Best Nursing Colleges in Arkansas
As the demand for qualified nursing professionals grows, the importance of quality nursing education cannot be understated. Whether you’re just starting your journey or are a practicing nurse looking to advance your education, Arkansas offers a variety of exceptional nursing programs to meet your needs. In this article, we delve into the best nursing colleges in Arkansas.
Arkansas State University–Jonesboro
Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas State University (A-State) is a public institution with a strong reputation for its nursing programs.
Information About Nursing Programs
A-State offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. These programs provide a comprehensive, holistic approach to nursing education, preparing graduates for a variety of roles in healthcare.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
As of 2021, the estimated annual cost for undergraduate students at A-State was around $15,860 for Arkansas residents and around $21,260 for out-of-state students. The university had an enrollment of approximately 14,000 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was roughly 1010-1220.
Arkansas Tech University
Arkansas Tech University (ATU), located in Russellville, is known for its commitment to student success and high-quality nursing programs.
Information About Nursing Programs
ATU offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and an online RN to BSN program for nurses who want to advance their education. The nursing programs at ATU focus on clinical excellence and patient-centered care.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at ATU in 2021 were around $7,668, with out-of-state students paying around $13,236. The university had an enrollment of about 12,000 students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was about 980-1210.
Harding University
Harding University, located in Searcy, is a private Christian university home to the Carr College of Nursing.
Information About Nursing Programs
Harding’s Carr College of Nursing offers a BSN program, an RN to BSN program, an MSN program, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The college emphasizes a holistic and faith-based approach to nursing care.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
Harding’s tuition and fees are the same for both in-state and out-of-state students as a private institution. In 2021 the estimated annual undergraduate tuition and fees were around $20,530. Harding had an enrollment of approximately 5,000 students; the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was about 1060-1290.
Henderson State University
In Arkadelphia, Henderson State University (HSU) offers comprehensive nursing programs combining academic theory and practical skills.
Information About Nursing Programs
HSU offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an online RN to BSN program. These programs prepare graduates to practice nursing in a variety of healthcare settings.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
As of 2021, the estimated annual in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at HSU were around $8,530, while out-of-state students paid around $10,530. HSU had an enrollment of approximately 3,500 students, and the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was roughly 930-1110.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock is a renowned medical institution offering several top-notch nursing programs.
Information About Nursing Programs
UAMS offers a BSN program, an RN to BSN program, an MSN program, several post-master certificates, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. These programs prepare students for a variety of roles in healthcare and emphasize evidence-based practice.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
As of 2021, the estimated annual in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students at UAMS were around $9,188, with out-of-state students paying about $22,457. UAMS had an enrollment of approximately 2,500 students. UAMS does not require the SAT for admission to its undergraduate programs, focusing instead on GPA and prerequisites.
University of Arkansas (Mann)
The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville offers nursing programs that prepare students for a variety of roles in healthcare.
Information About Nursing Programs
The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing offers a BSN program, an RN to BSN program, an MSN program, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. These programs provide a comprehensive approach to nursing education, combining rigorous coursework with practical clinical experiences.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
As of 2021, the estimated annual in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at the University of Arkansas were around $9,384, with out-of-state students paying about $25,872. The university had an enrollment of approximately 27,500 students, and the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was about 1160-1320.
University of Central Arkansas
Located in Conway, the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) offers a variety of nursing programs through its School of Nursing.
Information About Nursing Programs
UCA offers a traditional BSN program, an RN to BSN program, an MSN program, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. These programs emphasize patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and health promotion.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
As of 2021, the estimated annual in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at UCA were around $8,752, with out-of-state students paying about $15,275. UCA had an enrollment of approximately 11,000 students; the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students was about 980-1200.
Best Nursing Colleges in Three Other States
Best Nursing Colleges in Louisiana
In Louisiana, notable nursing schools include Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Loyola University New Orleans.
Best Nursing Colleges in Texas
Texas boasts numerous excellent nursing programs, with standout schools, including the University of Texas at Austin, Baylor University, and Texas Christian University.
Best Nursing Colleges in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, prospective nursing students might consider programs at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City University, and Oklahoma Baptist University.
How to Prepare for the SAT
Adequate SAT preparation involves understanding the test format, regularly practicing with official SAT practice tests, focusing on weak areas, learning test-taking strategies, and maintaining a consistent study schedule. Furthermore, consider using SAT prep books, taking an SAT prep course, or hiring a tutor if you struggle to improve.
In conclusion, