RN Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas RN Programs at a Glance
RN Programs Offered in Arkansas
- ADN Programs: 23
- BSN Programs: 12
ADN Program Stats
- NCLEX-RN Average: 82%
- NCLEX Rate Range: 60% to 92%
- Average Net-Price $7,025.65
- Net-Price Range: $3,143.00 to $12,117.00
- Average Student Loan: $8,319.10
BSN Program Stats
- NCLEX-RN Average: 84%
- NCLEX Rate Range: 57% to 91%
- Average Net-Price $9,507.27
- Net-Price Range: $6,351.00 to $16,578.00
- Average Student Loan: $13,464.00
Help You Will Find on This Page
Arkansas RN Program Guide
In our Arkansas RN program guide, you will find both ADN and BSN Degree program rankings, tuition costs, enrollment information, NCLEX passing rates, and more. You will find key Arkansas RN Program information to help you compare programs metrics and apply to best RN program(s) for the advancement of your career.
The State of Arkansas offers 29 RN programs in 27 different cities. Public institutions offer 28 of the RN programs in the state and there is 1 not-for-profit institution.
In the State of Arkansas, nurses are helping to change the face of healthcare. To ensure that they have the best education and preparation for future health care challenges, registered nurses need to graduate from a state-approved associate’s degree in nursing program or a BSN degree program.
Nurses who graduate from an RN program are able to then obtain certification in over 100 nursing specialties.
What is the best RN program for you to attend? Your sweet spot might be the least expensive school with the highest NCLEX-RN passing rate. Or, it might the school that offers the best NCLEX-RN passing rate no matter the total cost of attendance. You may also want to consider schools with the highest enrollment rate so that you can collaborate with fellow students and have a large alumni to connect with after graduation.
Find your ideal program from information and data in our guide to Arkansas RN Programs.
Accredited RN Programs in Arkansas
Nursing school accreditation is one of the most important aspects to consider at when deciding which RN program to attend. If you ever plan to continue your education, academic credits from an accredited program are more easily accepted or transferred between accredited programs. Some employers will prefer to hire nurses from an accredited program.
Not all nursing programs in Arkansas are accredited by either Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the two primary accrediting agencies for nursing programs.
ADN Programs in Arkansas
There are a variety of nursing programs available in Arkansas for the those desiring to become an RN. In the past, they were not readily available to all LPNs in Arkansas if they lived in rural area. However, there are now multiple options for LPNs in rural areas to obtain their RN degree, such as the Arkansas Rural Nursing Education Consortium (ARNEC). ARNEC is a coalition of eight community colleges that offer education to LPNs in their own communities.
NCLEX Passing Rates for Arkansas ADN Programs
NorthWest Arkansas Community College has the highest NCLEX-RN rate in Arkansas of 92.03%. Attending this stellar school will cost you about $6,590.00 a year.
- ADN Programs Offered in Arkansas: 23
- Average NCLEX-RN Passing Rate: 81.68%
- NCLEX Passing Rate Range: 59.72% to 92.03%
How Much Do ADN Programs Cost in Arkansas?
We compiled the net-price costs for RN Programs in Arkansas so that you can find RN programs to meet your budget expectations.
When comparing ADN vs BSN programs, the average net-price per year for an Associate Degree in Nursing program is considerably less than for a Bachelor Degree in Nursing.
The lowest cost ADN program in Arkansas is offered by East Arkansas Community College at about $3,143.00 and has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 59.72%. The highest cost ADN program is offered by South Arkansas Community College and it will cost about $12,117.00.
