Top Arkansas Nursing Schools and Programs

Top Arkansas Nursing Schools and Programs

There are over 40 state-approved nursing schools in Arkansas, and being a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state allows graduates to seek a multistate license, valid in 37 participating states. This guide delves into the prominent nursing programs in Arkansas, details on salaries and job prospects for nurses in the state, and the process of obtaining an Arkansas nursing license.

In Arkansas, residents benefit from a lower cost of living and a favorable job growth rate for registered nurses (RNs). The comprehensive guide outlines the best nursing programs in the state, the application process for nursing licenses, and typical salary brackets, including insights into the cities offering the highest RN salaries in Arkansas.

The Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas

Choosing the most suitable program from the diverse array of private and state nursing programs in Arkansas can be challenging. This guide aids in identifying the program aligning with individual career and personal objectives.

Ranking Method: Utilizing a data-driven approach, we rank the best nursing schools in Arkansas, facilitating an easier selection process for prospective students. The methodology relies on crucial metrics such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Data is sourced from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), ensuring the information is current as of the article’s publication date. Specific program details may vary.

1. Harding University

– Location: Searcy, AR
– Duration: 4 years
– Delivery: Online + Campus

Harding University, grounded in Christian principles, provides a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a hybrid accelerated BSN for undergraduates. Additionally, they offer Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) tracks. Graduate students can choose between an MSN-master’s entry into professional nursing or an MSN-family nurse practitioner. These programs prepare students for licensing and certification exams.

– Programs: BSN; MSN
– Campus: Searcy, AR
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: $750 per credit hour (undergraduate); $783-$1,131 per credit hour (graduate)
– Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or RN license (depending on track); online application; transcripts
– Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.2%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,220 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition (In-state): $21,000
– Average Undergrad Tuition (Out-of-state): $21,000
– Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $11,388
– Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $11,388
– Retention Rate: 87%
– Admission Rate: 55%
– Students Enrolled: 4,617
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 24%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

2. Ouachita Baptist University

– Location: Arkadelphia, AR
– Duration: 4 years
– Delivery: Online + Campus

Ouachita Baptist University, with a focus on liberal arts, offers three pathways to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): an on-campus, four-year BSN; an online RN-to-BSN; and a dual-enrolled nursing associate/BSN partnership at OBU and Baptist Health College Little Rock. BSN courses cover community health, healthcare pathophysiology, leadership and management, and transcultural nursing.

– Programs: BSN; RN-to-BSN
– Campus: Arkadelphia, AR
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
– Tuition: $15,250 per year; $275 per credit hour RN-to-BSN
– Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; online application; transcripts; RN license for RN-to-BSN
– Minimum Time Commitment: 9-12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Average Undergrad Tuition (In-state): $28,480
– Average Undergrad Tuition (Out-of-state): $28,480
– Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $13,500
– Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $13,500
– Retention Rate: 81%
– Admission Rate: 62%
– Students Enrolled: 1,704
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 14%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

3. Ozarka College

– Location: Melbourne, AR
– Duration: 2 years
– Delivery: Online + Campus

Ozarka College provides associate degrees and certificates, including an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in registered nursing for licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The curriculum covers nursing process, NCLEX-RN preparation, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology. The 66-credit program includes evening lectures and clinical practicums on weekends. Ozarka also offers LPN and nursing assistant certificates.

– Programs: AAS (LPN-to-RN)
– Campus: Melbourne, AR
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
– Tuition: $90 per credit hour (in-state); $188 per credit hour (out-of-state)
– Admission Requirements: LPN credential; high school or GED transcript; online application
– Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,730 for associate graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition (In-state): $2,160
– Average Undergrad Tuition (Out-of-state): $4,512
– Retention Rate: 57%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 1,033
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 67%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

4. University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain

– Location: Mena, AR
– Duration: 2 years
– Delivery: Campus

Students at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain can choose from several associate degrees, including an AAS in registered nursing for LPNs. The program includes interactive video courses in the evenings and clinical hours on the weekends. Certificate options at UA Rich Mountain include practical nursing and nursing assistant.

