School of Nursing, and this year is no exception. Our campuses are full of vigor and excitement as we welcome new and returning students.  There is one thing that does set this semester apart - we achieved a new record. 

For our fall 2023 semester, we welcomed 381 new nursing students to our undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing program – the largest cohort in the school’s 109-year history. There are 120 newly admitted students in Bloomington, 169 in Indianapolis, and 92 in Fort Wayne. These new students join our returning students for a total of 1,335 undergraduate students across all three campuses. 

We couldn’t be more excited to welcome this record-breaking class, as well as our returning students. All our undergraduates bring enthusiasm about the profession of nursing and an eagerness to explore this first step in their professional journey.  While at IU School of Nursing, they become critical thinkers, investigate new and better ways to provide care, and generate innovative ideas that will shape the future of health and healthcare.  

After graduation, 95% of IU School of Nursing graduates will apply for licensure in the state of Indiana. This is significant as we know a nursing shortage currently exists nationwide, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing expects that shortage to increase as the Baby Boomer generation prepares for retirement and the need for healthcare grows. 

Although this increase in our enrollment won’t completely solve the shortage, it can – and will – help, and we’re proud to be part of the solution. On behalf of our students, faculty, and staff, I thank you for your continued support of the IU School of Nursing and for your vital role in our nation’s healthcare system.