- Average Net-Price for ADN Programs inArkansas: $7,025.65
- Net-Price Range for Arkansas ADN Programs: $3,143.00 to $12,117.00
Median Student Borrowing for ADN Programs
- Average Student Borrowing for Arkansas Schools: $8,319.10
- Student borrowing range for ADN programs in Arkansas: $2,600.00 to $15,263.00
ADN Programs at Public or Private Institutions
- Public Institutions: 23
- Private For-Profit Institutions: 0
- Private Not-for-Profit Institutions: 0
BSN Programs in Arkansas
The Department of Higher Education in Arkansas offers a loan program for nurses who are interested in a bachelor’s degree in nursing education. Every year that a graduate teaches nursing full-time will allow for a year of their loan to be fully forgiven. There are plenty of BSN programs available online as well as on campus part-time and full-time. In order for an RN to enter a BSN program, they must have an active Arkansas license and have graduated from an accredited nursing school with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some of the courses that are common for a BSN degree include:
- Transition to Professional Nursing Practice
- Informatics for Professional Nursing
- Scope of Professional Practice
NCLEX Passing Rates for Arkansas BSN Programs
University of Arkansas wins the highest NCLEX-RN passing rate for BSN programs offered in Arkansas with a score of 90.75%. Attending this influential program will cost you about $12,057.00 a year.
- BSN Programs Offered in Arkansas: 12
- Average NCLEX-RN Passing Rate: 83.54%
- NCLEX Passing Rate Range: 56.67% to 90.75%
Prepare for to pass the NCLEX-RN exam with our NCLEX practice questions with rationales.
How Much Do BSN Degree Programs Cost in Arkansas?
We compiled the net-price costs for BSN Programs in Arkansas to give you an idea of how much nursing school will cost.
The lowest cost BSN degree program in Arkansas is offered by University of Arkansas-Fort Smith and will cost you about $6,351.00 and has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 89.83%. The highest cost BSN degree program is offered by Harding University and will cost you about $16,578.00 and it has an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 90.17%.
- Average Net-Price for BSN Programs in Arkansas: $9,507.27
- Net-Price Range for Arkansas BSN Programs: $6,351.00 to $16,578.00
Median Student Borrowing for BSN Programs
- Average Student Borrowing for Arkansas Schools: $13,464.00
- Student borrowing range for BSN programs in Arkansas: $8,038.00 to $23,058.00
BSN Programs at Public or Private Institutions
- Public Institutions: 11
- Private For-Profit Institutions: 0
- Private Not-for-Profit Institutions: 1
MSN Programs in Arkansas
RNs who wish to become advanced practice registered nurses will want to pursue any number of avenues to earn Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Earning a Master of Science in Nursing consists of graduate-level coursework and clinical practice for those nurses who wish to direct patient roles such as a nurse practitioner. You can also pursue indirect patient roles such as teaching or leadership roles, or become involved in policy, state-wide health initiatives or community engagement. There are many clinical and non-clinical avenues that an RN with MSN can pursue.Learn how to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) and research schools in Arkansas offering the following high paying nurse practitioner specialties:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Learn about Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree.
Online Programs in Arkansas
Today, there are very few disadvantages to earning an online RN degree. With advances in online learning coupled the need to educate more nurses because of the nursing shortage, many nursing schools are offing online nursing programs.
For nurses needing to complete clinicals, nursing programs usually help a nurse to find one.
Be sure to choose an accredited program that meets quality standards set by either the ACEN or CCNE accrediting agencies. An accredited online RN Nursing program will help ensure that your units pass can transfer to another accredited college and help you in gain employment. Learn more about online RN programs.
Arkansas RN Licensing Requirements
The state of Arkansas has strict requirements candidates must meet in order obtain licensure as an RN.
Those applying for licensure in Arkansas through an endorsement must have completed an approved nursing program in a different state. International students who completed a program similar to a program in Arkansas may also apply for licensure. However, they must have proof of eligibility for licensure in the country they graduated from. They must also prove that they can read, write, and speak English through the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools. This does not include English-speaking countries such as Canada, Australia, and England.
RN License by Exam
The first and most direct path to obtaining licensure is through examination. Candidates need to register for the NCLEX-PN exam through Pearson VUE. In addition to completing the exam, candidates must also complete the following steps:
Complete a State-approved nursing program:
In order to become eligible for state licensure through the state of Arkansas, candidates must have completed high school as well as a preparation program approved by the state. Applicants who have completed a program in a different state have the possibility of being eligible for licensure if the Arkansas State Board of Nursing believes they are qualified. Nursing programs must have been approved by the Department of Higher education and hold accreditation from a recognized body.
Complete online application for licensure:
Every candidate must apply for licensure through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. They must also gain permission to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) before taking the exam. This should be completed about two months before graduation from a nursing program.
Complete a criminal background check:
First-time applicants must complete a background check at both the state and federal levels. When this has been completed, the applicant must also submit a fingerprint that will be forwarded to the Arkansas State Police. Licenses may be denied on the basis of disciplinary history or criminal background.
RN License by Endorsement
One can obtain licensure through endorsement if they already have a license in one of the other 50 states. Out of state candidates have the opportunity to work using a temporary permit while they are working on gaining their endorsement.
Candidates who have had their license for less than five years will need to provide documentation stating they have practiced for 1,000 hours or completed a program in an approved accredited university.
RN License for Nurses Educated Abroad
Candidates who are educated abroad also have an opportunity to obtain licensure as long as they provide transcripts that reflect a similar education.
RN Salaries in Arkansas
According to a survey by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the prospects for BSN graduates were better in the southern parts of the country. This does not mean that by attending a school in the south automatically guarantees you a job. It also does not mean that you won’t be able to find a job by not attending school in the south. The participants in the survey were college deans who indicated that 82% of their graduates had job offers right after graduation. Healthcare is a necessity. However, like every other industry, it has been affected to some degree by the broken economy. There are some nurses who will refuse to relay retirement. There is a long-term need for professional nurses that will never cease.
Arkansas Registered Nursing Salaries
Below is a table of the hourly mean RN Salary and the annual median wage in all the metropolitan areas in the state of Arkansas. By looking at this table, you will notice that the annual median wage in Fayetteville metropolitan area has the highest annual median wage. However, Little Rock has the highest number of employed RNs.
| Area name | Employment | Hourly median wage | Annual median wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO | 2,650 | $26.71 | $55,550 |
| Fort Smith, AR-OK | 1,900 | $25.95 | $53,970 |
| Hot Springs, AR | 990 | $25.47 | $52,970 |
| Jonesboro, AR | 1,340 | $25.60 | $53,240 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 9,300 | $28.73 | $59,760 |
| Pine Bluff, AR | 660 | $24.08 | $50,100 |
| Central Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,080 | $23.72 | $49,330 |
| East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,670 | $24.19 | $50,320 |
| South Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,780 | $26.05 | $54,170 |
| West Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,390 | $25.16 | $52,320 |
Source: http://www.dol.gov/, 2014 Data
Best RN Programs in Arkansas
Ranked Schools: 15
Evaluated Schools: 23
One of the best measures of a nursing program’s ability to prepare its students to become a registered nurse is to look at an institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates. We went directly to Arkansas’s state board of nursing to find, report and rank the best Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs Arkansas.
With more than 23 Arkansas associate degree in nursing programs to choose from, we hope to provide some of the critical information you need before applying to a ADN program. We ranked the top 15 ADN degree programs in the Arkansas. Research the best BSN Degrees Arkansas.
For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
RANKED 1
ADN
Overall Score: 92.03%
NorthWest Arkansas Community College
- One College Drive, Bentonville, AR - 72712-5091
- (479) 636-9222
Northwest Arkansas Community College is located in Bentonville, Arkansas and they can boast that their nursing program has the highest NCLEX-RN pass rate in the entire state of Arkansas. Their nursing program is ideal for a variety of student types, as some of their classes are available online. In addition, classes are also offered at their other campuses in Springdale or Farmington.
