Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Arkansas? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near Arkansas, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in Arkansas to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
Arkansas Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas
RN to BSN programs in Arkansas are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.
RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in Arkansas
Bridge programs in Arkansas provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith BSN Nursing Programs in Fort Smith, Arkansas
Prepares graduates for entry-level Registered Nurse (RN) positions in various healthcare settings.
Curriculum typically includes a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and clinical experiences.
Clinical rotations often take place at local hospitals and healthcare facilities in and around Fort Smith, AR.
Focus on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care.
May offer opportunities for specialization through elective courses or clinical placements (e.g., pediatrics, critical care).
Emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills.
BSN programs often allow the option of completing the degree through a traditional four-year program or accelerated/RN-to-BSN options for individuals with prior nursing experience.
Nursing Schools in Fort Smith, Arkansas
Address: 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72913-3649
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides hands-on training in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Includes dedicated coursework, practice exams, and review sessions to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Utilizes high-fidelity simulators to provide realistic and safe learning environments for practicing essential nursing skills.
Experienced Faculty: Instruction delivered by qualified and experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, home health agencies, and other healthcare settings.
Affordable Tuition: Offers a cost-effective pathway to a rewarding career in nursing.
Nursing Schools in North Little Rock, Arkansas
Address: 3000 W Scenic Dr, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72118-3347
University of Central Arkansas Nursing Programs in Conway, Arkansas
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-child nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation through review courses, practice exams, and faculty support.
Opportunities for interprofessional collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Focus on patient-centered care, cultural sensitivity, and ethical decision-making.
Small class sizes for personalized attention and support.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Nursing Programs in Magnolia, Arkansas
Comprehensive curriculum covering medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn care, pediatrics, mental health nursing, and community health nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community agencies throughout Southern Arkansas and potentially beyond.
Focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills essential for providing safe and patient-centered care.
Dedicated faculty committed to student success through individualized attention and mentoring.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, including review courses and practice exams.
Career opportunities in a wide range of healthcare settings as a Registered Nurse.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Nursing Schools in Magnolia, Arkansas
Address: 100 E. University, Magnolia, Arkansas 71753
University of Arkansas at Little Rock BSN, LPN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Little Rock, Arkansas
BSN programs typically provide a strong foundation in nursing theory, clinical skills, and leadership. Graduates are prepared for entry-level RN positions.
LPN programs focus on practical nursing skills, allowing graduates to provide direct patient care under the supervision of RNs or physicians.
RN programs (often associated with Associate Degrees in Nursing - ADN) equip graduates with the necessary skills to administer medication, monitor patients, and collaborate with healthcare teams.
RN to BSN programs are designed for working RNs with an ADN or diploma to advance their education, enhancing their critical thinking, leadership abilities, and career opportunities.
Graduates of BSN programs are often preferred by hospitals and may have better career advancement opportunities.
Clinical rotations are a crucial component of all programs, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
These programs prepare individuals for licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) after passing the NCLEX examination.
Nursing Schools in Little Rock, Arkansas
Address: 2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff BSN, DNP, RN Nursing Programs in Pine Bluff, Arkansas
BSN programs often emphasize community health and addressing health disparities prevalent in the region.
Clinical rotations likely take place at local hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations in Pine Bluff and surrounding areas.
DNP programs aim to prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles, potentially focusing on family practice, nurse anesthesia, or psychiatric mental health.
RN programs may be offered as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at a community college that has a transfer agreement with UAPB, allowing students to bridge to a BSN.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities may be available to support students pursuing nursing education.
Curricula often integrates culturally sensitive care to address the diverse needs of the patient population.
Nursing Schools in Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Address: 1200 N University Mail Slot 4789, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville LPN, RN Nursing Programs in Batesville, Arkansas
Provides entry-level nursing education for practical nurses (LPNs).
Offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
May feature pathways or bridge programs allowing LPNs to advance their careers to become RNs.
Clinical experience is a significant component of both LPN and RN programs, typically involving placements in local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Curriculum covers essential nursing concepts, patient care skills, pharmacology, and medical ethics.
Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) or NCLEX-RN (for RNs) licensure exam.
Focus on meeting the healthcare needs of the Batesville and surrounding communities.
Nursing Schools in Batesville, Arkansas
Address: 2005 White Drive, Batesville, Arkansas 72503-3350
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice to provide safe and effective patient care.
Dedicated faculty with real-world nursing experience providing personalized instruction and mentorship.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination, including review courses, practice exams, and individualized support.
Simulation laboratory providing realistic patient care scenarios in a safe and controlled environment.
Strong focus on patient-centered care, cultural sensitivity, and ethical nursing practice.
Nursing Schools in Morrilton, Arkansas
Address: 1537 University Blvd., Morrilton, Arkansas 72110
Ouachita Baptist University BSN, DNP, RN Nursing Programs in Arkadelphia, Arkansas
Focus on Holistic Care: Nursing programs at faith-based institutions like Ouachita Baptist University often emphasize compassionate and holistic patient care, integrating faith-based values into the curriculum.
Strong Clinical Experiences: Expect significant clinical rotations at local hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Arkadelphia area and potentially beyond, providing hands-on experience.
Small Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes, common at universities like Ouachita Baptist, allow for more personalized attention from faculty and enhanced learning opportunities.
RN-BSN Completion Programs: An RN-BSN completion program would provide a pathway for registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
BSN Program Emphasis: The BSN program typically focuses on providing a solid foundation in nursing theory, practice, leadership, and research.
Potential DNP Specializations: If a DNP program exists or is being developed, it likely includes specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), or leadership roles.
Career Advancement: These programs prepare graduates for various career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, community health organizations, schools, and more.
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas ADN, LPN, PNP, RN Nursing Programs in Helena, Arkansas
LPN Program: Focuses on foundational nursing skills, patient care fundamentals, and prepares graduates for practical nursing roles under the supervision of RNs or physicians. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam.
ADN Program: A two-year program equipping students with skills to provide direct patient care, administer medications, and collaborate with healthcare teams. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
RN Program (Often Built upon ADN): The RN designation typically implies holding at least an ADN and passing the NCLEX-RN. RNs perform more complex assessments, develop care plans, and supervise other healthcare staff. Phillips likely has an ADN program allowing students to become RNs after passing the NCLEX-RN.
PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner): While a community college might not offer the full PNP program, they could offer pre-requisite courses that are needed before applying to a MSN or DNP program to become a PNP. A PNP requires a master's or doctoral degree in nursing and specialized training in pediatrics. It's unlikely that Phillips Community College directly offers a complete PNP program.
Career Opportunities: Nursing graduates can find employment in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare agencies, and other healthcare settings. The specific role depends on the level of nursing education achieved.
Local Healthcare Needs: Nursing programs in rural areas like Helena, AR, are vital in addressing local healthcare needs by training professionals who understand the community's specific challenges and demographics.
South Arkansas Community College BSN Nursing Programs in El Dorado, Arkansas
Prepares students for entry-level professional nursing positions in various healthcare settings.
Emphasizes critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based practice.
May require completion of prerequisite courses in science, math, and humanities before admission to the nursing program.
Clinical experiences are typically integrated throughout the program, providing hands-on learning in hospitals, clinics, and community health agencies.
Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs).
Often includes courses on medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child nursing, psychiatric-mental health nursing, and community health nursing.
May offer opportunities for specialized learning experiences, such as simulations or preceptorships.
Nursing Schools in El Dorado, Arkansas
Address: 300 S West Ave, El Dorado, Arkansas 71731-7010
National Park College Nursing Programs in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, and maternal-child nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Experienced and dedicated faculty committed to student success and providing personalized support.
State-of-the-art simulation labs to enhance clinical skills and critical thinking in a safe and controlled environment.
Focus on preparing students to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and become licensed registered nurses.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and quality improvement.
Opportunities to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and effective communication abilities.
