The midwestern state of Arkansas is known for its scenic landscapes, from the Ozark Mountains to the lush forests and tranquil rivers. Beyond its natural beauty, Arkansas also offers a growing reputation for higher education, making it an attractive destination for nurses seeking Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs that meet their career goals.

Earning an accredited MSN is a vital step for nurses aiming to advance their practice and become nurse practitioners, whether in rural areas or urban centers like Little Rock and Fayetteville. If you’re considering this path, explore the sections below to learn about the various MSN programs and bridge options available in Arkansas, along with admission requirements and tips for finding the most affordable and efficient routes to earning your degree.

2026 Best Online MSN Programs in Arkansas

Looking for the best online MSN programs in Arkansas? RegisteredNursing.org has carefully ranked top options to help you find a quality program that fits your needs. Online programs offer great flexibility for busy nurses who want to advance their careers while balancing work and life. You can study from anywhere, making it easier to earn your degree without relocating. Our rankings highlight schools with strong distance learning options and supportive virtual classrooms. Check out our full list to compare programs and find the right fit for your goals. Learn more about how we create our rankings at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, AR - Public 4-Year - hsu.edu

BSN to MSN - MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Henderson State University's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares RNs for advanced primary care roles across all life stages. This 45-credit program includes 540 practicum hours and requires a two-day on-campus session for hands-on assessment training. It prepares graduates for national certification and requires 2000+ RN hours for admission. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's-level program.

  • Online MSN-FNP program
  • 45 total credit hours
  • 540 practicum hours
  • Two-day face-to-face session
  • Requires 2000+ RN hours
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Primary care across lifespan
  • Advanced assessment training
  • Flexible regional practicum
  • Unencumbered RN license required

RN to BSN to MSN - MSN Nursing Executive Leadership and Administration

Online Learning - Visit Website

Henderson State University's online MSN Nursing Executive Leadership and Administration program prepares nurses for management roles like nurse manager or chief nursing officer. This 33-credit program includes 300 practicum hours with no on-campus requirements and covers resource management, informatics, and quality improvement. Graduates may qualify for ANCC Advanced Nurse Executive Certification. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's-level program.

  • Online program delivery
  • 33 total credit hours
  • 300 practicum hours required
  • Bachelor's degree in nursing needed
  • Unencumbered RN license required
  • Focus on leadership and administration
  • No on-campus component
  • Eligible for ANCC certification
  • Includes informatics coursework
  • Covers organizational management
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arkansas State University's online MSN-FNP program delivers comprehensive primary care training across all age groups through a fully digital format. This ACEN-accredited curriculum requires 41.5 credits over 24 months, costing $15,355 total. Admission mandates a BSN with 3.25 GPA and current RN license, but no entrance exam is specified. The program prepares graduates for national certification with 750 clinical hours, offering flexibility for working nurses seeking expanded practice scope.

  • 100% online coursework
  • 41.5 total credit hours
  • Total tuition $15,355
  • 24-month program length
  • ACEN-accredited program
  • BSN required for admission
  • Minimum 3.25 GPA
  • Next start date 3/10/25
  • 750 total clinical hours
  • Prepares for national certification

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Focusing on acute care for adolescent through geriatric patients, Arkansas State University's online MSN-AGACNP program develops advanced clinical skills for complex healthcare environments. This ACEN-accredited program spans 24 months with 41.5 credits at $15,355 tuition. Admission requires BSN, RN license, 1,500 practice hours, and 3.25 GPA, with no entrance exam mentioned. Graduates qualify for ANCC/AACN certification exams, preparing for roles in emergency, ICU, and specialty settings.

  • 100% online coursework
  • ACEN-accredited program
  • 41.5 total credit hours
  • 24-month completion option
  • $15,355 total tuition
  • Prepares for ANCC/AACN exams
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • 3.25 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Six practicum courses
  • Practice in acute care settings

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Addressing critical mental health needs, Arkansas State University's online PMHNP program trains nurses to provide psychiatric care across diverse populations. This 26-month, ACEN-accredited program comprises 47.5 credits at $23,750 total cost. Admission requires BSN and RN license, with no entrance exam specified. Students complete clinicals locally while preparing for ANCC certification, gaining skills to treat complex mental health challenges through entirely online coursework.