- Campus: Bentonville, AR
- Net Price: $6,590.00
- Enrollment: 8,020
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -39.30%
- Graduation Rate: 14.10%
- Median Borrowing: $9,250.00
- Median Payment: $96.58
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 2
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 90.37%
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- 2105 E. Aggie Road, Jonesboro, AR - 72401
- (870) 972-2100
- Campus: Jonesboro, AR
- Net Price: $8,984.00
- Enrollment: 10,098
- Transfer Out Rate: 30.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 12.43%
- Graduation Rate: 35.70%
- Median Borrowing: $15,263.00
- Median Payment: $159.36
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 3
ADN
Overall Score: 88.27%
North Arkansas College
- 1515 Pioneer Dr, Harrison, AR - 72601-5508
- (870) 743-3000
North Arkansas College is located in Harrison, Arkansas. They offer both an LPN to RN program and an RN program. Their LPN to RN program is offered yearly, beginning in January. In addition to meeting the prerequisite requirements that all RN students must meet, the LPN to RN program requires its students to have practiced as an LPN for at least 3 months or 120 hours, and have this verified by their employer.
- Campus: Harrison, AR
- Net Price: $4,171.00
- Enrollment: 2,167
- Transfer Out Rate: 10.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 24.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -11.05%
- Graduation Rate: 23.80%
- Median Borrowing: $9,726.00
- Median Payment: $101.55
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 4
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 87.72%
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- 2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR - 72204
- (501) 569-3000
University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) s located in Little Rock, Arkansas. They offer multiple types of RN programs – an RN program, a BSN program, an online RN to BSN program, and an LPN or paramedic to to RN program. The Department of Nursing is the largest department at UALR – at any given time, there are 600 students, twenty full-time faculty and six staff members.
- Campus: Little Rock, AR
- Net Price: $9,793.00
- Enrollment: 9,970
- Transfer Out Rate: 31.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 10.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 36.07%
- Graduation Rate: 21.40%
- Median Borrowing: $14,869.00
- Median Payment: $155.25
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 5
ADN
Overall Score: 86.90%
National Park College
- 101 College Dr, Hot Springs, AR - 71913
- (501) 760-4222
National Park College is located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. They offer multiple nursing programs – an LPN program, an RN program, and an LPN to RN program. Unique to National Park College is the High School to ASN track. The high school student applies in their senior year of high school and can elect either a two year or three year option; the three year option is often selected if the student suspects that they will eventually continue for a BSN degree.
- Campus: Hot Springs, AR
- Net Price: $8,852.00
- Enrollment: 3,246
- Transfer Out Rate: 13.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 23.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 3.48%
- Graduation Rate: 19.70%
- Median Borrowing: $10,546.00
- Median Payment: $110.11
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 6
ADN
Overall Score: 84.82%
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas
- 1000 Campus Drive, Helena, AR - 72342-0785
- (870) 338-6474
- Campus: Helena, AR
- Net Price: $10,959.00
- Enrollment: 2,029
- Transfer Out Rate: 14.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 17.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.33%
- Graduation Rate: 24.50%
- Median Borrowing: $4,187.00
- Median Payment: $43.72
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 7
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 83.92%
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
- 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith, AR - 72913-3649
- (479) 788-7000
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. They are proud to boast that their online RN to BSN program has been rated third out of 30 best affordable online programs by Great Value Colleges, which helps students get the best education for their money.
- Campus: Fort Smith, AR
- Net Price: $6,351.00
- Enrollment: 7,170
- Transfer Out Rate: 15.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 25.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -1.89%
- Graduation Rate: 24.10%
- Median Borrowing: $9,000.00
- Median Payment: $93.97
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 8
ADN
Overall Score: 81.95%
University of Arkansas Community College – Batesville
- 2005 White Drive, Batesville, AR - 72503-3350
- (870) 612-2000
University of Arkansas Community College – Batesville is located in Batesville, Arkansas. They offer a general RN program, an on-campus LPN to RN program and an online LPN to RN program. Their LPN to RN program runs for 11 months, and begins in the spring.
