Nurse Researcher Review of RN to BSN Programs
Are you an RN ready to elevate your career with a BSN degree? Embrace the future with one of the 6 RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas. This guide gives you the complete rundown of everything you need to navigate your journey in the “Natural State.”
From a comprehensive ranking of programs to a clear-cut explanation of admission requirements, this guide is designed to empower you with essential information. It delves into sample course outlines to give you an idea of what to expect academically. It also explores the wide array of scholarships available to nurses in Arkansas, enhancing your financial planning strategy.
Beyond academics, the guide also offers insights into current salaries and employment prospects for BSN-prepared nurses in Arkansas, illuminating the tangible benefits of your endeavor.
With a combination of financial aid options and a clear pathway towards higher earnings and job security, this guide equips you with all you need to advance in Arkansas’ dynamic healthcare landscape. Earn your BSN in the heart of the “Natural State” and explore the vibrant opportunities that await.
Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas
#1 in Arkansas
University of Central Arkansas - Conway
201 Donaghey Ave, Conway, AR - 72035-0001
(501) 450-5000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
University Information
Total Faculty: 525
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $9,563
Book and Supplies: $1,200
Percent Received Aid: 97%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,294
Percent Admitted: 94%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 32%
Graduation Rate: 46%
About UCA's Nursing School
As an experienced nurse, you've seen firsthand how healthcare can oscillate, continually evolving. You've probably wondered how you can better navigate these changes and really make a difference for the vanguard of patient care. Emanate a sense of empowerment and rejuvenate your career with the University of Central Arkansas' (UCA) nursing programs.
UCA's nursing school was established in 1967 and has remained an integral part of the university's academic community since its inception. It initiated a graduate program in nursing education (MSE) just three years later, demonstrating its dedication to continual advancement in the field. Get acquainted with UCA Nursing School.
Moreover, their RN to BSN program stands out, especially for working nurses aiming to enhance their capabilities. Imagine propelling your career forward with a BSN degree, and unlocking numerous doors to greater salary potential, expanded career opportunities, eligibility for leadership roles, research participation, and Gateway to advanced degrees.
About UCA's RN to BSN Program
Now, let's focalize on UCA's RN to BSN program. Designed for Registered Nurses (RNs) who are graduates of accredited associate degree or hospital diploma programs, this program is a stepping stone, enabling you to attain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. It's meticulously tailored for the working nurse, offering full-time or part-time plans of study that you can complete fully online. What's more, the program can be finished in as little as 12 months, allowing you to expedite your career enhancement without putting your life on hold.
Curated to meet the standards set by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the RN to BSN curriculum at UCA provides a reputable and high-quality education. The faculty moderate your learning and facilitate the acquisition of advanced practices and research skills. With three start dates each year, you can easily orchestrate your studies around your work schedule and personal commitments.
UCA's RN to BSN curriculum and program outcomes emphasize critical inquiry, communication, responsible living, diversity, collaboration, and professional practice, preparing you to navigate the complexities of the health care landscape confidently. The program requirements entail prior nursing experience, an associate degree or hospital diploma, and several prerequisite courses, aiming to assure that you are well-prepared to undertake this advancement in your career.
Further information about the UCA's RN to BSN program can be found here.
Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways
- Flexible Learning: The program plans can be taken full-time or part-time and are offered entirely online, letting you tailor your education to fit around your busy schedule.
- Quick Completion: With the possibility to complete the program in just one year, you can expedite your professional growth and make a more significant impact sooner.
- Accredited Curriculum: The RN to BSN curriculum meets the CCNE standards, ensuring you receive an education that adheres to the highest standards of quality.
- Competitive Advantage: The BSN degree could open the door to greater salary potentials, expanded career opportunities, and leadership roles.
- Versatile Start Dates: The program offers three start dates each year, giving you the flexibility to begin your studies when it suits you best.
- Designed for Working Nurses: The program has been specifically curated for working nurses, understanding and accommodating the challenges and time constraints you face in your career.