  • 100% online coursework
  • 26 months program length
  • 47.5 total credit hours
  • Total tuition $23,750
  • ACEN-accredited program
  • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Clinicals near home

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Administrator

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arkansas State University's online MSN Nurse Administrator program equips nurses for leadership roles with business-focused curriculum covering budgeting, policy, and management. This 14-month program requires 34 credits at $11,560 total tuition and holds ACEN accreditation. Admission mandates BSN, RN license, and 3.0 GPA, with no entrance exam required. Designed for working professionals, it combines clinical knowledge with administrative skills for healthcare leadership advancement.

  • 100% online nursing program
  • 34 total credit hours
  • Completion in 14 months
  • Total tuition $11,560
  • ACEN accredited program
  • BSN required for admission
  • Prepares for nursing leadership roles
  • 3.0 undergraduate GPA required

RN to BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arkansas State University's online MSN Nurse Educator program prepares nurses for teaching roles through advanced pedagogy and clinical instruction methods. This ACEN-accredited program requires 32 credits over 12 months at $11,200 total tuition. Admission mandates BSN, RN license, and 3.0 GPA, with no entrance exam mentioned. The curriculum includes clinical practicum experiences, equipping graduates for positions as nursing faculty and clinical educators entirely online.

  • Online program format
  • ACEN-accredited nursing program
  • Total tuition $11,200
  • Program length 12 months
  • 32 credit hours required
  • BSN degree required
  • Current RN license needed
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Includes clinical practicum
  • Prepares for nurse educator roles
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health)

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arkansas offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health concentration. This advanced program prepares nurses for specialized clinical roles through comprehensive training, including 500 clinical practicum hours. Graduates develop expertise in holistic patient care, medication prescription, and mentoring healthcare teams. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and professional development, requiring no entrance exam. Delivered via the Global Campus, it provides flexibility for working nurses seeking career advancement in adult health settings.

  • Online Master's in Nursing
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist Track
  • 500 Clinical Practicum Hours
  • Advanced Practice Certification
  • Global Campus Delivery

RN to MSN - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arkansas provides an online Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This terminal clinical degree prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in complex healthcare environments. The program requires minimal campus visits, including a mandatory orientation, and offers paths for both BSN and MSN holders. No entrance exam is required. With in-state tuition around $583 per credit hour, it focuses on evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and healthcare policy development to transform patient outcomes.

  • Online program with minimal campus visits.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration available.
  • Prepares for national certification.
  • Paths for B.S.N. and M.S.N. holders.
  • Focus on evidence-based practice.
  • Leadership in healthcare transformation.
  • Interprofessional collaboration emphasis.
  • Technology and policy development focus.
  • In-state tuition $583 per credit.
  • Mandatory orientation visit required.

RN to BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arkansas delivers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program equips nurses with skills to provide comprehensive care across the lifespan through flexible online coursework and clinical practicums. Admission requires a BSN, RN licensure, and minimum GPA, with no entrance exam needed. Graduates prepare for FNP certification, gaining clinical expertise, leadership abilities, and evidence-based practice knowledge for diverse healthcare settings and higher earning potential.

  • Online program format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Requires BSN and RN licensure
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Prepares for FNP certification
  • Clinical practicums included
  • Focus on evidence-based practice
  • Leadership skills development
  • Comprehensive lifespan care focus
  • Higher earning potential post-graduation

RN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Educator)

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Arkansas offers a dynamic online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration. Designed for ambitious nurses, this program enables completion in just four semesters with a six-year maximum timeframe. In-state tuition is $583.11 per credit hour. Graduates develop skills in evidence-based teaching, healthcare policy, and professional leadership across diverse settings. The program requires a scholarly project and emphasizes advanced nursing leadership, with no entrance exam mentioned in the provided data.