– Programs: AAS (LPN-to-RN)
– Campus: Mena, AR
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
– Tuition: $99 per credit hour (in-district); $114 per credit hour (out-of-district); $147 per credit hour (out-of-state)
– Admission Requirements: LPN license; 2.5 GPA in general education courses; high school or GED transcript; NLN nursing entrance exam scores
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: No
– Average Undergrad Tuition (In-state): $2,328
– Average Undergrad Tuition (Out-of-state): $2,568
– Retention Rate: 65%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 798
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 70%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

5. University of Arkansas

– Location: Fayetteville, AR
– Duration: 4 years
– Delivery: Online + Campus

Hosting a premier nursing school in Arkansas, the University of Arkansas Fayetteville offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including a traditional BSN and bridge programs for RNs and LPNs. MSN students focus on becoming nurse educators, while Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree-seekers concentrate on clinical practice.

– Programs: BSN; LPN-to-BSN; RN-to-BSN; MSN; DNP
– Campus: Fayetteville, AR
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Tuition: $302-$964 per credit hour (undergraduate); $438-$1,190 per credit hour (graduate)
– Admission Requirements:
– BSN: transcripts; 3.0 GPA; personal statement; interview
– LPN-to-BSN: current license; graduate of accredited LPN program; 2,000 hours of work experience
– RN-to-BSN: RN license; AAS or diploma program; 1,000 hours of work experience or clinical proficiency score
– MSN: BSN from accredited program; RN license; coursework in health assessment and statistics
– DNP: graduate of accredited nursing program; 3.0 GPA; RN license; GRE scores
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes (traditional BSN only)
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.1%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,310 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition (In-state): $7,568
– Average Undergrad Tuition (Out-of-state): $24,056
– Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $7,752
– Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $21,032
– Retention Rate: 85%
– Admission Rate: 78%
– Students Enrolled: 27,562
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 97%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

6. East Arkansas Community College

– Location: Forrest City, AR
– Duration: 2 years
– Delivery: Online + Campus

East Arkansas Community College offers an AAS-to-RN degree. The 62-credit curriculum includes courses in anatomy and physiology, clinical applications of medical surgical nursing, fundamentals of nursing, and mental health nursing. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) can earn their degree through an accelerated track. EACC also provides training for LPNs and nursing assistants.

– Programs: AAS (LPN-to-RN)
– Campus: Forrest City, AR
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
– Tuition: $88 per credit hour (in-county); $98 per credit hour (out-of-county); $118 per credit hour (out-of-state)
– Admission Requirements: Nursing application; official transcripts; 2.8 GPA; HESI exam scores; for LPN-to-RN an LPN license and work experience for those six months past graduation
– Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 63.6%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,320 for associate graduates (according to College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition (In-state): $2,880
– Average Undergrad Tuition (Out-of-state): $3,450
– Retention Rate: 52%
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 934
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 63%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

#7 Arkansas State University-Main Campus

Arkansas State University-Main Campus, located in Jonesboro, Arkansas, offers diverse nursing programs providing flexibility with online and on-campus learning options. Students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). The MSN program allows specialization in nurse practitioner, nurse administration, or nurse educator tracks. Additionally, the university offers advanced degrees like Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a doctorate in nurse anesthesia.

Programs Offered: AASN; LPN-to-AASN; RN-to-AASN; BSN; RN-to-BSN; MSN; DNP
Campus: Jonesboro, AR
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Programs
Tuition:
– Undergraduate: $218 per credit hour for in-state and online students; $450 per credit hour for out-of-state students; $265 for accelerated tracks
– MSN: $277 per credit hour for in-state and online students; $554 per credit hour for out-of-state students
– DNP: $333 per credit hour
– DNP-nurse anesthesia: $10,000 per fall and spring semesters; $5,000 for the summer semester
Admission Requirements: Degree or diploma (varies by program); RN license/certification (except for traditional AASN and BSN); transcripts
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes for on-campus programs and immersions
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,770 for associate graduates, $58,140 for bachelor’s graduates, and $135,610 for master’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $5,232
– Out-of-state: $10,800
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $4,986
– Out-of-state: $9,972
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 67%
Students Enrolled: 13,106
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 75%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#8 University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton

The University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton, situated in Morrilton, Arkansas, specializes in technical, professional, and health-related programs. UACCM offers a comprehensive RN program for LPNs leading to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The program comprises 66 credits, including nursing process coursework and clinical practicums. UACCM also provides options for a nursing assistant certificate, an LPN program, and, in collaboration with the University of Central Arkansas, an RN-to-BSN program.