- Campus: Batesville, AR
- Net Price: $4,266.00
- Enrollment: 1,353
- Transfer Out Rate: 18.50%
- Loan Default Rate: 26.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -44.57%
- Graduation Rate: 25.80%
- Median Borrowing: $8,500.00
- Median Payment: $88.75
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 9
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 81.88%
Arkansas Tech University
- Administration Bldg 200; 1509 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, AR - 72801-2222
- (479) 968-0389
- Campus: Russellville, AR
- Net Price: $8,137.00
- Enrollment: 10,482
- Transfer Out Rate: 32.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 17.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 7.58%
- Graduation Rate: 40.70%
- Median Borrowing: $11,338.00
- Median Payment: $118.38
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 10
ADN
Overall Score: 79.25%
Arkansas Northeastern College
- 2501 S Division, Blytheville, AR - 72316-1109
- (8.7) 076-2E+13
- Campus: Blytheville, AR
- Net Price: $7,649.00
- Enrollment: 1,425
- Transfer Out Rate: 16.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 22.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.11%
- Graduation Rate: 20.40%
- Median Borrowing: $3,500.00
- Median Payment: $36.54
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 11
ADN
Overall Score: 79.15%
Southeast Arkansas College
- 1900 Hazel St., Pine Bluff, AR - 71603
- (870) 543-5900
- Campus: Pine Bluff, AR
- Net Price: $5,291.00
- Enrollment: 1,601
- Loan Default Rate: 26.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -29.71%
- Graduation Rate: 12.50%
- Median Borrowing: $5,185.00
- Median Payment: $54.14
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 12
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 77.05%
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
- 100 E. University, Magnolia, AR - 71753
- (870) 235-4000
- Campus: Magnolia, AR
- Net Price: $7,604.00
- Enrollment: 2,960
- Transfer Out Rate: 30.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 18.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 11.37%
- Graduation Rate: 30.40%
- Median Borrowing: $11,958.00
- Median Payment: $124.86
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 13
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 76.90%
University of Arkansas at Monticello
- Highway 425 South, Monticello, AR - 71656
- (870) 367-6811
- Campus: Monticello, AR
- Net Price: $9,577.00
- Enrollment: 3,706
- Transfer Out Rate: 20.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 22.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 14.05%
- Graduation Rate: 28.00%
- Median Borrowing: $8,038.00
- Median Payment: $83.93
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 14
ADN
Overall Score: 75.32%
College of the Ouachitas
- One College Circle, Malvern, AR - 72104-0816
- (5.0) 133-8E+13
- Campus: Malvern, AR
- Net Price: $4,788.00
- Enrollment: 1,501
- Transfer Out Rate: 15.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 16.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -0.64%
- Graduation Rate: 23.30%
- Median Borrowing: $6,769.00
- Median Payment: $70.68
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 15
ADN
Overall Score: 59.72%
East Arkansas Community College
- 1700 Newcastle Rd, Forrest City, AR - 72335-2204
- (8.7) 063-3E+12
- Campus: Forrest City, AR
- Net Price: $3,143.00
- Enrollment: 1,386
- Transfer Out Rate: 19.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 24.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 30.52%
- Graduation Rate: 12.00%
- Median Borrowing: $2,600.00
- Median Payment: $27.15
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas
- 183 College Drive, De Queen, AR - 71832
- (870) 584-4471
- Campus: De Queen, AR
- Net Price: $5,863.00
- Enrollment: 1,597
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 18.61%
- Graduation Rate: 22.20%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
Ozarka College
- 218 College Dr, Melbourne, AR - 72556-0010
- (870) 368-7371
- Campus: Melbourne, AR
- Net Price: $6,701.00
- Enrollment: 1,489
- Transfer Out Rate: 6.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 23.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -3.14%
- Graduation Rate: 22.00%
- Median Borrowing: $9,500.00
- Median Payment: $99.19
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton
- 1537 University Blvd., Morrilton, AR - 72110
- (501) 977-2000
- Campus: Morrilton, AR
- Net Price: $6,758.00
- Enrollment: 2,149
- Transfer Out Rate: 14.30%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 27.08%
- Graduation Rate: 27.60%
- Median Borrowing: $5,455.00
- Median Payment: $56.96
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