  • Online MSN program
  • Nurse Educator concentration
  • Four-semester completion
  • In-state tuition $583.11/credit
  • Six-year maximum completion time
  • Scholarly project requirement
  • Advanced nursing leadership focus
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#4

University of Arkansas Grantham

LIttle Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - uagrantham.edu

RN to BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Case Management)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas Grantham offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Case Management concentration, designed specifically for working registered nurses. This program prepares graduates for advanced roles in coordinating patient care across diverse healthcare settings through courses like Concepts of Case Management and Life Care Planning. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership skills, culminating in a capstone project and 64 practicum hours. This fully online program requires a valid RN license for admission and does not require entrance exams like the GRE. Accredited by ACEN and DEAC, it features asynchronous learning with flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals.

  • Online program delivery.
  • Case Management concentration.
  • 36 credit hours required.
  • RN license admission requirement.
  • Capstone project included.
  • 64 practicum hours.
  • No transfer credits accepted.
  • B- minimum passing grade.
  • Asynchronous learning format.
  • Accredited by ACEN and DEAC.
#5

University of Arkansas at Monticello

Monticello, AR - Public 4-Year - uamont.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Public Health)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas at Monticello's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Public Health concentration is a 37-credit hour program designed for registered nurses seeking advanced roles in community health. This fully online MSN program prepares graduates for careers in public health nursing, management, and research through coursework in epidemiology, disease prevention, and health policy. With flexible full-time or part-time options, students can complete the program in 24-36 months. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license and a minimum 2.75 GPA, with no entrance exam specified. The program is accredited by NLN CNEA and offers multiple entry tracks including RN to MSN pathways.

  • Fully online MSN program
  • 37 credit hour curriculum
  • Multiple entry tracks available
  • RN to MSN pathway option
  • Multiple career advancement opportunities
  • Public health nursing focus
  • Flexible part-time/full-time options
  • NLN CNEA accredited program
  • 2.75 minimum GPA requirement
  • Unencumbered RN license needed

RN to BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an emphasis in Public Health (Public Health)

Online Learning - Visit Website

This online MSN program with a Public Health concentration at the University of Arkansas at Monticello prepares registered nurses for leadership positions in community health settings. The 37-credit hour curriculum covers epidemiology, public health policy, and evidence-based practice, equipping graduates for roles in public health nursing, education, and administration. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, a 2.75 GPA, and completion of an undergraduate statistics course, with no entrance exam mentioned. The program offers flexible full-time or part-time study options and is accredited by NLN CNEA. Financial aid and nursing-specific scholarships are available through the university's financial aid office.

  • Online program delivery.
  • 37 credit hours total.
  • Public Health concentration focus.
  • Full-time or part-time options.
  • Requires unencumbered RN license.
  • 2.75 GPA admission requirement.
  • Undergraduate statistics course needed.
  • Accredited by NLN CNEA.
  • Not an APRN degree.
  • Prepares for public health roles.

RN to MSN - Nursing, RN to MSN Track, M.S.N.

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas at Monticello offers an online RN to MSN track as part of its Master of Science in Nursing program, focusing on public health nursing. This 37-credit hour program prepares registered nurses for roles such as nurse manager, educator, and public health specialist. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and completion of a statistics course, with no entrance exam specified. The fully online program provides flexible full-time or part-time study options and is accredited by NLN CNEA. Financial aid details are available through UAM's financial aid office, and the program accommodates various student backgrounds and lifestyles.

  • Online program delivery
  • 37 credit hours total
  • RN license required
  • 2.75 GPA minimum
  • Statistics course prerequisite
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • Public health nursing focus
  • Accredited by NLN CNEA
  • No APRN degree
  • Multiple tracks available

RN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing with Emphasis in Public Health (Public Health)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas at Monticello offers a 100% online Master of Science in Nursing with a Public Health concentration requiring 37 credit hours. Completion time ranges from 2-5 years for BSN holders to 3-7 years for those with associate degrees, featuring flexible practicum hours. This program trains nurses for community health roles and requires at least one year of nursing experience for admission, with no entrance exam specified. Graduates may see salary increases of approximately $15,000 annually. The program is fully online with no campus attendance required and offers multiple tracks including post-master's certificate options.

