Top Arkansas Nursing Schools and Programs

Choosing the most suitable program from the diverse array of private and state nursing programs in Arkansas can be challenging. This guide helps in identifying the program that aligns with individual career and personal goals.
To help you choose the best fit, we rank the top nursing schools in Arkansas, considering key factors such as academic quality, affordability, and reputation. The ranking process includes the evaluation of programs like RN to BSN programs in Arkansas and other specialized nursing tracks. We use a data-driven approach, relying on critical metrics such as NCLEX-RN pass rates and overall program offerings. This data is sourced from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), ensuring accuracy and up-to-date information.

Many nursing schools in Arkansas offer flexible programs, including online nursing programs in Arkansas, making it easier for students to balance their studies with personal responsibilities. These online options include some of the best online nursing programs in Arkansas, which are ideal for students seeking a flexible, high-quality education.

Top Nursing Schools and Programs in Arkansas

1. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Nursing
   • Location: Little Rock, AR
   • Website: https://nursing.uams.edu
   • Description: The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Nursing is one of the leading nursing schools in Arkansas, offering BSN, MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing programs. The college is renowned for its clinical excellence, cutting-edge research, and leadership in healthcare innovation. UAMS provides a comprehensive BSN program that prepares students for a successful nursing career with a strong focus on clinical practice and evidence-based care. The advanced practice MSN and DNP programs allow students to specialize in areas like Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, and Nurse Leadership. The college’s partnerships with top healthcare facilities like UAMS Medical Center offer students extensive hands-on training and research opportunities.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $16,000 per year (undergraduate, in-state)
   • Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, Ph.D. in Nursing
   • Specializations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Leadership
2. Arkansas State University College of Nursing and Health Professions
   • Location: Jonesboro, AR
   • Website: https://www.astate.edu/nursing
   • Description: Arkansas State University (ASU) College of Nursing and Health Professions offers a robust BSN and MSN program designed to meet the growing healthcare needs in Arkansas. The BSN program at ASU combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience, preparing students for a range of nursing roles. The MSN program offers Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator tracks, providing advanced clinical training and leadership skills. The College of Nursing at ASU is committed to fostering student success through high-quality education and clinical placements in local hospitals and healthcare facilities. ASU also offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, which prepares nurses for leadership roles in clinical and healthcare systems.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $8,500 per year (undergraduate, in-state)
   • Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
   • Specializations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator
3. University of Central Arkansas College of Nursing
   • Location: Conway, AR
   • Website: https://www.uca.edu/nursing
   • Description: The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) College of Nursing offers a range of nursing programs, including the BSN, MSN, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). UCA’s BSN program provides students with a solid foundation in nursing, emphasizing both theoretical learning and hands-on clinical experience. The MSN program offers several advanced practice specializations, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator. The DNP program prepares nurses for leadership roles in advanced clinical practice, policy, and healthcare systems management. UCA’s clinical partnerships with top hospitals and healthcare providers in the state ensure that students receive real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $9,500 per year (undergraduate, in-state)
   • Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
   • Specializations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator
4. Hendrix College Department of Nursing
   • Location: Conway, AR
   • Website: https://www.hendrix.edu/nursing