University of Arkansas Community College-Hope
- 2500 S Main, Hope, AR - 71801
- (870) 777-5722
- Campus: Hope, AR
- Net Price: $8,584.00
- Enrollment: 1,460
- Loan Default Rate: 28.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 17.54%
- Graduation Rate: 23.30%
- Median Borrowing: $3,500.00
- Median Payment: $36.54
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
UA Rich Mountain
- 1100 College Dr, Mena, AR - 71953
- (479) 394-7622
- Campus: Mena, AR
- Net Price: $4,776.00
- Enrollment: 957
- Transfer Out Rate: 6.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 62.34%
- Graduation Rate: 22.20%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
South Arkansas Community College
- 300 S West Ave, El Dorado, AR - 71731-7010
- (870) 862-8131
- Campus: El Dorado, AR
- Net Price: $12,117.00
- Enrollment: 1,632
- Transfer Out Rate: 2.90%
- Loan Default Rate: 21.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 60.75%
- Graduation Rate: 10.40%
- Median Borrowing: $9,500.00
- Median Payment: $99.19
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
Arkansas State University-Newport
- 7648 Victory Blvd, Newport, AR - 72112
- (870) 512-7800
- Campus: Newport, AR
- Net Price: $5,218.00
- Enrollment: 2,057
- Loan Default Rate: 14.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 27.49%
- Graduation Rate: 44.60%
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED N/A*
ADN
Overall Score: N/A*
Black River Technical College
- 1410 Hwy 304 East, Pocahontas, AR - 72455
- (870) 248-4000
- Campus: Pocahontas, AR
- Net Price: $5,418.00
- Enrollment: 2,248
- Loan Default Rate: 29.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -25.07%
- Graduation Rate: 14.40%
- Median Borrowing: $7,698.00
- Median Payment: $80.38
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s):
Sources: The State Board of Nursing from Each State, U.S. Department of Education: College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education – OPE, National Center for Education Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Nursing Specialties: Nursing Specialties | RN Salary Guide: Registered Nurse Salary | LPN Salary Guide: LPN Salary | Online Associates Nursing Program | Nursing Schools in Arizona | Nursing Schools in Maryland | RN Programs in the United States | For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Arkansas Nurses Association
University Tower Building
1123 S. University, Suite 800
Little Rock, AR 72204-1619
Phone: (501) 686-2700
Fax: (501) 686-2714
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- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary
- Transfer RN License Between States
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Ranked Schools: 11
Evaluated Schools: 12
One of the best measures of a nursing program’s ability to prepare its students to become a registered nurse is to look at an institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates. We went directly to Arkansas’s state board of nursing to find, report and rank the best BSN degree programs Arkansas.
With more than 12 Arkansas BSN degree programs to choose from, we hope to provide you some of the critical information you may need before applying to a BSN degree program. We ranked the top 11 BSN degree programs in the Colorado. Research the best ADN Programs in Arkansas.
For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
RANKED 1
BSN
Overall Score: 90.75%
University of Arkansas
- Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, AR - 72701
- (479) 575-2000
University of Arkansas is located in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing offers a BSN and an RN to BSN program. It is their belief that professional nursing begins with a Bachelor of Science degree, so their curriculum “offers a research base for nursing practice that promotes the ability of the nurse to effect change needed to improve health.”
- Campus: Fayetteville, AR
- Net Price: $12,057.00
- Enrollment: 21,009
- Loan Default Rate: 6.70%
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 20.73%
- Graduation Rate: 60.10%
- Median Borrowing: $16,797.00
- Median Payment: $175.38
- Award Levels: Bachelor, Masters, Post-Baccalaureate Doctorate, Post-Master Doctorate
- Program Accreditation(s): AANP, CCNE
RANKED 2
BSN
Overall Score: 90.17%
Harding University
- 915 E. Market Ave., Searcy, AR - 72143
- (501) 279-4000
Harding University is located in Searcy, Arkansas. Carr College of Nursing was founded in 1975; their graduates are now working throughout the world. Carr College of Nursing produces nurses who are not only prepared for entry-level nursing positions, but are also Christian servants. Their students have the opportunity to join a Health Care Missions Program, with local and international experiences.