  • 100% online program.
  • 37 credit hours required.
  • Public Health concentration.
  • Flexible practicum hours.
  • 2-5 years completion time.
  • 3-7 years for associate degree.
  • Requires nursing experience.
  • Salary increase potential.
  • No campus attendance needed.
  • Accreditation in progress.
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#6

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Little Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - uams.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing Science (Nursing Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a Master of Nursing Science with a Nursing Education concentration, preparing nurses for academic and clinical teaching roles. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person requirements, focusing on educational strategies and curriculum development. No entrance exam is explicitly required for admission. Designed for working professionals, it features a March 1st application deadline for fall semester starts and holds CCNE accreditation. The program allows concurrent specialization with another nursing track, enhancing career advancement opportunities in nursing education.

  • Nursing Education specialty available
  • Concurrent specialty option
  • Fall semester start
  • March 1st application deadline
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Advanced nursing education focus
  • Designed for working professionals
#7

Harding University

Searcy, AR - Private 4-year - harding.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Harding University's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program combines digital coursework with three annual on-campus intensives in a hybrid format. This 45-credit curriculum includes 750 clinical practicum hours, preparing graduates for national certification with a 92% pass rate. The program emphasizes holistic patient care across diverse healthcare settings and integrates Christian values. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program. Flexible full-time and part-time options accommodate working professionals, with total costs estimated at $48,650.

  • Hybrid online and on-campus format
  • 45 semester credit hours
  • 750 clinical practicum hours
  • 92% certification pass rate
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Three on-campus intensives yearly
  • 99% employment rate
  • Multiple program entry pathways
  • Federal financial aid available
  • Christian values integrated

Master's - Master's Entry into Professional Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Harding University's hybrid Master's Entry into Professional Nursing program prepares non-nursing graduates for advanced nursing roles through a five-semester curriculum. Students earn an MSN degree and become eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam. This program requires the HESI A2 entrance exam and includes 1,032 clinical practice hours. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, science prerequisites, and completion of a CNA course. The online component offers flexibility, while clinical experiences occur in Searcy and Little Rock locations.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • 72 credit hours.
  • Five semesters to complete.
  • Earns MSN degree.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • 3.2 GPA required.
  • Science GPA 3.0 minimum.
  • Online NursingCAS application.
  • Official transcripts needed.
  • Three references required.

RN to BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Harding University's hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner program blends online coursework with essential on-campus intensives, preparing nurses for primary care roles. The 45-credit curriculum includes 750 clinical practicum hours and emphasizes evidence-based practice and holistic care. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and unencumbered RN license. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program. Graduates are eligible for national certification, with the program integrating Christian values throughout the educational experience.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • 45 credit hours
  • 750 clinical hours
  • Christian values emphasis
  • National certification eligibility
  • BSN admission requirement
  • 3.0 GPA needed
  • Unencumbered RN license
  • Financial aid available
  • Holistic care focus
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#8

University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR - Public 4-Year - uca.edu

RN to BSN to MSN - Nurse Educator (MSN) (Community/Family)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Central Arkansas offers a hybrid MSN Nurse Educator program with a Community/Family concentration, preparing graduates for educational roles in diverse settings. This program requires on-campus visits and meets AACN standards, with eligibility for CNE certification after two years of experience. Admission requires a BSN, 2.70 GPA, statistics course, RN license, and TOEFL for non-native English speakers. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. The online hybrid format combines flexibility with in-person components for comprehensive training in community and family-focused education.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Community/Family concentration
  • On-campus visits required
  • Eligible for CNE exam
  • BSN degree required
  • Minimum 2.70 GPA
  • Statistics course prerequisite
  • Current RN license needed
  • TOEFL for non-native speakers
  • Cover letter admission requirement

RN to BSN to MSN - Nurse Educator (MSN) (Geriatrics)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The MSN Nurse Educator program at University of Central Arkansas features a Geriatrics concentration, addressing growing healthcare needs for older adults. This hybrid program blends online learning with required on-campus visits. Admission requires a BSN, 2.70 GPA, unencumbered RN license, and statistics background. No entrance exam is specified as required. Graduates can pursue CNE certification after gaining experience. The program prepares nurses for educational roles in geriatric care settings through a competitive admissions process that includes document review and interviews.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Geriatrics concentration available
  • On-campus visits required
  • BSN degree required
  • Minimum 2.70 GPA
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • CNE exam eligibility
  • Focus on nurse education
  • Competitive admissions process
  • Cover letter and resume required