#2 in Arkansas
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing
- 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith, AR - 72913-3649
- (479) 788-7000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 224
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,754
- Book and Supplies: $1,544
- Percent Received Aid: 97%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,210
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 31%
About the Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing
Participation in research, a key component of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, is your gateway to making remarkable contributions in clinical trials and the development of treatment protocols. Enroll at the Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (UAFS), an institution that prudently offers a pathway for registered nurses (RN) to earn their BSN. Being undeniably reputable and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, UAFS's BSN program emphasizes active learning and critical thinking, thereby broadening your horizons to excel in a dynamic healthcare environment.
As if that's not enough, the hard work of the UAFS Nursing program has earned it commendations from Colleges of Distinction, reiterating its commitment to excellence. The school offers copious scholarship opportunities for nursing students thanks to the generosity of UAFS friends and alumni. These scholarships are annually awarded through the UAFS Foundation Lion’s Share program, reducing your financial burden.
Nursing education at UAFS considers the unique needs of students, focusing on their holistic development. Your professional growth is further stimulated through exposure to caring, the art, and the science of the profession. The program aims to transform you into a nurse who can perfectly orchestrate care for diverse clients and exponentially stimulate better health outcomes.
About UAFS's RN to BSN Program
Ready to navigate the evolving terrain of the healthcare industry? The RN to BSN online program at UAFS's got you covered. Notably, this program ranks among the top 20 according to U.S. News and World Report, a testament to its quality.
This program consists of 30 credit hours, and with its flexible and efficient scheduling feature, you can complete your degree in approximately three semesters. The program also offers five start options per year, making it amenable for nurses looking to balance their studies with work and family commitments.
Excavate deeper into the nursing profession with a curriculum that majors on evidence-based practice. You get to synergize theoretical learning with practical experience, consequently bolstering your analytical and critical reasoning skills. The curriculum also aims to enhance your understanding of various issues that impact health care delivery.
What seals the deal is the high-quality student-centered learning and excellence in nursing education offered, backed by the diligent program advisers who are always on standby to facilitate your success.
Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways
- Academic Foundation:Â The RN to BSN program establishes an academic foundation for graduate and/or doctoral studies, paving the way for career advancement.
- Enhancing Skills:Â The program strengthens analytical and clinical reasoning skills and prepares nurses for a broader scope of practice.
- Flexible Learning:Â The program offers flexible degree plans with full-time and part-time enrollment, catering to the unique needs of every student.
- Boosted Earning Potential:Â BSN graduates often earn higher salaries compared to diploma and associate nursing graduates.
- Recognized and Accredited:Â The program is accredited by the CCNE, reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards of education.
#3 in Arkansas
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- 1200 N University Mail Slot 4789, Pine Bluff, AR - 71601
- (870) 575-8000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 201
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $8,398
- Book and Supplies: $1,120
- Percent Received Aid: 99%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $10,474
- Percent Admitted: 60%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
About the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's Nursing School
If you're keen to attain an expanded career as a nurse, then it's time you contemplate enrolling in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. With a BSN degree, you pave the way for specializations in areas such as pediatric, psychiatric, or critical care nursing, thereby broadening your career opportunities. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) presents an ideal environment to commence this journey, offering an RN to BSN program tailor-made for registered nurses aspiring for career advancement.
At UAPB, you'll seamlessly navigate the RN to BSN program, which prudently aligns with the institution's mission and core values. UAPB's mission is to provide high-quality research, teaching, outreach, and service programs that respond to the region's social and economic needs. You'll thrive in an environment that values excellence in all operations, engages in purposeful partnerships, and respects diversity. The institution is committed to promoting globalization, preparing you to operate effectively in a 21st-century global healthcare environment.
UAPB goes above and beyond in maintaining high standards of education. Its nursing program is both approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), testifying to the quality education you can anticipate. You'll also appreciate the school's dedication to integrity and quality customer service, reflecting its accountability as a steward of public trust.