- Campus: Searcy, AR
- Net Price: $16,578.00
- Enrollment: 4,428
- Loan Default Rate: 4.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 13.42%
- Graduation Rate: 62.20%
- Median Borrowing: $23,058.00
- Median Payment: $240.75
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Masters
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 3
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 89.83%
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
- 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith, AR - 72913-3649
- (479) 788-7000
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. They are proud to boast that their online RN to BSN program has been rated third out of 30 best affordable online programs by Great Value Colleges, which helps students get the best education for their money.
- Campus: Fort Smith, AR
- Net Price: $6,351.00
- Enrollment: 7,170
- Transfer Out Rate: 15.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 25.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -1.89%
- Graduation Rate: 24.10%
- Median Borrowing: $9,000.00
- Median Payment: $93.97
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 4
BSN
Overall Score: 87.93%
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
- 4301 W Markham, Little Rock, AR - 72205-7199
- (501) 296-1275
- Campus: Little Rock, AR
- Programs: Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
- Offered as: Campus, Hybrid
- Type: Public
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Masters, Post Master, Post-Master Doctorate
- Program Accreditation(s): AANP, CCNE
RANKED 5
BSN
Overall Score: 87.85%
University of Central Arkansas
- 201 Donaghey Ave, Conway, AR - 72035-0001
- (501) 450-5000
University of Central Arkansas is located in Conway, Arkansas. Their BSN program was founded in 1967 in response to the closure of a neighboring school’s BSN program. They currently offer a BSN program, an LPN to BSN program, an RN to BSN programa, and an RN to BSN/MSN program. In addition, they have an MSN program that is subdivided into Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), and Nurse Educator with a Clinical Specialty (NECS). Their MSN program is ranked 8th in the nation by Top Master’s in Healthcare Administration.
- Campus: Conway, AR
- Net Price: $9,348.00
- Enrollment: 9,754
- Transfer Out Rate: 27.50%
- Loan Default Rate: 10.10%
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 1.61%
- Graduation Rate: 41.50%
- Median Borrowing: $13,119.00
- Median Payment: $136.98
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Masters, Post-Master Doctorate
- Program Accreditation(s): AANP, CCNE
RANKED 6
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 86.08%
Arkansas Tech University
- Administration Bldg 200; 1509 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, AR - 72801-2222
- (479) 968-0389
- Campus: Russellville, AR
- Net Price: $8,137.00
- Enrollment: 10,482
- Transfer Out Rate: 32.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 17.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 7.58%
- Graduation Rate: 40.70%
- Median Borrowing: $11,338.00
- Median Payment: $118.38
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 7
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 85.72%
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- 2105 E. Aggie Road, Jonesboro, AR - 72401
- (870) 972-2100
- Campus: Jonesboro, AR
- Net Price: $8,984.00
- Enrollment: 10,098
- Transfer Out Rate: 30.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 12.43%
- Graduation Rate: 35.70%
- Median Borrowing: $15,263.00
- Median Payment: $159.36
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 8
BSN
Overall Score: 85.38%
Henderson State University
- 1100 Henderson Street, Arkadelphia, AR - 71999-0001
- (870) 230-5000
- Campus: Arkadelphia, AR
- Net Price: $8,853.00
- Enrollment: 3,199
- Transfer Out Rate: 44.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 10.86%
- Graduation Rate: 28.60%
- Median Borrowing: $10,500.00
- Median Payment: $109.63
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED 9
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 83.32%
University of Arkansas at Monticello
- Highway 425 South, Monticello, AR - 71656
- (870) 367-6811
- Campus: Monticello, AR
- Net Price: $9,577.00
- Enrollment: 3,706
- Transfer Out Rate: 20.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 22.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 14.05%
- Graduation Rate: 28.00%
- Median Borrowing: $8,038.00
- Median Payment: $83.93
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 10
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 75.26%
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
- 100 E. University, Magnolia, AR - 71753
- (870) 235-4000
- Campus: Magnolia, AR
- Net Price: $7,604.00
- Enrollment: 2,960
- Transfer Out Rate: 30.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 18.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 11.37%
- Graduation Rate: 30.40%
- Median Borrowing: $11,958.00
- Median Payment: $124.86
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
RANKED 11
BSN
Overall Score: 56.67%
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- 1200 N University Mail Slot 4789, Pine Bluff, AR - 71601
- (870) 575-8000
- Campus: Pine Bluff, AR
- Net Price: $7,298.00
- Enrollment: 2,521
- Transfer Out Rate: 12.00%
- Loan Default Rate: 29.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -8.31%
- Graduation Rate: 25.80%
- Median Borrowing: $14,164.00
- Median Payment: $147.89
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s): CCNE
RANKED N/A*
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A*
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- 2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR - 72204
- (501) 569-3000
University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR) s located in Little Rock, Arkansas. They offer multiple types of RN programs – an RN program, a BSN program, an online RN to BSN program, and an LPN or paramedic to to RN program. The Department of Nursing is the largest department at UALR – at any given time, there are 600 students, twenty full-time faculty and six staff members.