RN to BSN to MSN - Nurse Educator (MSN) (Maternal/Newborn/Women’s Health)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Central Arkansas provides a hybrid MSN Nurse Educator program with a Maternal/Newborn/Women's Health concentration, specializing in reproductive health education. The program requires some on-campus visits and meets AACN standards, with CNE exam eligibility after experience. Admission requires a BSN, 2.70 GPA, RN license, statistics course, and TOEFL for non-native speakers. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. This online hybrid format offers focused training for educators in maternal and women's health specialties, with admission based on GPA, documents, and interview performance.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Concentration in Maternal/Newborn/Women's Health.
  • On-campus visits required.
  • Meets AACN standards.
  • Eligible for CNE exam.
  • BSN degree required.
  • Minimum GPA 2.70.
  • RN licensure needed.
  • Statistics course prerequisite.
  • TOEFL for non-native speakers.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Higher education statistics sourced from IPEDS 2024 via NCES.

RN to MSN Programs in Arkansas

RN to MSN programs are designed for individuals who are already working as RNs but want to level up with a quick and affordable pathway. While the primary admissions requirement for entering into an MSN program is holding a BSN program, if you already have experience as a nurse and an ADN, you can skip this requirement and enroll directly into an MSN program saving you both time and money in the process. The full list of admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • Arkansas RN license
  • ADN or nursing diploma
  • GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
  • Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
  • Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

Unfortunately at this time, there are no RN to MSN programs offered in Arkansas, however, you can find plenty in nearby states and transfer any future licensure from where the program is based back to Arkansas. A few examples nearby RN to MSN programs are offered by the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of Memphis.

Russellville, AR

Department of Nursing
215 West O Street
Russellville, AR 72801

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Arkansas

When going back to school, the primary concern for most nurses is the cost involved and the amount of time it will take to complete the program. The good news is that most MSN programs are fairly affordable and fast compared to other types of programs such as doctorate programs. If you’re looking for a cheap and quick route to graduation in Arkansas, we’ve organized a few viable options below.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

You can expect most MSN programs in Arkansas to take between two and four years. But if you know where to look, you can surely find several MSN programs that are on the lower end of the spectrum or even less, especially if you’re able to locate a self-paced online program or utilize summer school. Below are a few examples of MSN programs offered in Arkansas that are shorter in length:

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Going to graduate school is never cheap but there are plenty of actions you can take to mitigate the cost of tuition. If you haven’t done so already, establishing residency in Arkansas is a good way to qualify for in-state tuition fees which tend to be half the cost as out-of-state tuitions fees, or even less. Beyond that, some schools simply offer lower tuition costs in general. Below are a few examples in Arkansas:

SchoolEstimated CostCredits
Arkansas State University (ASU)$14,000 – $16,00041.5
University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM)$8,431 – $14,28139
Arkansas Tech University (ATU)$8,071 – $13,89139

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs offer a fast-track path for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing profession. These intensive programs combine foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice training, preparing students to become MSN-educated and explore advanced careers in nursing with little to no nursing experience. Here are a few of the requirements for admissions:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
  • GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
  • Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
  • Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
  • Admissions interview

One great example of MENP programs located in Arkansas is offered at Harding University located in Searcy, AR.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One sometimes overlooked benefit to getting an MSN degree is that many offer the option to specialize in an area that the student is passionate about. Students in MSN programs are often able to specialize in anything from informatics to public health depending on the availability and the student’s specific interests. Here are a few schools in Arkansas that offer MSN specializations:

SchoolSpecialtyCredits
Arkansas Tech University (ATU)Nursing Administration39
Arkansas State University (ASU)Family Nurse Practitioner41.5
University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM)Case Management39

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards set by accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It verifies that the program's curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced practice roles, licensure, and certification. Accredited programs are recognized by employers, enhance career opportunities, and qualify for federal financial aid.