About UAPB's RN to BSN Program
As a registered nurse, you might ask yourself, "What's the next step in my career?" The RN to BSN program at UAPB might be the answer. This unique program is designed to offer registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). The nursing courses in this program are web-based or hybrid, offering scheduling flexibility for RN's who are also full-time professionals.
The program does not merely focus on academics; it emphasizes the development of practical nursing skills. You'll be required to meet some basic functional ability and skill requirements for professional nurses, ensuring you're fit for the profession. Moreover, the program values the diversity of its student population, providing the same opportunities to international students and those who speak English as a second language.
To enter the program, you'll need to fulfill some admission requirements, including possessing a current unencumbered RN License and maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better on prerequisite courses. Once admitted, you'll also need to present evidence of some clinical requirements like TB Skin Test, Hepatitis Series, and Current CPR Certification, to name a few.
Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways
- Flexible Learning:Â UAPB's RN to BSN program is web-based or hybrid, which means you can readily balance your studies with your work commitments.
- Promotion of Diversity:Â UAPB highly respects and champions diversity, ensuring that every student, irrespective of their background, benefits from its program.
- High Standards of Education:Â The UAPB BSN program is approved and accredited by reputable bodies, guaranteeing you receive top-notch education.
- Career Advancement:Â The program provides an avenue for you to enhance your career prospects, opening doors to various nursing specializations.
- Practical Skill Development:Â Besides academics, the program places a heavy emphasis on the development of practical nursing skills, thereby preparing you for real-world challenges.
#4 in Arkansas
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences-Little Rock
- 4301 W Markham, Little Rock, AR - 72205-7199
- (501) 296-1275
- 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
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to PhD, Doctor of Nursing, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 518
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $2,204,374
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
About the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's Nursing School
If you're keen to attain an expanded career as a nurse, then it's time you contemplate enrolling in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. With a BSN degree, you pave the way for specializations in areas such as pediatric, psychiatric, or critical care nursing, thereby broadening your career opportunities. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) presents an ideal environment to commence this journey, offering an RN to BSN program tailor-made for registered nurses aspiring for career advancement.
At UAPB, you'll seamlessly navigate the RN to BSN program, which prudently aligns with the institution's mission and core values. UAPB's mission is to provide high-quality research, teaching, outreach, and service programs that respond to the region's social and economic needs. You'll thrive in an environment that values excellence in all operations, engages in purposeful partnerships, and respects diversity. The institution is committed to promoting globalization, preparing you to operate effectively in a 21st-century global healthcare environment.
UAPB goes above and beyond in maintaining high standards of education. Its nursing program is both approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), testifying to the quality education you can anticipate. You'll also appreciate the school's dedication to integrity and quality customer service, reflecting its accountability as a steward of public trust.
About UAPB's RN to BSN Program
As a registered nurse, you might ask yourself, "What's the next step in my career?" The RN to BSN program at UAPB might be the answer. This unique program is designed to offer registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas the opportunity to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). The nursing courses in this program are web-based or hybrid, offering scheduling flexibility for RN's who are also full-time professionals.
The program does not merely focus on academics; it emphasizes the development of practical nursing skills. You'll be required to meet some basic functional ability and skill requirements for professional nurses, ensuring you're fit for the profession. Moreover, the program values the diversity of its student population, providing the same opportunities to international students and those who speak English as a second language.
To enter the program, you'll need to fulfill some admission requirements, including possessing a current unencumbered RN License and maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better on prerequisite courses. Once admitted, you'll also need to present evidence of some clinical requirements like TB Skin Test, Hepatitis Series, and Current CPR Certification, to name a few.
Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways
- Flexible Learning:Â UAPB's RN to BSN program is web-based or hybrid, which means you can readily balance your studies with your work commitments.
- Promotion of Diversity:Â UAPB highly respects and champions diversity, ensuring that every student, irrespective of their background, benefits from its program.
- High Standards of Education:Â The UAPB BSN program is approved and accredited by reputable bodies, guaranteeing you receive top-notch education.
- Career Advancement:Â The program provides an avenue for you to enhance your career prospects, opening doors to various nursing specializations.
