Nursing in Arkansas

If you want to become a nurse in Arkansas, you have lots of options to start your training. The state has 41 nursing schools spread across 52 cities. This means you can probably find a program close to where you live or in a town you like. Whether you plan to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (PN) or a Registered Nurse (RN), you will have access to schools that help you prepare for your NCLEX exams and future career. Passing the NCLEX test is your next big step after finishing school. This test shows you have the skills and knowledge needed to work safely as a nurse. In Arkansas, the average pass rate for the NCLEX is 85.4%. The numbers for schools range between about 78.5% and 91.1%. Right now, these rates are steady, which means nursing schools in Arkansas continue to get students ready to pass this important exam.

Once you become a nurse here, you get a nice advantage. Arkansas is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact. This means if you earn your nursing license in Arkansas, you can also work in other states that belong to this group without getting a new license right away. This can open up more job options for you if you want to work near the border or move later on. You may be wondering about the job chances and pay for nurses in Arkansas. The average salary for a Registered Nurse here is about $65,000 a year. That number can go up with experience, extra training, or by working in certain types of care. The state has several large hospitals and health systems that hire many nurses. These include Arkansas Children's Hospital, Baptist Health, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). These places offer many jobs and chances to grow your skills. This page will help you find the right nursing school in Arkansas, show you how the state’s schools compare on NCLEX pass rates, and list scholarships that can help with the cost of school.

Take the time to look through these resources. Your nursing journey in Arkansas is within reach, and with a little planning, you can find a path that fits your goals and life.