   • Description: Hendrix College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to provide students with the clinical and academic knowledge needed to excel as professional nurses. Hendrix’s program is known for its personalized approach, providing students with smaller class sizes and hands-on learning experiences in collaboration with local hospitals and healthcare facilities. The college’s commitment to liberal arts education ensures that students gain not only technical nursing skills but also critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities. Hendrix College’s graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and a successful career in various nursing roles.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $48,000 per year (undergraduate)
   • Programs: BSN
   • Specializations: None
5. Southern Arkansas University School of Nursing
   • Location: Magnolia, AR
   • Website: https://www.saumag.edu/nursing
   • Description: Southern Arkansas University (SAU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that focuses on preparing students for entry-level nursing positions through a blend of classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program is designed to develop both technical and critical thinking skills necessary for patient care. SAU partners with local hospitals to provide students with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring that graduates are ready to deliver compassionate care in a variety of healthcare settings. SAU’s affordable tuition and commitment to student success make it a great option for aspiring nurses.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $6,500 per year (undergraduate, in-state)
   • Programs: BSN
   • Specializations: None
6. University of Arkansas at Little Rock School of Nursing
   • Location: Little Rock, AR
   • Website: https://ualr.edu/nursing
   • Description: The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) School of Nursing offers a comprehensive BSN program that prepares students for successful careers in nursing. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience, which is crucial for developing clinical competence and critical thinking skills. UALR’s program emphasizes cultural competency and patient-centered care, preparing nurses to work with diverse populations. UALR also offers an RN-to-BSN program, making it an excellent choice for registered nurses seeking to further their education. Graduates are well-equipped to pass the NCLEX-RN and succeed in various nursing roles.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $7,200 per year (undergraduate, in-state)
   • Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN
   • Specializations: None
7. Harding University Carr College of Nursing
   • Location: Searcy, AR
   • Website: https://www.harding.edu/nursing
   • Description: Harding University’s Carr College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that emphasizes Christian values, clinical excellence, and leadership. The program integrates classroom instruction with clinical practice, preparing students for successful nursing careers in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Harding’s BSN program is known for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to producing compassionate, patient-centered nurses. The college also offers an RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. Harding’s small class sizes ensure personalized attention and strong faculty support.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $21,000 per year (undergraduate)
   • Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN
   • Specializations: None
8. University of Ozarks School of Nursing
   • Location: Clarksville, AR
   • Website: https://www.ozarks.edu
   • Description: The University of Ozarks offers a BSN program that prepares students to become skilled, compassionate nurses through a combination of liberal arts education and nursing expertise. The program focuses on evidence-based practice, clinical competence, and leadership in patient care. University of Ozarks’ nursing students gain clinical experience through partnerships with healthcare facilities in the region, ensuring they are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN and successful nursing careers. The nursing faculty provide individualized attention to students, offering mentorship and support throughout their educational journey.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $28,000 per year (undergraduate)
   • Programs: BSN
   • Specializations: None
9. Philander Smith College Department of Nursing
   • Location: Little Rock, AR
   • Website: https://www.philander.edu
   • Description: Philander Smith College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students to enter the nursing profession with strong clinical skills and a commitment to compassionate care. The program is grounded in liberal arts education, promoting critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills. The college partners with local healthcare organizations for clinical placements, giving students real-world experience in various patient care settings. Philander Smith College’s commitment to diversity and community service provides students with opportunities to make a meaningful impact on healthcare in Arkansas.
   • Accreditation: CCNE
   • Tuition: Approx. $15,000 per year (undergraduate)
   • Programs: BSN
   • Specializations: None
10. Northwest Arkansas Community College Nursing Program

