Nursing Schools in Arkansas
Arkansas offers a diverse range of nursing education programs, catering to aspiring nurses at all levels. With 41 institutions across the state, prospective students can choose from programs leading to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and even advanced degrees like Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
The state is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning that nurses licensed in Arkansas can practice in other NLC member states without additional licensing. This adds to the appeal of pursuing a nursing career in Arkansas.
Top Nursing Schools in Arkansas:
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock: UAMS is a prominent medical school with extensive research capabilities, offering comprehensive nursing programs.
- Arkansas State University in Jonesboro: This university boasts a strong nursing program with a focus on community engagement.
- University of Arkansas in Fayetteville: Known for its innovative teaching and technology, the University of Arkansas provides a well-rounded nursing education.
Cost of Nursing Education:
The cost of nursing education in Arkansas varies depending on the program and institution.
- LPN programs: Typically require 12-18 months of study and cost between $5,000 and $15,000.
- ADN programs: Usually take two years and cost around $10,000 to $30,000.
- BSN programs: Typically require four years and can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000, depending on factors like residency and accelerated programs.
Salary Expectations:
Arkansas faces a nursing shortage, primarily due to an aging workforce and increasing demand for healthcare services. The state actively promotes nursing education and career paths to address this challenge.
Upon graduation, LPNs in Arkansas can expect to earn a median annual salary of approximately $49,360, with a median hourly rate of $24. Registered Nurses in the state earn a median annual salary of $72,900, with a median hourly rate of $35. These figures can vary based on experience, specialization, location, and employer.
To learn more about specific nursing programs and their associated costs, explore our comprehensive list of nursing schools in Arkansas. This list provides detailed information about the diverse educational options available, program offerings, and potential career paths.
Top RN Programs in Arkansas
Harding University is the largest private university in Arkansas, with the main campus in Searcy and three satellite campuses throughout the state. The school was founded in 1924 and now includes 49 buildings on the main campus and a growing student body. 5,541 students were enrolled for the Fall 2017 semester. The university includes nine colleges, including the Carr College of Nursing. Students are encouraged to participate in local devotionals, churches, and social clubs while forbidding the formation of fraternities and sororities. Harding University is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and students are required to attend a daily informational and devotional seminar referred to by the students as "chapel".
The Harding University Carr College of Nursing offers several nursing programs, including the traditional BSN track. The nursing program was founded in 1975 and is now ranked as the top nursing program in Arkansas. Other programs include an accelerated 2nd-degree BSN track and a graduate program for a Master of Science in nursing (MSN). The MNS track is for those that want to become a Family Nurse Practitioner and the classes are only offered online. All programs are accredited by the CCNE and have full approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN).
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCC or PCCUA) is a two-year institution that is located in Helena, Arkansas. This is a community college that offers a large number of different degree programs and several certificate programs. Students can also choose to transfer credits over to major universities when they are seeking a four-year degree. This school was established in 1965 and currently has well over 2,000 students enrolled. With many different degree programs to choose from, students can expect a varied education that will lead them toward a lucrative career path.
The practical nursing program that is offered at PCCUA is very robust. Students will be able to pursue their nursing education with all of the necessary tools that they need to succeed. This is a program that has helped many nursing students to gain the right skills to find a place as dedicated medical professionals. This program admits new nurses to the program every third semester. Nursing is a career path that continues to grow in popularity and this has caused the program to be one of the most popular ones that are offered at this college.
