Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Arkansas | 2025

Arkansas offers several highly-regarded Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, preparing students for the highest level of advanced practice registered nursing (APRN). Learn more about the top NP programs in Arkansas below, including program overview, costs, salary expectations, and tips to choose the best NP Program for you. 

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arkansas - Online & Campus

What Is a Nurse Practitioner Program?

An NP Program in Arkansas is a graduate-level pathway designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training, equipping nurses to deliver enhanced healthcare services, including patient diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management.

Graduates of nurse practitioner programs emerge as skilled advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), ready to work in various settings such as hospitals, primary care clinics, emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, and private practices. NPs play a crucial role in bridging the care gap and improving access to healthcare, addressing the shortage of MDs. For nurses seeking career advancement, higher earning potential, and increased responsibilities in patient care, NP programs offer a path to the pinnacle of nursing practice.

Primary NP Responsibilities

While roles and responsibilities vary with different NP specialties and state regulations, primary NP responsibilities include:

• Performing comprehensive physical health evaluations
• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, lab work)
• Diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions
• Prescribing medications and treatments
• Educating patients on prevention, treatment options, and self-care strategies

NP Specialty Concentrations

Arkansas offers numerous NP specializations, with the most common being:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive health care for individuals of all ages, focusing on wellness, illness prevention, and managing long-term health issues. They often serve as primary healthcare providers for families.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in women's health from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer care in reproductive health, gynecology, prenatal, and postpartum support.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs cater to adults from young adulthood to old age, addressing acute and chronic health conditions with a focus on personalized health education and promotion.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with significant health issues. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) alongside a multidisciplinary medical team.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the health and development of children from infancy to adolescence. They manage common childhood illnesses, conduct routine wellness checks, and provide guidance on nutrition and growth.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in mental health care, performing assessments, offering therapeutic interventions, and providing comprehensive care for various mental health conditions.

Other less common NP specializations include areas like oncology, neurology, cardiology, or nephrology. Additionally, some programs offer the option to choose between a primary or acute care path in concentrations like pediatric or gerontology. 

NP Coursework in Arkansas

While specifics can vary by program and specialty, common NP courses include:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding the changes in normal body functions that result from diseases.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Detailed study of how drugs interact with the human body and impact diseases.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Training in comprehensive physical and psychological assessment of patients across different age groups.
• Primary Care Practices: Focusing on the primary healthcare needs of various populations.
• Specialty Courses: Depending on the NP's chosen specialty, courses may include pediatrics, gerontology, family care, psychiatric-mental health, or women's health.
• Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Understanding the legal, ethical, and policy aspects of healthcare.
• Research Methods: Training in research methodologies relevant to clinical practice.
• Clinical Decision Making: Enhancing skills in making effective and informed clinical decisions.

NP Clinical Training in Arkansas

Clinical training is a crucial part of NP programs, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. In Arkansas clinical training requirements can differ based on the program and specialty.

Per the AACN Essentials all advanced-level nursing programs require 500 practice hours that cover both direct and indirect experiences. Specifically for NP programs, the National Task Force Standards for Quality NP Education (NTFS) mandate a minimum of 750 direct patient care hours.. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs typically require 1,000 or more clinical hours.

Students usually rotate through diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers to gain comprehensive experience. Training is supervised by experienced nurse practitioners and physicians, ensuring guided and practical learning. Depending on the program's focus, students receive training in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, or psychiatric health, with an emphasis on either primary or acute care.

NP Educational Pathways

The admission requirements, clinical hour requirements, and curriculum in NP programs vary based on the educational route you take. Here are the three most common pathways:

1. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A 2-3 year program combining coursework and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for NP certification.
2. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A 3-4 year program focused on advanced clinical practice, including extensive practicum and a scholarly project.
3. Post-Master's Certificate: A one-year program for RNs with an MSN or DNP, offering specialization in an NP role and preparation for NP certification.

For these three main pathways, nursing education and experience are required; prospective students without nursing experience should consider Direct Entry NP (DENP) Programs

NP Program Graduation Requirements

To graduate from an NP Program in Arkansas students will generally need to meet the following requirements, though specifics can vary by program:

• Complete Coursework: Finish courses in advanced pharmacology, advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and specialty-focused subjects.
• Minimum GPA: Maintain a minimum GPA in courses or overall curriculum, as specified by the program.
• Clinical Hours: Complete a minimum of 750 supervised clinical hours in relevant settings.
• Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs require a capstone project or thesis to demonstrate the practical application of skills and knowledge.