Nursing Schools in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Address: 101 College Dr, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913
NorthWest Arkansas Community College Nursing Programs in Bentonville, Arkansas
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal-child nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills essential for safe and competent nursing practice.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination through dedicated review courses, practice exams, and faculty mentorship.
Emphasis on patient-centered care, ethical decision-making, and cultural sensitivity.
State-of-the-art simulation labs provide realistic training scenarios for students to practice skills and build confidence.
Strong career outlook with high demand for Registered Nurses in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.
Nursing Schools in Bentonville, Arkansas
Address: One College Drive, Bentonville, Arkansas 72712-5091
Harding University Nursing Programs in Searcy, Arkansas
Comprehensive curriculum covering medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and community health nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community agencies.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for safe and effective nursing practice.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including review courses, practice exams, and individualized support.
Opportunities for hands-on learning in state-of-the-art simulation labs.
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in Arkansas and across the nation.
Nursing Schools in Searcy, Arkansas
Address: 915 E. Market Ave., Searcy, Arkansas 72149-5615
John Brown University MSN, Pre-Nursing, RN Nursing Programs in Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Focus on Christian Values: Integrating faith into nursing practice, reflecting the university's mission.
Small Class Sizes: Potential for personalized attention from experienced faculty, a common benefit in smaller universities.
Emphasis on Practical Skills: Clinical rotations and hands-on experiences to prepare students for real-world nursing scenarios.
Pre-Nursing as Foundation: The Pre-Nursing track prepares students for eventual entry into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, possibly at a different institution if JBU doesn't offer a full BSN.
MSN Options: A Master of Science in Nursing may focus on areas like Nurse Leadership or Education.
RN to BSN Completion: If JBU partners with other institutions, they might offer a pathway for RNs to complete their BSN.
Community Focus: Nursing programs may incorporate service-learning opportunities within the local Siloam Springs community.
Nursing Schools in Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Address: 2000 W University St, Siloam Springs, Arkansas 72761
Arkansas State University Accelerated BSN, BSN, LPN, Nursing Certificate Nursing Programs in Jonesboro, Arkansas
Multiple Entry Points: Programs cater to various educational backgrounds, from those with prior bachelor's degrees (Accelerated BSN) to those seeking entry-level practical nursing (LPN, Nursing Certificate).
Career Advancement: Each program provides a pathway to advance within the nursing profession, allowing individuals to progress from LPN to RN (BSN) and beyond.
Clinical Experience: All programs emphasize hands-on clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations, throughout Northeast Arkansas.
Focus on Patient Care: Coursework covers fundamental nursing principles, patient assessment, pharmacology, and disease management, preparing graduates to provide safe and effective patient care.
NCLEX Preparation: Curriculum is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN (for BSN and Accelerated BSN) or NCLEX-PN (for LPN) licensure exams.
Faculty Expertise: Instruction is provided by experienced nursing faculty who are committed to student success.
Simulation Labs: Utilize modern simulation labs to enhance skills in a realistic, risk-free environment.
Nursing Schools in Jonesboro, Arkansas
Address: 2105 E. Aggie Road, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401
Arkansas State University Three Rivers Nursing Programs in Malvern, Arkansas
Comprehensive curriculum covering nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric/mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health agencies throughout southern Arkansas.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice to provide safe and effective patient care.
Dedicated faculty with real-world nursing experience, committed to student success.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination through integrated review materials, practice tests, and individualized support.
Opportunities to participate in student nursing organizations and community outreach activities.
Strong job placement rates for graduates within the Arkansas healthcare system and beyond.
Nursing Schools in Malvern, Arkansas
Address: One College Circle, Malvern, Arkansas 72104-0816
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Arkansas?
Nursing schools in Arkansas offer various programs, including:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.
2. How do I choose the best nursing school in Arkansas?
When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).
3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.
4. How do I check if a nursing program in Arkansas is accredited?
You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in Arkansas.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
The duration depends on the type of program:
CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.
6. Can I complete a nursing program online?
Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.
7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?
The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.
8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?
Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.
9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in Arkansas?
Nurses in Arkansas can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.
10. How much do nurses earn in Arkansas?
Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:
CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.