Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas

2025 Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas

Finding the right nursing school in Arkansas is crucial for your future career, and one key factor to consider is the NCLEX-RN pass rate. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked the best nursing schools in Arkansas based on these pass rates to help you make an informed decision. Schools with higher pass rates often provide the quality education and preparation needed to succeed on this important exam. Including NCLEX pass rates in our rankings gives you a clear picture of which schools best prepare their students for the challenges of nursing. Choosing a school with a high pass rate can significantly boost your chances of passing the NCLEX-RN and starting your nursing career on the right foot. For more details on how we rank schools, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Baptist Health College Little Rock

Little Rock, AR - Private 2-year - bhclr.edu

Associate - Traditional Track

Campus Based - Visit Website

Baptist Health College Little Rock's Traditional Track Nursing program is tailored for aspiring Registered Nurses, offering a robust curriculum that spans Adult Nursing, Pharmacology, and Mental Health among others. This campus-based program, requiring a high school diploma or GED, official transcripts, and ATI TEAS or ACT scores for admission, is designed to accommodate students from various academic backgrounds. With two start dates annually, the program spans three to four semesters, focusing on hands-on learning to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. The comprehensive education provided equips students for diverse healthcare settings, making it a solid choice for those entering the nursing field.

• Two start dates annually.
• Three or four semesters.
• Campus-based program.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Official transcripts needed.
• ATI TEAS or ACT scores required.
• Hands-on learning focus.
• Diverse academic entry options.

#2

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

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

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out for its hybrid format, blending online coursework with in-person clinical and simulation experiences. Designed for aspiring registered nurses, this four-year program begins with foundational courses before advancing to specialized nursing studies. Notably, the final year is conducted online, offering flexibility for students to work as RNs. Admission prerequisites include completion of specific courses, but no ACT or SAT is required. The program boasts a strong NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting its comprehensive preparation that includes access to a state-of-the-art simulation hospital, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for licensure and professional practice in Arkansas.

• Hybrid program format
• Four-year curriculum
• Online final year
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation
• State-of-the-art simulation hospital
• Admission requires prerequisites
• Meets Arkansas licensure requirements
• Combines classroom and clinical learning

#3

North Arkansas College

Harrison, AR - Public 2-Year - northark.edu

Associate - Registered Nursing AAS

Campus Based - Visit Website

North Arkansas College's Registered Nursing Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program is a comprehensive two-year, full-time course designed to equip students with the necessary skills for the NCLEX-RN. With a curriculum emphasizing patient-centered care, critical thinking, and professional ethics, students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations at nearby healthcare providers. ACEN accreditation underscores the program's commitment to excellence, preparing graduates for licensure in Arkansas and Missouri. Financial aid options are available, making this program accessible to aspiring nurses ready to embark on a fulfilling healthcare career.

• 2-year program
• Full-time commitment
• Clinical experience included
• ACEN accredited
• Eligible for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Licensure in AR, MO
• Patient-centered care focus
• Critical reasoning skills
• Professional behavior training

#4

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR - Public 4-Year - uapb.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program stands out for its commitment to preparing students for the challenges of modern healthcare. Offering both Pre-licensure and RN-to-BSN tracks, the program is tailored to meet the needs of aspiring nurses at different stages of their careers. With a curriculum aligned with AACN standards, students benefit from a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, underscored by leadership development and ethical decision-making. The program boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting its rigorous training and the quality of its clinically experienced faculty. Admission does not explicitly require an ACT or SAT, making it accessible to a broader range of students.

• Two nursing program tracks
• Clinically experienced faculty
• AACN curriculum standards
• Robust clinical training
• Leadership skill development

Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program Track

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their qualifications, the RN-to-BSN Program Track at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers a flexible hybrid learning model. This program emphasizes the enhancement of clinical judgment and leadership skills, preparing graduates for advanced roles in healthcare. Admission prerequisites include a current RN license and a minimum GPA, with no mention of an entrance exam requirement. The program's focus on practical skills and ethical decision-making, combined with the support of experienced faculty, ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry. Its strong NCLEX-RN pass rates underscore the program's effectiveness in preparing students for success.

• Hybrid learning format.
• For registered nurses.
• Focuses on leadership skills.
• Enhances clinical judgment.
• Requires current RN license.
• Minimum GPA for admission.
• Prepares for advanced roles.
• Experienced faculty.
• Supports professional growth.
• Contributes to healthcare needs.

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*Information derived from: IPEDS 2023 survey, conducted by NCES.

Arkansas Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

If you are interested in a registered nursing career, Arkansas offers several entry-level degree points to help you enter the world of nursing. Most students opt to start with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing. Read on to learn more about each degree level to see if it's the right fit for you.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

If you don’t currently have experience as a nurse, it can be hard to know how to get started, and what degrees are required of you. There are typically three routes entry-level nurses pursue; these are an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). All three options are offered to entry-level nurses, but there are differences. An ADN and nursing diploma are the fastest options that can get you licensed and into the field in as little as 1 – 2 years. A BSN on the other hand will require four years of full-time study, though there will be a lot more opportunities offered to you. If you’re already working as an LPN, you can find expedited routes to ADN degrees or even BSN degrees through a LPN to RN bridge program.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Arkansas include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
• Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Arkansas.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

While ADN programs and nursing diplomas are shorter pathways to employment, if you’re looking to invest more time in your degree, a BSN is often worth the time for most students. Many employers prefer nurses to have a BSN as opposed to a nursing diploma or ADN and they can easily be leveraged into higher-level degrees if you decide to go to grad school. If you have experience as nurse already, you can get your BSN in as little as 2 years, so long as you have RN licensure and an ADN. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, you can get your BSN through an accelerated BSN program with even less time — 1 year with the right amount of credits!

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Arkansas typically include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

RN to BSN

Arkansas RN to BSN programs are among the most common bridge programs available in the state. Their basic requirements involve having an RN license and ADN. If you meet these requirements, you can reasonably expect to have your BSN degree in only 2 – 3 years.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

If you have a bachelor’s degree already, you’re looking to switch over to a BSN degree, one of the easiest ways to do that is by entering into an Arkansas ABSN program. This will allow you to get your BSN in as little as a year.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Students in Arkansas looking to advance their nursing career into a more independent and higher-paying career, there are many options to do so. Whether you are looking for a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), there's a program for you. Keep in mind that most of these programs require that you already hold a BSN or MSN, hold an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet all the entry requirements specific to each program.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Arkansas:

• Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Programs
• Arkansas MSN Program
• Arkansas RN to MSN Programs
• Arkansas Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• Arkansas DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in Arkansas

If you intend to practice as a nurse in Arkansas, you’ll need to get licensed. RN licensure in Arkansas requires passing the NCLEX-RN exam following your accredited nursing program. Once you’ve done this, the final step is submitting an application to the Arkansas State Nursing Board and paying the fee.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Arkansas

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the Arkansas Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

Regardless of what program you choose, the important thing to remember is to look for RN program accreditation. Accreditation means that the prospective program is up to the standards of the state nursing board. As you apply to nursing programs in Arkansas, make sure that they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).