Arkansas NP Program Admission Requirements

Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Arkansas must meet several prerequisites and requirements to ensure they're able to meet the demands of the education and role:

• Educational Background: A BSN or MSN from an accredited institution is required.
• Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure: Candidates must hold an active and unrestricted RN license in Arkansas or a compact state.
• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
• Academic Performance: A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4-point scale is usually required.
• Prerequisite Courses: Completion of certain undergraduate courses, such as statistics, with a minimum grade requirement (often a grade of C or higher).
• Clinical Experience: Prior clinical experience as a registered nurse is often required, although the specifics can vary by program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
• Personal Statement: A statement of career goals and motivations for pursuing an NP degree is typically required.
• Resume or CV: Submission of a current resume or CV detailing educational and professional experiences is usually necessary.
• Interview: An in-person or virtual interview to assess the candidate's suitability and dedication to the NP specialization.

Additional requirements to begin clinicals in most nursing programs typically include a background check, physical health screening, immunizations, and a drug test.

Cost of NP Programs in Arkansas

Commencing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Arkansas involves significant financial considerations, encompassing several key aspects:

• Tuition Fees: Tuition constitutes a major part of the educational cost, varying based on whether the school is public or private and the student's eligibility for in-state tuition, which is typically lower. Fees may be charged per credit or per academic term.
• Educational Materials: The budget must include costs for textbooks, medical equipment like stethoscopes, and professional attire such as lab coats.
• Clinical Rotation Costs: Travel expenses to clinical rotations can add to the financial burden, particularly if the locations are distant from the student's residence or the university campus.
• Post-Graduation Expenses: Upon completion of their studies, NP graduates encounter fees for certification and licensing, which are essential for commencing their professional careers.
• Additional Charges: Students may also face additional costs related to accessing university facilities, laboratory usage, and various administrative fees.
• Impact on Living Expenses and Income: Full-time study can significantly affect both living costs and the ability to work, necessitating careful financial planning.

Financial Aid Overview

By utilizing  financial strategies, students can better manage their education costs and concentrate on their path to becoming skilled healthcare providers. For additional information, check out the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and explore the Most Affordable NP Programs in 2025 to reduce overall tuition costs. 

Arkansas NP Salary Expectations 2025

Overall, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the projected employment of NPs is expected to grow 40%  from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations.

Per the most recent BLS data, the mean NP salary in Arkansas is $113,410 or $54.53 per hour, which is lower than the national average of $128,490, or $61.78 per hour—a difference of approximately 12%. However, job prospects in Arkansas are good, with the state having at least 3,300 NP positions in 2023, placing the state just below the 50th percentile for nursing positions nationwide.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

The average salaries for NP specialties are:

• PMHNP: $139,486
• FNP: $130,295
• PNP: $135,161
• NNP: $139,590
• WHNP: $114,532
• AGNP: $242,952

^{NP specialty salary data by ZipRecruiter.}

Industries with the highest levels of employment and the pay for NPs include:

• Offices of Physicians (137,030 NPs) $122,780
• General Medical & Surgical Hospitals (61,740 NPs) $135,610
• Outpatient Care Centers (25,440 NPs) $139,860
• Offices of Other Health Practitioners (11,400) $121,250
• Home Health Care Services (7,410 NPs) $146,850

When considering salary projections, it's important to account for various factors. These include your educational background, years of experience, the healthcare institution where you work, your employer, the demand for your nursing specialization, and your work schedule, including shifts and hours.

To understand your potential income fully, explore the specifics of your situation and your employer's compensation policies. You can compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Are NP Programs in Arkansas Worth It?

Whether an NP Program is worth it in Arkansas depends on individual career goals, interests, and the desire for advanced practice. While becoming an NP comes with many advantages, it's also important to consider their disadvantages.

Pros of NP Programs in Arkansas

• Higher Earning Potential: NPs generally earn a higher salary compared to registered nurses, reflecting their advanced skills and responsibilities.
• Increased Autonomy: NPs often have more independence in their practice, including diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and developing treatment plans.
• Specialization Opportunities: NP programs offer various specializations, such as family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatry, allowing for focused career paths in areas of interest.
• High Demand: There is a growing demand for healthcare services and a shortage of primary care providers, which increases job security and opportunities for NPs.
• Positive Impact on Patient Care: NPs play a crucial role in improving access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas, and often provide a holistic approach to patient care.

Cons of NP Programs in Arkansas

1. Cost and Time Investment: NP programs can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring several years of study beyond the registered nursing level.
2. Stress and Responsibility: The role of an NP comes with increased responsibilities and decision-making, which can be stressful and demanding.
3. State-by-State Regulation Variability: The scope of practice for NPs varies by state, which can limit practice authority in some regions.
4. Competitive Admission Process: Gaining admission into NP programs can be competitive, requiring excellent academic records and professional experience.
5. Continuing Education Requirements: NPs must engage in ongoing education and recertification to maintain their licensure and stay current with medical advancements.

