Choosing the right nursing school is the first major step toward building a successful and fulfilling career in healthcare. With the demand for skilled registered nurses (RNs) rising rapidly across the United States, Arkansas has emerged as one of the most promising states to begin your nursing education. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a working healthcare professional aiming to advance your career, this guide will help you discover the best Nursing Schools in Arkansas offering accredited and career-focused programs.
Why Choose Arkansas for Nursing Education?
Arkansas has a strong reputation for offering affordable, high-quality nursing education combined with extensive clinical exposure. The state’s healthcare system is expanding rapidly, and hospitals across both rural and urban areas are in constant need of skilled registered nurses.
Some key reasons to pursue your nursing degree in Arkansas include:
- Affordable tuition fees compared to national averages
- Accredited programs with hands-on training
- Strong partnerships with top healthcare institutions
- High employment rates for graduates
- Supportive academic environment and small class sizes
The Nursing Schools in Arkansas emphasize not only academic excellence but also compassionate patient care — a crucial element of nursing practice.
Top 5 Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas (2026 Updated List)
Below is a carefully curated list of the top nursing schools in the state, based on program quality, accreditation, clinical training, and student outcomes.
1. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) – College of Nursing, Little Rock
Program Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Accelerated BSN
- RN to BSN
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Highlights:
UAMS is widely recognized as one of the best Nursing Schools in Arkansas, known for its research excellence and state-of-the-art simulation centers. Students gain exposure to real-world clinical environments through partnerships with hospitals and clinics across the state.
Why Choose UAMS:
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in recent years
- Modern labs and simulation-based learning
- Opportunities for graduate studies in nursing leadership and advanced practice
2. Arkansas State University – College of Nursing and Health Professions, Jonesboro
Program Offered:
- BSN
- Accelerated BSN
- RN to BSN
- MSN and DNP programs
Highlights:
Arkansas State University provides one of the most flexible nursing education pathways, allowing students to choose from on-campus, hybrid, and online formats. The faculty focuses on building clinical confidence and leadership qualities among students.
Why Choose ASU:
- Affordable tuition fees
- Excellent NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Access to a variety of clinical placements in both rural and urban healthcare settings
3. Harding University – Carr College of Nursing, Searcy
Program Offered:
- BSN
- Accelerated BSN
- MSN programs
Highlights:
Harding University blends Christian values with evidence-based nursing education, helping students develop both professional skills and ethical responsibility. The program integrates service-learning and clinical rotations across major healthcare centers.
Why Choose Harding:
- Faith-based and student-centered learning
- Emphasis on compassionate care and leadership
- Strong alumni network in Arkansas hospitals
4. University of Central Arkansas (UCA) – School of Nursing, Conway
Program Offered:
- BSN
- RN to BSN
- MSN and DNP
Highlights:
UCA’s nursing programs are known for academic rigor and modern facilities. The university offers simulation-based learning and community outreach programs that enhance clinical skills and patient communication.
Why Choose UCA:
- Affordable and accredited nursing education
- Highly experienced faculty
- Clinical placements in central Arkansas hospitals
5. Henderson State University – Ellis College of Arts and Sciences, Arkadelphia
Program Offered:
- BSN
- RN to BSN
Highlights:
Henderson State University provides a solid foundation in nursing theory, critical thinking, and clinical practice. Students engage in hands-on training through partnerships with regional hospitals and clinics.
Why Choose Henderson:
- Personalized academic support
- Small class sizes for better learning experiences
- Excellent student satisfaction rates
What You’ll Learn in a Nursing Program
The nursing curriculum in Arkansas combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical skills. Students learn to provide safe, ethical, and patient-centered care under the supervision of experienced faculty.
Core Subjects Include:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing
- Community Health and Leadership
All programs emphasize critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork — essential qualities for successful registered nurses.
Career Opportunities for Registered Nurses in Arkansas
After completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam, graduates become licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). The demand for RNs in Arkansas continues to grow due to an aging population and expanding healthcare infrastructure.
Top Employment Settings:
- Hospitals and surgical centers
- Long-term care facilities
- Community health clinics
- Home healthcare agencies
- Schools and universities
Average RN Salary in Arkansas (2025):
- Entry-level: $62,000 per year
- Experienced RNs: $85,000+ per year
Moreover, nurses can pursue advanced degrees (MSN or DNP) to specialize as Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, or Nursing Educators — leading to higher pay and career advancement.
Also Read: Complete List of Nurse Anesthetist Schools in Arkansas
Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools
While requirements vary slightly between institutions, most Nursing Schools in Arkansas require:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- TEAS or HESI admission test scores
- Background check and health clearance
- Letters of recommendation
- Interview (for competitive programs)
Some programs also offer bridge options for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or paramedics who wish to become registered nurses.
Tips to Succeed as a Nursing Student
- Master Time Management: Balance study schedules, clinical duties, and personal time efficiently.
- Engage in Hands-On Practice: Use every clinical rotation as a learning opportunity.
- Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers for better understanding and motivation.
- Stay Updated: Keep up with modern medical technologies and evidence-based practices.
- Focus on Compassionate Care: Empathy and communication are as important as technical skills.
Final Thoughts
Arkansas offers a range of high-quality, accredited programs for those passionate about nursing. Each school provides a unique blend of academic rigor, clinical excellence, and professional development opportunities.
By choosing one of the top Nursing Schools in Arkansas, you are setting yourself on a path toward a rewarding and stable career as a Registered Nurse. Whether you enroll at UAMS, Arkansas State University, or Harding University, you’ll gain the knowledge, confidence, and compassion needed to make a meaningful difference in patient care.
