[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are more than 40 state-approved nursing schools in Arkansas. Because Arkansas is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, graduates can apply for a multistate license to practice in any of the 37 participating states.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In Arkansas, you can enjoy a lower cost of living and an above-average job growth rate for registered nurses (RNs). This guide explores the best nursing programs in Arkansas, how to apply for a nursing license, and typical salary ranges, including the highest-paying cities in Arkansas for RNs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing schools and programs in Arkansas.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Featured Online MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It can be hard to choose from the variety of private and state nursing programs in Arkansas. This guide can help you find the right program for your personal and career goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Our Methodology[/hen-ui-text]: We use a [hen-ui-link href=”/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best nursing schools in Arkansas, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.[/hen-ui-text]
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1
Harding University
Searcy, AR
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Christian-based Harding University offers a traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and a hybrid accelerated BSN for undergraduates, along with master of science in nursing (MSN) tracks.
Graduate students can opt for an MSN-master's entry into professional nursing or a MSN-family nurse practitioner. Programs prepare students for their licensing and certification exams.
Program(s): BSN; MSN
Campus: Searcy, AR
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $750 per credit hour for undergraduate students; $783-$1,131 per credit hour for graduate students
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree or RN license, depending on track; online application; transcripts
Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.2% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,220 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
24%
Online Enrollment
$11,388
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
87%
Retention Rate
$11,388
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
4,617
Institution Type
Private
#2
Ouachita Baptist University
Arkadelphia, AR
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Liberal arts-focused Ouachita Baptist University 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 include community health, healthcare pathophysiology, leadership and management, and transcultural nursing.
Program(s): BSN; RN-to-BSN
Campus: Arkadelphia, AR
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): 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
14%
Online Enrollment
$13,500
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
81%
Retention Rate
$13,500
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
1,704
Institution Type
Private
#3
Ozarka College
Melbourne, AR
2 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Ozarka College offers associate degrees and certificates, including an associate of applied science (AAS) in registered nursing for licensed practical nurses (LPNs).
Courses cover nursing process, NCLEX-RN preparation, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology. The 66-credit program includes evening lectures and clinical practicums on the weekends.
Ozarka also offers LPN and nursing assistant certificates.
Tuition: $90 per credit hour for in-state students; $188 per credit hour for out-of-state students
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
67%
Online Enrollment
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
57%
Retention Rate
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
1,033
Institution Type
Public
#4
University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain
Mena, AR
2 year
Campus
Accredited
Students at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain can choose from several associate degrees, including an AAS in registered nursing for LPNs. Students attend interactive video courses in the evenings and complete clinical hours on the weekends.
UA Rich Mountain's certificate options include practical nursing and nursing assistant.
Tuition: $99 per credit hour for in-district students; $114 per credit hour for out-of-district students; $147 per credit hour for out-of-state students
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
70%
Online Enrollment
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
65%
Retention Rate
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
798
Institution Type
Public
#5
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Hosting a top 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, and doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree-seekers concentrate on clinical practice.
Program(s): BSN; LPN-to-BSN; RN-to-BSN; MSN; DNP
Campus: Fayetteville, AR
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $302-$964 per credit hour undergraduate; $438-$1,190 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
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $59,310 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
97%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,752
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
85%
Retention Rate
$21,032
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
27,562
Institution Type
Public
#6
East Arkansas Community College
Forrest City, AR
2 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
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.
Tuition: $88 per credit hour for in-county students; $98 per credit hour for out-of-county students; $118 per credit hour for out-of-state students
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
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 63.6% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,320 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
63%
Online Enrollment
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
52%
Retention Rate
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
934
Institution Type
Public
#7
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
Jonesboro, AR
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Nursing programs at Arkansas State University offer online and on-campus learning options. Students can enroll in an associate of applied science in nursing (AASN), a BSN, or an MSN program. MSN learners can choose a nurse practitioner, a nurse administration, or a nurse educator track.
A-State also lists a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and doctorate in nurse anesthesia.
Accreditation(s): 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 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 summer semester
Admission Requirements: Degree or diploma, depending on 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
75%
Online Enrollment
$4,986
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
79%
Retention Rate
$9,972
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
13,106
Institution Type
Public
#8
University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton
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
47%
Online Enrollment
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
59%
Retention Rate
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
1,836
Institution Type
Public
#9
Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
Mountain Home, AR
2 year
Campus
Accredited
Committed to providing affordable, accessible education, Arkansas State University Mountain Home offers a bridge program for LPNs and paramedics to earn their AAS in registered nursing.
The 60-credit program combines online learning with in-person instruction and clinical hours.
Other ASUMH nursing tracks award certificates for nursing assistants, LPNs, and pre-nursing.
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
65%
Online Enrollment
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
55%
Retention Rate
N/A
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
1,271
Institution Type
Public
#10
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
Magnolia, AR
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
A regional institution, Southern Arkansas University offers a 120-credit BSN. The curriculum features course topics like nursing research for evidence-based practice, leadership and management, and pharmacology.
SAU's nursing program emphasizes experiential learning in its simulation lab and community healthcare facilities. Focus areas include acute care, community health, maternal/newborn, and pediatrics.