• Location: Bentonville, AR
• Website: https://www.nwacc.edu
• Description: Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) program, designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experiences that equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality care in a variety of healthcare settings. The AAS program is an excellent option for students seeking a cost-effective way to enter the nursing profession. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and can pursue further education in an RN-to-BSN program if desired.
• Accreditation: ACEN
• Tuition: Approx. $3,000 per year (in-state)
• Programs: AAS in Nursing
• Specializations: None

These 10 nursing programs in Arkansas offer a variety of pathways for aspiring nurses, from entry-level AAS programs to advanced practice roles in MSN and DNP tracks. Whether you’re just beginning your nursing career or looking to further your education, Arkansas offers high-quality nursing schools that provide excellent clinical training, a supportive learning environment, and diverse career opportunities.

Best Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Programs

If you’re looking to advance your nursing career further, Nurse Practitioner programs in Arkansas are an excellent option. These programs typically require a Master’s in Nursing (MSN) or higher, and several schools in Arkansas offer specialized Nurse Practitioner programs.

The rankings for best Nurse Practitioner programs in Arkansas rely on publicly available data from IPEDS, ensuring the information is up to date. If you’re considering advancing your career, look into schools that offer comprehensive training, clinical experience, and high NCLEX pass rates.

Best Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Programs

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Arkansas

When evaluating nursing programs in Arkansas, there are several factors to consider to ensure you’re choosing the right path:

1. Tuition and Financial Aid: The cost of your nursing education is a crucial factor. Look into options like nursing scholarships in Arkansas to help offset costs. Many programs also offer financial aid, and nursing schools in Little Rock might provide additional resources.
2. Accreditation: Always choose accredited nursing programs in Arkansas to ensure that your degree will meet state licensure requirements and be recognized nationwide.
3. Program Format: Consider the online nursing programs in Arkansas, which allow students to complete coursework remotely, often while working in their current job. These programs are ideal for individuals seeking a flexible schedule.
4. NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: The NCLEX-RN pass rate is a good indicator of a program’s quality. The higher the pass rate, the more likely you are to pass the licensing exam and enter the workforce as a licensed RN.

This guide exclusively highlights accredited nursing programs in Arkansas, so you can rest assured that your education will meet the state’s licensure requirements.

Why Become a Nurse in Arkansas?

Arkansas is a great state to begin a nursing career. As a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, Arkansas enables nurses to obtain a multistate license that is valid in 37 states. The demand for nurses in Arkansas is expected to grow by 13.5% from 2018 to 2028, outpacing the national growth rate. Many of Arkansas’ rural areas are medically underserved, which means that nurses who work in these regions may qualify for additional financial incentives, such as loan forgiveness programs and scholarships through the Arkansas Nurses Foundation.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Arkansas

Arkansas’s cost of living index is 90.9, significantly below the national index of 100. While the average RN salary in the state is $63,640 (below the national median of $75,330), the average nurse practitioner salary is $106,210 (compared to the national median of $111,680). Despite the lower average salaries, the state’s cost of living means that the income goes further than in many other parts of the country.

The projected job growth for RNs in Arkansas is 13.5% from 2018 to 2028, exceeding the national projection of 9%. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services foresees a surplus of 9,800 nurses in Arkansas from 2014 to 2030. Arkansas being an NLC state, coupled with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare, attending nursing school in the state could open up numerous job opportunities.

Little Rock, as the largest metropolitan area in Arkansas, offers the highest average RN salaries, while unincorporated areas provide lower salaries, all under $60,000. Many areas in Arkansas, being MUAs, are eligible for state programs offering loan forgiveness for nurses, as outlined by the Arkansas Department of Health.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Arkansas

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Average Salary for RNs
Little Rock — North Little Rock — Conway	$69,060
Fayetteville — Springdale — Rogers	$63,830
Pine Bluff	$62,310
Jonesboro	$62,080
Hot Springs	$62,030

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2020

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Arkansas

To obtain an RN license in any state, one must graduate from nursing school, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and undergo a background check. For advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), having an RN license, obtaining board certification, and passing a background check are prerequisites. Arkansas has additional requirements for APRNs.

RN Requirements

Similar to all states, obtaining licensure as an RN involves completing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program and passing the NCLEX-RN. If attending nursing school in Arkansas and eligible to apply for licensure by examination, one should submit an application to the state board of nursing approximately 60 days before graduation.

APRN Requirements

To secure an APRN license, one needs a master of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice, along with board certification. A criminal background check and an unencumbered RN license are also prerequisites. The state board of nursing mandates a minimum of 2,000 hours of RN experience for APRN licensure. Most APRN nursing schools in Arkansas require or strongly recommend a minimum of 2,000 hours for admission, enabling most graduates to apply immediately. APRNs must submit a separate application for prescribing authority.

What is the salary range for nurses in Arkansas?

According to the BLS, RN salaries in Arkansas range from $44,660-$82,480, with an average salary of $63,640. NP salaries range from $82,810-$135,020, with an average $106,210 salary.

