Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas | 2025

From entry-level nursing programs to graduate degrees equipping students to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), discover the best nursing schools in Arkansas.

best nursing programs arkansas
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Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

Arkansas, located in the southern United States, offers a wide array of nursing programs for aspiring nurses at various stages of their careers.

Whether you're beginning with entry-level nursing education, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), advancing as a registered nurse (RN) through an RN to BSN program, or pursuing an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Arkansas has options to support your goals.

Start your nursing journey or advance your career by exploring Arkansas's top nursing schools, and gain insights into studying in the Natural State, along with expected salaries after graduation.

Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas 2025 — Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 4301 W Markham, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Research Institution
    • 81% Graduation Rate
    • 1,287 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,941 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 28 Average Age
    • 16% Men
    • 84% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 16% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  2. #2 University of Arkansas

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Arkansas is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1125 W Maple St, Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, US
    • 1-479-575-3904

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • 66% Graduation Rate
    • 26,002 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,667 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 Harding University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Harding University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 915 E Market Ave, Searcy, Arkansas 72149, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 45% Acceptance Rate
    • 66% Graduation Rate
    • 3,198 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,282 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 University of Arkansas at Little Rock

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 2801 S. University Ave, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204, US
    • 1-501-569-8081

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • 41% Graduation Rate
    • 4,802 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,372 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 25 Average Age
    • 37% Men
    • 63% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 70% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 26% Black
    • 1% Asian
    • Specialty
      Format
      Tuition
      Score
    • Traditional BSN BSN
      On-Campus Program
      $27,240 In-State Tuition
      4.4 Program Score
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 Henderson State University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Henderson State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1100 Henderson Street, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71999, US
    • 1-870-230-5015

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 71% Acceptance Rate
    • 39% Graduation Rate
    • 1,800 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 712 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 48% Men
    • 52% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 16% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 University of Central Arkansas

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Central Arkansas is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 201 Donaghey Ave, Conway, Arkansas 72035, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 45% Graduation Rate
    • 7,563 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,919 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 38% Men
    • 62% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 80% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 17% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 Arkansas Northeastern College

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Arkansas Northeastern College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including LPN/LVN, and ADN/ASN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 2501 S Division, Blytheville, Arkansas 72316, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Associate's Colleges: Mixed Transfer/Career & Technical-Mixed Traditional/Nontraditional
    • 33% Graduation Rate
    • 748 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 32% Men
    • 68% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 72% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 25% Black
    • 0% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 Baptist Health College Little Rock

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Baptist Health College Little Rock is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including LPN/LVN, and ADN/ASN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.

    • 11900 COLONEL GLENN RD STE 1000, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Special Focus Two-Year: Health Professions
    • 69% Graduation Rate
    • 549 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 10% Men
    • 90% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 76% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 21% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Arkansas Tech University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Arkansas Tech University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, and LPN/LVN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • Administration Bldg 200, 1509 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, Arkansas 72801, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 47% Graduation Rate
    • 6,108 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 723 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  10. #10 Southeast Arkansas College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Southeast Arkansas College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including CNA, and LPN/LVN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 1900 S Hazel Street, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71603, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Associate's Colleges: High Transfer-High Nontraditional
    • 26% Graduation Rate
    • 789 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 26% Men
    • 74% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 54% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 44% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  11. #11 Arkansas State University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Arkansas State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, CNS, CRNA, DNP, Entry Level BSN, LPN to BSN, MSN, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 53% Graduation Rate
    • 7,463 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,989 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 38% Men
    • 62% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 0% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  12. #12 Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas is a public and non-profit Community College. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including LPN/LVN, and ADN/ASN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

    • 183 College Drive, De Queen, Arkansas 71832, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Associate's Colleges: High Transfer-Mixed Traditional/Nontraditional
    • 31% Graduation Rate
    • 833 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 32% Men
    • 68% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 9% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 0% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  13. #13 Jefferson Regional School of Nursing

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Jefferson Regional School of Nursing is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.

    • 1600 West 40th Avenue, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71603, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • Less-than-4-year institution
    • Special Focus Two-Year: Health Professions
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 89% Graduation Rate
    • 69 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 25% Men
    • 75% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 66% White
    • 1% Hispanic
    • 31% Black
    • 0% Asian

  14. #14 Northwest Technical Institute

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Northwest Technical Institute is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of programs—including degrees. and the institution is regionally accredited by the Council on Occupational Education.

    • 709 S Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, Arkansas 72764, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Arkansas
    • Less-than-2-year
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 67% Graduation Rate
    • 201 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 73% Men
    • 27% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 1% Black
    • 1% Asian
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Why Go to Nursing School in Arkansas?