- Campus: Little Rock, AR
- Net Price: $9,793.00
- Enrollment: 9,970
- Transfer Out Rate: 31.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 10.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 36.07%
- Graduation Rate: 21.40%
- Median Borrowing: $14,869.00
- Median Payment: $155.25
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s):
Sources: The State Board of Nursing from Each State, U.S. Department of Education: College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education – OPE, National Center for Education Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Nursing Specialties: Nursing Specialties | RN Salary Guide: Registered Nurse Salary | LPN Salary Guide: LPN Salary | Online Associates Nursing Program | Nursing Schools in Arizona | Nursing Schools in Maryland | RN Programs in the United States | For information about how we rank RN programs, please see our ranking methodology.
Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Arkansas Nurses Association
University Tower Building
1123 S. University, Suite 800
Little Rock, AR 72204-1619
Phone: (501) 686-2700
Fax: (501) 686-2714
Helpful Nursing Resources
- Registered Nurse (RN) Salary
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salary
- Transfer RN License Between States
Recent Posts
Parish Nursing
Learn about Parish Nurse educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, required …Complete List of State Boards of Nursing
We have compiled a list of all State Boards of …Public Health Nurse
Learn about Public Health Nurse educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, …Wound Care Nurse
Want to become a Wound Care Nurse? Learn about careers, …Legal Nurse Consultant
Research Legal Nurse Consultant careers, educational requirements, salaries, job outlook, …Psychiatric Nurse
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According to a survey by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the prospects for BSN graduates were better in the southern parts of the country. This does not mean that by attending a school in the south automatically guarantees you a job. It also does not mean that you won’t be able to find a job by not attending school in the south. The participants in the survey were college deans who indicated that 82% of their graduates had job offers right after graduation. Healthcare is a necessity. However, like every other industry, it has been affected to some degree by the broken economy. There are some nurses who will refuse to relay retirement. There is a long-term need for professional nurses that will never cease.
Arkansas Registered Nursing Salaries
Below is a table of the hourly mean RN Salary and the annual median wage in all the metropolitan areas in the state of Arkansas. By looking at this table, you will notice that the annual median wage in Fayetteville metropolitan area has the highest annual median wage. However, Little Rock has the highest number of employed RNs.
| Area name | Employment | Hourly median wage | Annual median wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO | 2,650 | $26.71 | $55,550 |
| Fort Smith, AR-OK | 1,900 | $25.95 | $53,970 |
| Hot Springs, AR | 990 | $25.47 | $52,970 |
| Jonesboro, AR | 1,340 | $25.60 | $53,240 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 9,300 | $28.73 | $59,760 |
| Pine Bluff, AR | 660 | $24.08 | $50,100 |
| Central Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,080 | $23.72 | $49,330 |
| East Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,670 | $24.19 | $50,320 |
| South Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,780 | $26.05 | $54,170 |
| West Arkansas nonmetropolitan area | 1,390 | $25.16 | $52,320 |
Source: http://www.dol.gov/, 2014 Data