Programs Offered: AAS (LPN-to-RN)
Campus: Morrilton, AR
Type: Public
Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $92 per credit hour for in-county students; $102 per credit hour for out-of-county students; $130 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: LPN license; ACT score of 15 or ACCUPLACER score of 230; NACE score of 60; high school or GED and college transcripts; 2.5 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,290 for associate graduates (according to College Scorecard)
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $2,448
– Out-of-state: $3,120
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 59%
Admission Rate: 100%
Students Enrolled: 1,836
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 47%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#9 Arkansas State University-Mountain Home

Arkansas State University-Mountain Home, located in Mountain Home, Arkansas, is committed to providing affordable and accessible education. The institution offers a bridge program for LPNs and paramedics to obtain their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in registered nursing. This 60-credit program combines online learning, in-person instruction, and clinical hours. ASUMH also provides certificates for nursing assistants, LPNs, and pre-nursing.

Programs Offered: AAS – LPN/paramedic-to-RN
Campus: Mountain Home, AR
Type: Public
Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $98 per credit hour for in-state students; $165 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: HESI and ACCUPLACER reading scores; a “C” in prerequisites; cumulative 2.5 GPA; LPN or EMT-P license
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.9% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $47,260 for associate graduates (according to College Scorecard)
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $2,352
– Out-of-state: $3,972
Average Graduate Tuition: Not provided
Retention Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,271
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 65%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#10 Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, is a regional institution offering a 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The curriculum includes nursing research for evidence-based practice, leadership and management, and pharmacology. SAU emphasizes experiential learning through its simulation lab and community healthcare facilities, focusing on areas like acute care, community health, maternal/newborn, and pediatrics.

Programs Offered: BSN
Campus: Magnolia, AR
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $225 per credit hour for in-state students; $399 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school or GED transcripts; HESI exam scores; 2.0 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.3% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,150 for bachelor’s graduates (according to College Scorecard)
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $6,420
– Out-of-state: $11,460
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $5,112
– Out-of-state: $8,028
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 69%
Students Enrolled: 4,432
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 86%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

Best Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Programs

The rankings are based on publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), ensuring the data’s relevance as of the article’s publication date. Please note that program-specific information may vary.

#1 Top Arkansas Nursing Schools and Programs

Harding University
Location: Searcy, AR
Duration: 4 years
Mode: Online + Campus

Harding University is dedicated to preparing individuals with a bachelor’s degree in nursing for career advancement and various opportunities. Renowned for its leadership in graduate education, the university offers 30 master’s degrees, including the MSN family nurse practitioner program. This program caters to nursing students aspiring for a traditional graduate school experience.

The faculty at Harding University possesses extensive experience in teaching graduate education, serving as both instructors and mentors. The program adopts a comprehensive approach, exploring the subject from multiple perspectives and integrating practical and theoretical instruction to foster a profound understanding of the field. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue high-level positions, transition careers, or opt for a terminal degree.

An appealing aspect of this institution is its affordability. With a yearly cost of approximately $13,372 for both Arkansas residents and out-of-state students, the university prioritizes accessible education. The school provides support for exploring financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, to assist students in financing their degrees. Enrollees can collaborate with staff from academic advising and career services departments to chart their academic and professional paths.

Average Tuition Rates
– In-state Undergraduate: $20,010
– Out-of-state Undergraduate: $20,010
– In-state Graduate: $13,372
– Out-of-state Graduate: $13,372

Statistics
– Retention Rate: 85%
– Admission Rate: 61%
– Total Students Enrolled: 4,879
– Institution Type: Private
– Percentage of Online Enrollment: 12%
– Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Arkansas

When evaluating different nursing programs in Arkansas, considerations should encompass tuition and associated costs, the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rate (indicative of program quality), and admission requirements.

Financial aid options, program format (especially for online nursing schools), clinical placement support, and curriculum are also crucial factors. This guide exclusively highlights accredited programs, emphasizing the importance of nursing accreditation in achieving one’s educational goals.

Why Become a Nurse in Arkansas

Arkansas operates as an Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, enabling students attending nursing school in the state to obtain a multistate license. The projected growth of RN jobs in the state is 13.5% from 2018 to 2028. Given that many counties in Arkansas are medically underserved areas (MUAs), nurses working in these regions can receive scholarships or loan forgiveness. The Arkansas Nurses Foundation provides additional scholarship opportunities.

Despite its predominantly rural settings, Arkansas offers the attractions of major cities like Little Rock and Bentonville, known for their burgeoning music, arts, and food scenes. The state also boasts numerous state parks and outdoor attractions, making it appealing for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.

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.

Other Top Nursing Programs in Arkansas

• Best Arkansas LPN Degree Programs
• Top RN to MSN Programs in Arkansas
• The Best Arkansas Online Nurse Practitioner Programs and Requirements

 Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Arkansas

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.