Studying nursing in Arkansas offers a unique educational experience within the context of the state's healthcare landscape and educational institutions. Here's what to expect:

  • Nursing Improvements: Arkansas is addressing its nursing workforce challenges by introducing high school healthcare training programs, implementing residency nursing programs to reduce turnover, and creating new licensed roles in areas like behavioral health to meet growing healthcare demand across the state.
  • Academic Excellence: Arkansas is home to several reputable universities and colleges with nursing programs that offer high-quality education. These institutions have a strong focus on nursing education and produce well-trained nurses who are prepared for the challenges of the healthcare industry.
  • Clinical Opportunities: Arkansas provides a wide range of clinical experiences for nursing students. You can gain practical experience in diverse settings, from urban hospitals in cities like Little Rock to rural clinics in more remote areas of the state. These opportunities allow you to develop a broad skill set and adapt to different healthcare environments.
  • Diverse Patient Populations: Studying in Arkansas exposes nursing students to a diverse patient population, including various ethnicities and cultures. This diversity enhances cultural competency, a vital skill for healthcare professionals in an increasingly multicultural society.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Many nursing schools in Arkansas boast modern, state-of-the-art facilities, simulation labs, and cutting-edge technology. These resources provide students with a hands-on learning experience that mirrors real-world healthcare settings.
  • Natural Beauty: Arkansas is known for its natural beauty, including the picturesque Ozark Mountains, the Arkansas River, and numerous parks and wilderness areas. Exploring these natural wonders can be a great way to relax and recharge from the demands of nursing studies.
  • Growing Healthcare Industry: Arkansas's healthcare sector is expanding, providing ample job opportunities for nursing graduates. The state's healthcare facilities are continually seeking well-trained nurses to meet the healthcare needs of the growing population.
  • Cultural Diversity: The state's diverse culture extends beyond the healthcare setting. Arkansas's cities, including Little Rock, offer a mix of cultural events, festivals, and dining experiences, enriching your life outside of academics.
  • Nursing Associations: Arkansas has active nursing associations and professional organizations that provide networking opportunities, support, and resources for nursing students and professionals. These organizations can be valuable for career development and continuing education.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Arkansas is generally lower than in many other states, making it an attractive option for students looking for affordable education and living expenses.

Arkansas combines academic excellence, diverse clinical experiences, the opportunity to explore natural beauty, and a growing healthcare industry. It's an attractive destination for those aspiring to start or advance their nursing careers while enjoying the unique cultural and natural offerings of the state.

Steps to Become a Nurse in Arkansas

Becoming a nurse in Arkansas involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to patients. Whether you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or advance your career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), following the right educational and licensure pathways is crucial.

RN Requirements in Arkansas

  1. Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
  2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
  3. Apply for RN Licensure: Submit an application for RN licensure to the Arkansas Board of Nursing (ASBN). This process typically involves providing your transcripts, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN, and completing a background check. For details specific to Arkansas, be sure to check the ASBN website.
  4. Obtain a Nursing License: Once your application is approved, you will be issued an RN license, allowing you to practice as a Registered Nurse in Arkansas.
  5. Pursue Continuing Education: In Arkansas, RNs are required to complete 15 continuing education unit hours (CEUs) every two years for license renewal, for more details visit the ASBN website, as some states require specific CE units in areas like pain management or child abuse.

APRN Requirements in Arkansas

  1. Obtain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in Arkansas.
  2. Earn a Graduate Degree: Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role — e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife.
  3. Gain Clinical Experience: APRN programs require specific clinical hours based on your specialty and degree. All graduate-level nursing programs mandate a minimum of 500 clinical hours post-graduate. The National Task Force Standards for NP Education requires at least 750 clinical hours for NP graduates, while DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 hours. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing advanced nursing skills.
  4. Pass a National Certification Exam: After completing your graduate program, you must pass a national certification exam specific to your APRN role and specialization.
    • CNMs via the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
    • CNSs via the  National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). 
    • NPs via the American Association of Nurse Practitioners  American Nurses(AANP) or the Credentialing Center (ANCC).
    • CRNA's via  the National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA).
  5. Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the Arkansas Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience.
  6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in Arkansas must fulfill both state licensure and national certification requirements. For detailed APRN license renewal guidelines, visit the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website.

Arkansas Nurse Salary & Employment Outlook 2025 

Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.

Registered Nurses salary in Arkansas falls below the national average at a mean annual salary of $72,900 or $35.05 an hour. 

