Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas for 2025

🏥 Top Nursing Schools in Arkansas (2025)

1. Harding University – Carr College of Nursing (Searcy, AR)

• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.36% (2023)
• Tuition: $21,690 per year
• Programs: Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN (16 months), RN to BSN, MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner
• Highlights: Consistently high NCLEX pass rates and a 100% job placement rate within 9 months of graduation. 

2. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) – College of Nursing (Little Rock, AR)

• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.7% (2023-24)
• Tuition: $334 per credit hour (in-state), $645 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, Ph.D., Nurse Anesthesia
• Highlights: Located in Arkansas' only academic health science center, offering diverse clinical experiences. ​

3. Arkansas State University – School of Nursing (Jonesboro, AR)

• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% (2024)
• Tuition: $218 per credit hour (in-state), $450 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN (with tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator)
• Highlights: Offers both online and on-campus learning options with a strong NCLEX pass rate. ​

4. University of Arkansas – Eleanor Mann School of Nursing (Fayetteville, AR)

• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 88.1%
• Tuition: $339.22 per credit hour (in-state), $1,187.52 (out-of-state)
• Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN, MSN (Nurse Educator), DNP
• Highlights: Received $1.2 million in grants to support nursing education and address the nursing shortage. ​

5. University of Arkansas at Little Rock – School of Nursing (Little Rock, AR)

• NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 83%
• Tuition: $6,495 (in-state), $18,750 (out-of-state)
• Programs: AASN, BSN, LPN/Paramedic to RN (AASN), RN to BSN (online)
• Highlights: Offers flexible scheduling options, including online BSN programs for working students. ​

🎓 Choosing the Right Program

When selecting a nursing program, consider the following factors:

• NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher pass rates often indicate better preparation for licensure exams.
• Tuition Costs: Evaluate in-state vs. out-of-state tuition and available financial aid.
• Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the specific nursing track you're interested in.
• Clinical Opportunities: Look for programs with diverse and ample clinical placement options.​

📌 Next Steps

• Research: Visit each school's website to learn more about their programs and admission requirements.
• Contact Admissions: Reach out to admissions counselors for personalized guidance.
• Prepare: Gather necessary documents, such as transcripts and letters of recommendation.
• Apply: Submit applications before deadlines and prepare for any required entrance exams or interviews.​

For more information on nursing programs and to explore job opportunities, visit GoodWork World.