2026 List of MSN Programs in Arkansas

Take a look at a the full list of MSN programs that the State of Arkansas has to offer below:

MSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Arkadelphia, AR

Henderson State University

  • BSN to MSN - Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Graduate Nursing Education Certificate
    • 12 Total Credit Hours
    • 180 Practicum Hours
    • Flexible Completion Timeframes
    • No On-Campus Requirements
    • Can Complete with FNP/NELA Tracks
    • Concurrent 10-Week Summer Option
    • 2-4 Semester Completion Option
  • BSN to MSN - MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN-FNP program
    • 45 total credit hours
    • 540 practicum hours
    • Two-day face-to-face session
    • Requires 2000+ RN hours
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Primary care across lifespan
    • Advanced assessment training
  • BSN to MSN - MSN Nursing Executive Leadership and Administration

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • No on-campus visits required.
    • For BSN-prepared RNs.
    • Maintain full-time employment.
    • Flexible schedule.
    • Focus on healthcare leadership.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Builds collaborative teams.

Fayetteville, AR

University of Arkansas

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's in Nursing
    • Clinical Nurse Specialist Track
    • 500 Clinical Practicum Hours
    • Advanced Practice Certification
    • Global Campus Delivery

Jonesboro, AR

Arkansas State University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online coursework
    • ACEN-accredited program
    • 41.5 total credit hours
    • 24-month completion option
    • $15,355 total tuition
    • Prepares for ANCC/AACN exams
    • Multiple start dates annually
    • 3.25 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online coursework
    • 41.5 total credit hours
    • Total tuition $15,355
    • 24-month program length
    • ACEN-accredited program
    • BSN required for admission
    • Minimum 3.25 GPA
    • Next start date 3/10/25
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Administrator

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online format.
    • 34 credit hours required.
    • Total tuition $11,900.
    • ACEN accredited program.
    • Can complete in 14 months.
    • Requires BSN degree.
    • Current RN license needed.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online coursework
    • 26 months program length
    • 47.5 total credit hours
    • Total tuition $23,750
    • ACEN-accredited program
    • Prepares for ANCC certification
    • Clinicals near home

Little Rock, AR

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing Science

    Concentration: Nursing Administration - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Focus on Nursing Administration.
    • Advanced practicum experience.
    • Prepares for certification.
    • Option to combine with Nursing Education.
    • Skills in financial management.
    • Hands-on leadership training.
    • 17+ hours weekly practicum.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing Science

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Nursing Education specialty available
    • Concurrent specialty option
    • Fall semester start
    • March 1st application deadline
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Advanced nursing education focus
    • Designed for working professionals

Monticello, AR

University of Arkansas at Monticello

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Public Health - Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN program.
    • Public Health concentration.
    • 37 credit hours.
    • Flexible full-time or part-time.
    • Prepares for public health roles.
    • Requires RN license.
    • 2.75 GPA minimum.
    • Undergraduate statistics course needed.
  • BSN to MSN - Public Health, M.S.N.

    Online Learning - Website

    • 37 total credit hours.
    • 405 practicum hours required.
    • Fully online distance learning.
    • For BSN-prepared nurses only.
    • Three-phase course structure.
    • Graduate nursing core courses.
    • Clinical foundation core courses.
    • Public health core courses.

Russellville, AR

Arkansas Tech University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Emergency Management

    Concentration: Emergency Management - Campus Based - Website

    • Multidisciplinary nursing leadership program
    • Emergency management integration
    • Thesis and non-thesis options
    • National certification preparation
    • Practicum in healthcare settings
    • Research and professional presentation
    • Affordable tuition options
    • Flexible learning approaches
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Emergency Management

    Concentration: Nursing Administration - Campus Based - Website

    • Multidisciplinary nursing leadership track
    • Emergency management integration
    • Thesis or non-thesis project options
    • Research and presentation opportunities
    • National certification exam preparation
    • In-state tuition for bordering states
    • Various financial aid options
    • Graduate assistantships available

Searcy, AR

Harding University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and on-campus format
    • 45 semester credit hours
    • 750 clinical practicum hours
    • 92% certification pass rate
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Three on-campus intensives yearly
    • 99% employment rate
    • Multiple program entry pathways
*National Center for Education Statistics. (2024). IPEDS data system. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/