The highest salary states for RNs include:

  • California: $137,690.00
  • Hawaii: $119,710.00
  • Massachusetts: $113,440.00
  • Oregon: $111,030.00
  • Alaska: $109,210.00

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not distinguish between nursing degree levels in its data, most nurses who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MSN or DNP, aim to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — which includes Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Nurse Anesthetists (DNAP/CRNAs).

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for APRNs is $129,480, with employment in these roles expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting strong demand for advanced practice nurses.

In Arkansas, APRNs earn the following mean annual salaries:

  • Nurse Practitioners: $113,410.00
  • Certified Nurse Midwives: No CNM data for Arkansas
  • Nurse Anesthetists: No CRNA data for Arkansas

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Arkansas

Selecting the right nursing program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

  1. Cost
  2. High NCLEX-RN 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 Course

For prospective doctorate and master's degree nursing students, additional considerations include:

  • Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
  • Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
  • Certification Pass Rates: Check program national certification success rates.
  • Clinical Training: Diverse, high-quality clinical placements and/or 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 where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional nursing program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated nursing program might be the better choice.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Nursing School in Arkansas

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in Arkansas is important for several reasons:

  • Assurance of Educational Quality: Accredited nursing schools undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and clinical training meet high standards. This guarantees that students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education, equipping them with the skills needed for successful nursing careers.
  • Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is often necessary to meet state licensure requirements. Without attending an accredited school, students may find it challenging or even impossible to obtain the necessary credentials to practice as a registered nurse.
  • Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize hiring graduates from accredited nursing programs because these programs are recognized for maintaining high educational standards. This preference can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities in the nursing field.
  • Ease of Credit Transfer: Credits earned at an accredited nursing school are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is particularly important for students who may wish to transfer schools or pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
  • Professional Credibility: Completing a program at an accredited nursing school adds to a nurse's professional credibility. It demonstrates that their education aligns with national standards, which is essential for advancing in the nursing profession.
  • Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for accessing federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Attending an accredited school ensures that students can receive the financial support they need to complete their education.

Given these points, it's important prospective students research whether their choice of nursing school is accredited by a recognized body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

More Top Nursing Programs & Schools in Arkansas

If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across Arkansas, tailored to various career paths and levels. Find the best program for you, whether you're looking to advance your nursing career or specialize in a specific area. Check out these resources:

Pre-Nursing Programs in Maryland

Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Maryland

Graduate Nursing Programs in Maryland

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there opportunities for continuing education and specialization in nursing in Arkansas?

Yes, nurses in Arkansas can pursue continuing education, certifications, and advanced degrees to specialize in areas such as critical care, pediatrics, oncology, and more. Nursing schools and professional organizations often offer resources to support ongoing professional development.

Q: What is the cost of nursing education in Arkansas?

Tuition costs vary depending on the type of program and the institution you choose. Public universities and community colleges tend to have lower tuition rates for in-state residents. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities are available to help offset tuition costs.

Q: Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Whether it's better to have an MSN or a DNP depends on your career goals, the specific role you aspire to, and your personal circumstances. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

MSN:

  • Advanced Clinical Practice: An MSN is suitable if you want to become an advanced practice nurse, such as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or clinical nurse specialist. MSN programs provide specialized clinical training and prepare you for advanced patient care.
  • Quicker Entry into Practice: MSN programs are typically shorter in duration than DNP programs, allowing you to enter the workforce more quickly. This can be advantageous if you want to start your nursing career sooner.
  • Focused on Clinical Skills: MSN programs emphasize clinical skills, making them a good choice if you intend to primarily focus on patient care and clinical practice.

DNP:

  • Advanced Practice and Leadership: A DNP is ideal if you aspire to hold leadership roles in nursing or want to combine advanced clinical practice with leadership responsibilities. DNPs are trained to lead healthcare organizations and drive evidence-based practice.
  • Highest Clinical Expertise: While DNPs can also work in clinical practice, they often seek the highest level of clinical expertise in their specialty. This makes them suitable for roles demanding in-depth knowledge and complex patient care.
  • Advocacy and Policy Influence: If you're interested in influencing healthcare policy, improving patient outcomes, or contributing to research and evidence-based practice, a DNP can equip you with the skills needed to effect change in the healthcare system.
  • Research and Scholarly Pursuits: DNPs are often involved in research and scholarship, which can be appealing if you have a passion for advancing nursing science and practice.

The choice between an MSN and a DNP depends on your career aspirations. If you want to focus primarily on advanced clinical practice, an MSN is a suitable choice. If you aim to take on leadership roles, conduct research, or influence healthcare policy, a DNP may better align with your goals.

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