Program(s): BSN
Campus: Magnolia, AR
Type: Public
Accreditation(s): 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
86%
Online Enrollment
$5,112
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
72%
Retention Rate
$8,028
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,432
Institution Type
Public
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Choose a Nursing Program in Arkansas[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When considering different nursing programs in Arkansas, you might factor tuition and other costs, the National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN) pass rate, which can indicate program quality, and admission requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You might also think about [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]financial aid options[/hen-ui-link], the program’s format (especially for [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/online-nursing-programs-overview/”]online nursing schools[/hen-ui-link]), clinical placement options and assistance, and the curriculum. This guide only lists accredited programs, since [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//what-is-accreditation/”]nursing accreditation is important[/hen-ui-link] to help you achieve your goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Become a Nurse in Arkansas[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Arkansas is an NLC state, so you can get a multistate license when you attend nursing school in Arkansas. The number of RN jobs is [hen-ui-link href=”https://projectionscentral.org/” target=”_blank”]projected to grow[/hen-ui-link] 13.5% between 2018 and 2028. Because most counties in Arkansas are medically underserved areas (MUAs), you can receive scholarships or [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]loan forgiveness for nurses[/hen-ui-link] for working in these locations. The Arkansas Nurses Foundation offers scholarships as well.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Though Arkansas has many rural settings, you can still enjoy major city attractions in Little Rock and Bentonville. These cities offer a growing music, arts, and food scene. If you enjoy outdoor activities, especially hiking or fishing, Arkansas includes many state parks and other outdoor attractions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Arkansas[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://meric.mo.gov/data/cost-living-data-series” target=”_blank”]Arkansas cost of living index is 90.9[/hen-ui-link], considerably below the national index of 100. While the average RN salary is $63,640, below the national median of $75,330, and the average nurse practitioner salary is $106,210, compared to the median of $111,680 nationally, your salary will go further than in most other parts of the country.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The number of RN jobs is [hen-ui-link href=”https://projectionscentral.org/” target=”_blank”]projected to grow[/hen-ui-link] 13.5% between 2018 and 2028, more than the national projection of 9%. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services projects in Arkansas a [hen-ui-link href=”https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/data-research/nchwa-hrsa-nursing-report.pdf” target=”_blank”]surplus of 9,800[/hen-ui-link] nurses from 2014-2030.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Because Arkansas is an NLC state and these projections do not factor the number of nurses leaving healthcare during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, attending nursing school in Arkansas might result in many more job opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As the largest metropolitan area in Arkansas, Little Rock also pays the highest average RN salaries. Unincorporated areas offer lower salaries, all under $60,000. Because Arkansas has so many MUAs, many areas in Arkansas are eligible for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses-by-state/”]loan forgiveness state programs for nurses[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The Arkansas Department of Health offers information on available scholarships and loans to help your salary go even further.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Arkansas[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Top Paying Metropolitan Areas[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Average Salary for RNs[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Little Rock — North Little Rock — Conway[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$69,060[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Fayetteville — Springdale — Rogers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$63,830[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Pine Bluff[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$62,310[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Jonesboro[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$62,080[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Hot Springs[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$62,030[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2020 [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Arkansas[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To [hen-ui-link href=”/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/”]earn an RN license in any state[/hen-ui-link], you must graduate from nursing school, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/things-to-know-about-the-nclex-exam/”]pass the NCLEX-RN examination[/hen-ui-link], and complete a background check. [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]To become an advanced practice registered nurse[/hen-ui-link] (APRN), you must have an RN license, earn board certification, and pass a background check as well. Arkansas has additional requirements for APRNs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]RN Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Just as in all states, you must first become licensed as an RN to practice by completing an [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ADN) or a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing[/hen-ui-link] (BSN) program and passing the NCLEX-RN. If you attend nursing school in Arkansas and are eligible to apply for licensure by examination, you should apply to the [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//what-is-the-role-of-the-state-board-of-nursing/”]state board of nursing [/hen-ui-link]around 60 days before you graduate.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]APRN Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To earn an APRN license, you need a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/dnp//”]doctor of nursing practice[/hen-ui-link] and board certification. You must also pass a criminal background check and have an unencumbered RN license.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The state board of nursing requires at least 2,000 hours of experience as an RN to apply for APRN licensure. Most APRN nursing schools in Arkansas require or strongly encourage at least 2,000 hours for admission, so most graduates can apply immediately.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]APRNs must apply separately for prescribing authority.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Top RN to MSN Programs in Arkansas” href=”/state/arkansas/msn-programs/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Arkansas[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the salary range for nurses in Arkansas?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How many licensed nurses are in Arkansas?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are 25,300 licensed RNs in Arkansas and 2,730 NPs. There are also 13,128 licensed practical nurses, 4,551 APRNs, and 55 licensed psychiatric technician nurses, a total of about 181.5 nurses per 10,000 in the population, [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/pdf/Manpower_Report_2020.pdf” target=”_blank”]according to the Arkansas Department of Health[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take to become a nurse in Arkansas?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It takes approximately two years to earn an ADN and four years to earn a BSN. Processing time varies for a license, but you can apply to the state board of nursing for a temporary license for an additional fee.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the NCLEX-RN pass rate in Arkansas?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing schools in Arkansas is 82.3%, compared to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ncsbn.org/2019_NCLEXExamStats.pdf” target=”_blank”]84.4% nationally[/hen-ui-link]. BSN nursing programs in Arkansas generally have a higher pass rate than ADN programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Find Nursing Programs in Other States[/hen-ui-heading]
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