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.