NPs enjoy a high degree of autonomy, increased responsibility, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient care. They often have higher earning potential compared to RNs and can specialize in areas of healthcare that interest them most. However, these programs require a substantial investment of time, effort, and finances, and the increased responsibilities come with their own set of challenges.

Arkansas NP Scope of Practice Considerations

For Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Arkansas, understanding national certification requirements and Arkansas's specific practice settings is crucial for career planning and lawful practice.

NP Certification

Achieving national certification is a critical milestone for NPs in every state, signifying specialty-specific competence. This certification validates an NP's expertise and is commonly required for state licensure. The principal organizations that offer NP certifications include:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Provides certifications for FNP, AG-ACNP, ENP, and PMHNP.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Offers ten NP specialization certifications. 
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Specializes in certifications for Adult Acute Care NPs.
• The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Offers certifications for Neonatal NPs (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NPs (WHNP-BC).
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Provides certifications for Pediatric Acute Care and Primary Care NPs.

Such national certification is foundational to NP practice, promoting uniform standards of proficiency across various specialties.

NP State Licensure | Arkansas

In Arkansas, NPs are subject to a reduced practice regulatory framework, requiring them to collaborate with a physician in at least one area of practice. This collaboration or supervision is necessary for tasks such as prescribing medications, highlighting a regulated collaborative NP practice set by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. 

NP Practice Authority Nationally

Arkansas is among the states with reduced practice authority. Here is how it compares with other regulatory models, as defined by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP):

• Full Practice States: States like New York and Washington grant NPs complete autonomy, including the ability to assess, diagnose, and prescribe without physician oversight.
• Reduced Practice States: These eleven states, including Arkansas, require physician collaboration for certain NP duties.
• Restricted Practice States: Fifteen states, like California or Florida, impose stricter supervisory requirements for NPs.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for NPs considering employment in different states.

State-Specific NP Licensure Requirements

While national certification standards remain consistent, state-specific licensure requirements can vary significantly. The APRN Compact aims to standardize these requirements, facilitating a smoother licensure process. NPs must ensure their credentials align with the licensure demands set by the board of nursing in the state in which they intend to practice. 

Tips to Choose the Best NP Program for You

Selecting the right NP Program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. A survey by allnurses revealed the top reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High Pass Rates
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

For prospective NP students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen NP specialty.
• Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
• Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support. 
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state you want to work. 

Selecting the right NP Program depends on your personal preferences and career goals. By evaluating these elements, you can find a program that best fits your needs.

Why NP Program Accreditation Matters

1. Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
2. Ensures compliance with state regulations
3. Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
4. Supports APRN licensure eligibility
5. Prepares for certification exams
6. Facilitates credit transfers
7. Enhances professional credibility
8. Improves employment prospects
9. Enables access to financial aid
10. Promotes long-term career success

In light of these factors, aspiring NPs are recommended to choose programs accredited by reputable organization like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accrediation (NLN CNEA).

Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can out-of-state students enroll in Arkansas's online MSN NP programs, and are there differences in tuition?

Out-of-state students can enroll in Arkansas's online MSN NP programs. However, tuition rates may vary between in-state and out-of-state students. Some online programs offer a flat tuition rate regardless of residency, but it's important to check with the specific institution for their tuition policies.

Q: What are the key competencies developed in Arkansas's NP programs for advanced practice registered nursing?

Arkansas's NP programs focus on developing competencies in areas such as advanced clinical skills, patient-centered care, interprofessional collaboration, health care policy, leadership in health care systems, and evidence-based practice. These competencies are essential for NPs to provide high-quality care in various healthcare settings.

Q: How many credit hours and clinical hours are typically required in NP degree programs in Arkansas?

The number of credit hours for NP degree programs in Arkansas varies, typically ranging from 35 to 50 credit hours for MSN programs and more for DNP programs. Clinical hour requirements also vary but generally include at least 500-1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, depending on the program and specialization.

Q: Are there part-time options available for NP programs in Arkansas, and how does this affect the duration of the program?

Many NP programs in Arkansas offer part-time options to accommodate working professionals. Part-time students take fewer courses each semester, extending the duration of the program. While a full-time NP Program might take 2-3 years to complete, a part-time program could take 3-5 years, depending on the number of credits taken per semester.

Q: What are the typical admission requirements for NP programs in Arkansas, and do they include on-campus components?

Admission requirements for NP programs in Arkansas typically include a BSN degree, a current RN license, a minimum GPA (often around 3.0), specific undergraduate coursework, clinical experience, letters of recommendation, and a background check. Some programs may have on-campus components, such as orientations or intensive workshops, even if the program is primarily online.

Edited Oct 19 by Erin Lee