- Practical Skill Development:Â Besides academics, the program places a heavy emphasis on the development of practical nursing skills, thereby preparing you for real-world challenges.
#5 in Arkansas
University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
Eleanor Mann School of Nursing
- Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, AR - 72701
- (479) 575-2000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 1358
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $9,574
- Book and Supplies: $1,100
- Percent Received Aid: 87%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,725
- Percent Admitted: 78%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 31%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
About The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing
If you aspire to enhance your nursing career and explore expanded opportunities, consider the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing's RN to BSN program. Being a reputable, preeminent school at the forefront of academic nursing, it offers you the chance to attain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), thereby expanding your career opportunities to specialized areas like pediatric, psychiatric, or critical care nursing.
The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing prides itself on meticulously preparing nurse leaders of tomorrow. Their programs, being extensively comprehensive, tailor to suit a range of career pathways in nursing. The nursing school boasts small clinical class sizes and low faculty-student ratios, enabling more personalized, one-on-one support from professors. They cultivate a stimulating environment where you can seamlessly navigate varied roles as caregivers, managers, teachers, and researchers. The ultimate goal? To equip you to operate effectively in the exhilarating and sophisticated world of healthcare.
One particularly exciting event to look forward to is the inaugural Nursing Science Day, scheduled for April 27, 2023, focusing on "Optimizing and Transforming Health and Healthcare Delivery Outcomes through Nursing Discovery, Research, and Scholarship." Faculty, students, and healthcare professionals are warmly welcomed to attend and partake in the symposium and abstract submission. Join the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing to blend academic and practical skills and unlock your nursing career's potential. Check the link here for more information.
About The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing's RN to BSN Program
The online RN to BSN program at the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing offers a seamless, flexible avenue to transform your nursing career. If you're a Registered Nurse with an associate's degree and a diploma, you'll find this program beneficial in enhancing your academic status. Earning a bachelor's degree through this program not only improves your earning potential but also opens the door to career advancement opportunities.
The program's key features include full-time faculty members who facilitate an evidence-based approach to nursing which will guide the development of a quality improvement project in your area of interest. This hands-on project requires a total of 75 clinical hours, helping you bolster your practical skills.
The courses, administered entirely online with no campus visit needed, can be completed in as little as one year, providing flexibility especially for working RNs. This innovative program orbits around preparing graduates to provide culturally sensitive, evidence-based care to clients across various roles, enabling you to contribute leadership in promoting quality care and patient safety, utilize healthcare technology and information systems efficaciously, and collaborate with inter-professional teams to improve healthcare outcomes.
Key RN to BSN Student Takeaways
- Holistic, Comprehensive Program:Â Integrates the art and science of nursing, focusing on providing culturally sensitive, evidence-based care.
- Flexible Learning:Â The program is completely online, and courses can be completed in one year, making it fitting for working RNs.
- Quality Education:Â Taught by full-time faculty members ensuring high standards of education.
- Elevated Earning Potential:Â Holding a bachelor's degree enhances your earning potential and opens doors to career advancement opportunities.
- Practical Skill Enhancement:Â The program includes a practical project requiring a total of 75 clinical hours, thereby ensuring you are ready to meet real-world challenges.
See our Ranking Methodology
Admissions Requirements RN to BSN Programs
To enroll in RN to BSN programs in Arkansas, students must meet specific admission requirements. These prerequisites vary between institutions but generally include a set of common criteria. It’s essential to gather the necessary information ahead of time, as some documentation may take a while to obtain. Below is a list of typical admission requirements for Iowa RN to BSN programs:
- Active RN License: Prospective students must hold a current, unencumbered Registered Nurse license in Arkansas or a compact state. Arkansas State Board of Nursing provides more information about licensure.
- Nursing Diploma or Associate Degree: Applicants should have completed a nursing diploma or associate degree program from an accredited institution. The Arkansas Department of Higher Education can help verify program accreditation.
- Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum cumulative GPA, usually around 2.5 or higher, in previous nursing coursework.
- Official Transcripts: Students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
- Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require completion of specific prerequisite courses before admission. These courses may include subjects such as microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and statistics.
- Letters of Recommendation: Some institutions might request letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources who can attest to the applicant’s potential for success in the program.
- Personal Statement or Essay: Programs may require applicants to submit a personal statement or essay detailing their professional goals and reasons for pursuing a BSN degree.
As an optional but crucial step, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the process to explore financial aid options available to them.
Classes & Courses for RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs in Arkansas prepare nurses for career advancement by offering a comprehensive curriculum that builds on existing knowledge and skills. The following list highlights 10 typical courses found in these programs, along with a brief description of what students can expect to learn in each course:
- Health Assessment: This course covers techniques and strategies for conducting comprehensive health assessments, including history-taking, physical examination, and documentation.
- Pathophysiology: Students explore the underlying mechanisms of disease processes and their impact on the human body, enhancing their understanding of illness and injury.
- Pharmacology: This course focuses on the principles of pharmacology, drug classifications, and their therapeutic uses in patient care.
- Nursing Research: Students learn the basics of nursing research methods, data analysis, and evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes.
- Community Health Nursing: This course examines the role of nurses in promoting health and preventing disease within diverse populations and communities.
- Leadership and Management in Nursing: Students develop leadership skills, explore management theories, and learn strategies for effective decision-making in healthcare settings.
- Nursing Informatics: This course introduces students to the use of information technology in healthcare, including electronic health records, data management, and communication tools.
- Nursing Ethics: Students explore ethical principles, dilemmas, and decision-making processes in nursing practice, with an emphasis on patient advocacy and professional responsibility.
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: This course focuses on health promotion strategies and disease prevention interventions for individuals, families, and communities.
- Capstone Project: In this culminating course, students apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world nursing issue or problem through a research project or practice-based initiative.
One example of an Arkansas school offering an RN to BSN program is the University of Arkansas. This institution provides a flexible, online curriculum designed to meet the needs of working nurses seeking career advancement.
Timeline for Online RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs in Arkansas offer flexibility and convenience for working nurses seeking to advance their careers. The admission process, program length, and time to completion vary between institutions but typically follow a similar structure:
Admission Process and Timeline:
- Application Submission: Prospective students should submit their application, along with all required documentation, by the specified deadline. Deadlines may differ between schools and can be found on each institution’s website.
- Admission Decision: Institutions review applications and notify applicants of their decision within a few weeks after the submission deadline. Accepted students will receive information about registration and program orientation.
- Program Start Date: RN to BSN programs in Arkansas often have multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin their studies at a time that best suits their schedule.
Program Length and Time to Completion:
- Program Length: Most online RN to BSN programs in Arkansas can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on the number of credits required and the student’s enrollment status.
- Part-time vs. Full-time Enrollment: Students may choose between part-time or full-time enrollment, depending on their personal and professional commitments. Part-time students generally take longer to complete the program compared to their full-time counterparts.
- Transfer Credits: Some institutions may accept transfer credits from previous nursing coursework or other relevant courses, potentially reducing the time to completion.
Overall, RN to BSN programs in Arkansas are designed to accommodate the needs of working nurses by offering flexibility in both admission processes and program completion timelines. This approach enables students to balance their education with personal and professional responsibilities while pursuing career advancement opportunities.
Scholarships for RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas Registered Nurses pursuing an RN to BSN degree have access to various scholarships that can help ease the financial burden of their education. The following list highlights 10 RN to BSN scholarships available to Arkansas nurses, along with a brief description of each opportunity:
- Arkansas Community Foundation Scholarships: Offers numerous scholarships for Arkansas students, including nursing majors. Deadlines and award amounts vary based on the specific scholarship. Students must apply through the online portal provided by the foundation.
- Arkansas Nurses Foundation Scholarship: Open to Arkansas residents enrolled in accredited nursing programs. Applicants must be members of the Arkansas Nurses Association. Deadline is in June, and award amounts vary.
- Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund: Provides financial support for single parents pursuing higher education in Arkansas, including nursing degrees. Deadlines and award amounts vary based on county of residence. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate financial need.
- Conway Regional Health Foundation Scholarship: Offers scholarships for students pursuing healthcare careers, including nursing, in the Conway area. Applications are due in April, and award amounts vary. Selection is based on academic achievement, community involvement, and career goals.
- Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association (FNSNA) Scholarship: Available to students enrolled in accredited nursing programs across the United States. Award amounts range from $1,000 to $7,500, and applications are due in January. Selection is based on academic achievement, financial need, and involvement in nursing student organizations.
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an essential step in exploring all financial aid opportunities, including private and public scholarships. The FAFSA determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, as well as some state and institutional aid. Submitting the FAFSA early in the process can help students maximize their financial aid options and plan for their educational expenses.
Salary Increases for BSN Degree Earners
Pursuing RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas can significantly impact your earning potential as a nurse. According to the 2023 BSN Comprehensive Salary Report, nurses with a BSN degree typically earn more than their counterparts with an associate degree or diploma in nursing.
Within the first two years of their careers, BSN-prepared nurses often see higher starting salaries compared to those with an associate degree. As their careers progress, the salary gap between BSN and non-BSN nurses continues to widen. After four years, BSN-educated nurses can expect even greater financial rewards due to their advanced education and skillset.
In addition to increased salary potential, earning a BSN degree provides several non-financial benefits:
- Expanded Opportunities: A BSN degree opens doors to a broader range of nursing roles, including leadership positions, specialized clinical roles, and community health settings.
- Higher Skill Level: Completing an RN to BSN program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills and a deeper understanding of evidence-based practice, enhancing their ability to provide high-quality patient care.
- Industry Preference: Many healthcare organizations in Arkansas prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses due to their advanced education and training. Some employers even require a BSN degree for certain nursing positions.
By enrolling in RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas, you invest in your professional development and increase your potential for career advancement and higher earnings.
How to Pay for an RN to BSN
Explore these commonly known and lesser-known options to help pay for RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas:
- Federal Financial Aid: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
- State Aid: Arkansas residents may qualify for state financial aid programs, which provides funding based on financial need and academic achievement.
- Scholarships: Apply for scholarships from various sources, including professional organizations, nursing schools, and community foundations. Many scholarships target specific populations or areas of nursing practice.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for their nursing staff pursuing advanced degrees. Check with your employer for available opportunities.
- Work-Study Programs: Participate in work-study programs, which provide part-time employment opportunities to help cover educational expenses.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Explore loan forgiveness programs such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program or the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which offer loan forgiveness in exchange for service in designated high-need areas.
- Military Benefits: Active-duty military personnel and veterans may qualify for educational benefits through programs like the GI Bill or the Tuition Assistance Program.
- Payment Plans: Many schools offer payment plans that allow students to pay tuition and fees in installments, making it easier to manage the cost of their education.
- Tax Credits: Take advantage of tax credits, such as the Lifetime Learning Credit or the American Opportunity Tax Credit, which can help offset educational expenses.
- Private Student Loans: Consider private student loans from banks or credit unions as a last resort if other funding options do not cover the full cost of your education.
By exploring these funding options, Arkansas nurses can find the financial support they need to complete RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas and advance their careers.
Status for 80 Percent BSN Initiative in Arkansas
Arkansas is working to align with the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) recommendation that 80% of Registered Nurses hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) by 2020. This goal, backed by organizations such as the American Nurses Association and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, aims to improve patient care and outcomes by increasing the education level of the nursing workforce. To support this initiative, RN to BSN programs in Arkansas are expanding to accommodate the growing demand for higher education among nurses.
The Arkansas Action Coalition is actively working towards this goal by promoting nursing education and collaborating with schools, hospitals, and other healthcare organizations. They offer resources and support for nurses seeking to advance their careers through continued education.