How many licensed nurses are in Arkansas?

There are 25,300 licensed RNs in Arkansas and 2,730 NPs. Additionally, there are 13,128 licensed practical nurses, 4,551 APRNs, and 55 licensed psychiatric technician nurses, totaling approximately 181.5 nurses per 10,000 in the population, according to the Arkansas Department of Health.

How long does it take to become a nurse in Arkansas?

It takes around two years to earn an ADN and four years to earn a BSN. The processing time for a license varies, but individuals can apply to the state board of nursing for a temporary license for an additional fee.

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate in Arkansas?

The NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Arkansas is 82.3%, compared to the national rate of 84.4%. BSN nursing programs in Arkansas generally have a higher pass rate than ADN programs.

Nursing Salaries and Job Outlook in Arkansas

While the average RN salary in Arkansas is slightly lower than the national average, the state’s lower cost of living makes the compensation more than adequate for many residents. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Average RN Salary in Arkansas: $63,640
• Average Nurse Practitioner Salary in Arkansas: $106,210

Despite the average RN salary being below the national median of $75,330, Arkansas’s cost of living index of 90.9 (national average = 100) ensures that these salaries stretch further than they would in other states. The state also offers significant job growth for RNs, with a projected increase of 13.5% in nursing jobs from 2018 to 2028, which is above the national average.

Highest Paying Nursing Jobs in Arkansas

The highest-paying nursing jobs in Arkansas are concentrated in urban areas like Little Rock, which offers the best salaries. Here’s a look at the highest-paying cities for nurses in Arkansas:

• Little Rock—North Little Rock—Conway: $69,060
• Fayetteville—Springdale—Rogers: $63,830
• Pine Bluff: $62,310
• Jonesboro: $62,080
• Hot Springs: $62,030

Top-paying nursing jobs in Little Rock and other major metropolitan areas offer competitive salaries for both RNs and Nurse Practitioners. However, rural areas in Arkansas tend to have lower salaries, though they often offer loan forgiveness programs for nurses working in medically underserved areas.

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Arkansas

Becoming a nurse in Arkansas requires meeting specific educational and licensing requirements. Here’s how you can start:

1. Graduate from an Accredited Program: You must graduate from an accredited nursing program in Arkansas, such as an ADN, BSN, or even an RN to BSN program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: To become a registered nurse, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN, which is required for licensure.
3. Apply for Licensure: After graduating, submit your application for licensure to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. The process can be completed in as little as 60 days before graduation.
4. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Requirements: If you’re interested in becoming an APRN, you must first have an RN license, complete an MSN or DNP, and pass board certification exams.

Nursing Scholarships and Financial Aid in Arkansas

There are many opportunities for nursing scholarships in Arkansas, especially for those pursuing higher degrees or entering areas of high need. The Arkansas Nurses Foundation provides financial aid for nursing students who are committed to working in underserved communities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden and encourage students to pursue nursing careers in areas where their skills are most needed.

Nursing Career Opportunities and Growth in Arkansas

Nursing is a growing field in Arkansas, with significant opportunities for career advancement. Nursing career growth in Arkansas is expected to increase by 13.5%, which is much higher than the national average. As a result, nurses in the state can expect a growing number of job openings, especially in rural areas that face shortages of healthcare workers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Arkansas

What is the salary range for nurses in Arkansas?

The salary for registered nurses in Arkansas ranges from $44,660 to $82,480, with an average salary of $63,640. For Nurse Practitioners, salaries range from $82,810 to $135,020, with an average of $106,210.

How long does it take to become a nurse in Arkansas?

It takes about two years to complete an ADN program and four years for a BSN program. You can apply for a temporary license through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing while you wait for your RN license to be processed.

What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate in Arkansas?

The NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Arkansas is 82.3%, which is slightly below the national average of 84.4%. BSN programs in Arkansas generally have higher pass rates compared to ADN programs.