Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas

The RN to BSN online program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is designed for licensed RNs and recent graduates of associate or diploma programs who want to advance their education. This nationally-ranked program prepares you with the critical thinking and communication skills needed for compassionate, skilled nursing care. The curriculum builds on your existing RN foundation, covering advanced nursing concepts through an online format that fits your schedule. You'll benefit from year-round admissions, allowing you to start when you're ready. Graduates are highly regarded by employers for their readiness and professionalism. The program offers a flexible pathway to a BSN degree, opening doors to leadership roles and higher earning potential.

• Rolling admissions
• Prepares skilled, compassionate nurses
• Online RN-to-BSN program
• Accepts applications year-round
• For licensed RNs and recent graduates

The RN to B.S.N. online program at the University of Arkansas is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. This flexible, 100% online program can be completed in as little as one year, with 3-5 semester plans available. The curriculum integrates evolving nursing knowledge with evidence-based practice, preparing graduates to provide culturally sensitive, person-centered care. Students complete two practicum courses, including a quality improvement project guided by a mentor. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles, increased earning potential, and career advancement in diverse healthcare settings. The program emphasizes advocacy, health equity, and collaboration with interprofessional teams. With three start terms (fall, spring, summer) and no campus visit required, this program offers a convenient path to a B.S.N.

• 1-Year program
• Complete in one year
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Program totally online; no campus visit required
• Evidence-based practice quality improvement project

The RN to BSN program at the University of Central Arkansas is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career. Fully online and flexible, the program can be completed in as little as 12 months with full-time or part-time options. Students benefit from 41 transfer credit hours awarded for prior nursing education, allowing them to build on existing knowledge. The curriculum covers advanced nursing concepts, leadership, and community health, preparing graduates for roles in management, public health, and specialized clinical settings. With three start dates per year and a focus on working professionals, this program offers a supportive pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Admission requires an Arkansas RN license, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and completion of prerequisite courses including anatomy, physiology, and microbiology.

• 12-Month program
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 start dates per year
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• 100% online coursework
• 41 transfer credit hours awarded
• Designed for working nurses
• Requires Arkansas RN license

The RN to BSN program at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is designed for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma who want to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The online curriculum covers nursing transition, health promotion, informatics, community health, research, healthcare economics, leadership, and ethics. Through preceptor-guided practicums and a capstone portfolio, students apply new knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates are prepared for generalist practice, leadership roles, and graduate study. The program boasts CCNE initial accreditation and grants credit for prior nursing education via the Arkansas Progression Model. With online learning through Blackboard, faculty advisement, and a focus on professional development, this program offers a flexible path to career advancement.

• CCNE, ACEN accredited
• Entrance exam required
• $172 per credit
• 122 total credit hours
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Faculty advisor assigned
• Preceptor-guided clinical experiences

Ouachita Baptist University offers an online RN to BSN program designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. The curriculum builds on your associate degree or diploma in nursing, covering nursing theory, informatics, ethics, evidence-based research, advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, community health, transcultural nursing, and leadership. You'll complete a capstone and gain practical experience through community health and leadership practicums. With transfer credit for prior nursing education, you can focus on upper-level coursework while balancing work and life. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health organizations, and public health agencies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural competence, and evidence-based practice, helping you elevate patient care and pursue graduate studies.

• 120 total credit hours
• 2.5 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required
• Requires unencumbered RN license
• Transfer up to 40 RN credits
• Must complete within 3 years
• No Ds in nursing or science courses
• Online format available
• Includes community health practicum