The push for an 80% BSN workforce in Arkansas not only benefits patients but also opens up new opportunities for career advancement and higher earning potential for nurses. By pursuing a BSN degree, nurses can contribute to improving healthcare in Arkansas while also enhancing their own professional prospects.
10 Benefits of Earning an RN to BSN
Earning an RN to BSN degree provides numerous benefits for nurses in Arkansas seeking career advancement and professional growth. Explore these 10 advantages of completing RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas:
- Increased Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often earn higher salaries compared to those with an associate degree or diploma in nursing.
- Greater Job Opportunities: A BSN degree opens doors to a wider range of nursing roles, including leadership positions, specialized clinical roles, and community health settings.
- Advanced Clinical Skills: Completing an RN to BSN program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills and a deeper understanding of evidence-based practice, enhancing their ability to provide high-quality patient care.
- Employer Preference: Many healthcare organizations in Arkansas prefer hiring BSN-prepared nurses due to their advanced education and training.
- Continuing Education: A BSN degree serves as a stepping stone for nurses interested in pursuing graduate degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
- Professional Networking: Participating in RN to BSN programs allows nurses to connect with fellow professionals, fostering valuable relationships that can lead to future job opportunities and collaborations.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Research shows that hospitals with a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses have better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer complications.
- Leadership Development: RN to BSN programs often include coursework focused on leadership and management skills, preparing nurses for supervisory roles within their organizations.
- Enhanced Communication Skills: Nurses with a BSN degree typically possess stronger communication skills, enabling them to collaborate more effectively with colleagues and advocate for their patients.
- Greater Autonomy: BSN-prepared nurses may have increased autonomy in their practice, allowing them to make more independent decisions and contribute to patient care at a higher level.
By enrolling in RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas, nurses invest in their professional development and increase their potential for career advancement and personal satisfaction within the nursing field.
More RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas
| University | Offered as | City/State |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences-Little Rock | Campus, Hybrid | Little Rock, AR |
| University of Arkansas-Fayetteville | Campus, Online | Fayetteville, AR |
| University of Central Arkansas – Conway | Campus, Online | Conway, AR |
| University of Arkansas-Fort Smith | Campus, Online | Fort Smith, AR |
| University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | Campus | Pine Bluff, AR |
RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in Arkansas
Arkansas nurses pursuing an RN to BSN degree have access to various resources that can assist them in their educational and professional journey. The following list highlights organizations and resources specifically tailored for RN to BSN nurses in Arkansas:
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing: This state agency is responsible for licensing, regulating, and monitoring the practice of nursing in Arkansas, ensuring the highest level of patient care.
- Arkansas Nurses Association: A professional organization dedicated to promoting the nursing profession in Arkansas, offering networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy for its members.
- RN to BSN Programs in Your State: A comprehensive resource providing information on RN to BSN programs across the United States, including RN to BSN programs in Arkansas.
- Arkansas Center for Nursing: This organization aims to advance nursing workforce development, offering resources such as leadership training, research opportunities, and workforce data for nurses in Arkansas.
- American Nurses Association (ANA) – Arkansas Affiliate: As an affiliate of the ANA, this organization provides access to national resources, professional development opportunities, and advocacy initiatives for Arkansas nurses.
These resources can help guide RN to BSN students and graduates in Arkansas as they navigate their education and career paths, ensuring a successful transition into higher levels of nursing practice.
Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Your State
Elevate your nursing career with our curated list of the best RN to BSN programs in each state. Transitioning from a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) opens doors to broader career prospects and deeper clinical knowledge. Our guide spotlights premier programs close to you, paving a well-marked path towards achieving your enhanced nursing ambitions.
See our ranking methodology for RN-to-BSN degree programs.
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After graduating with a degree in English Literature from UCLA, Jeff published four editions of the World Wide Web Yellow Pages by Barnes and Noble, and several editions of the Best of the Web. He’s worked as an executive at both startup and mature companies including CareerPath.com and Microsoft. With nearly three decades of publishing and business development expertise, he now puts that experience to use operating RNCareers.org to help future nursing students get reliable information on registered nursing careers.
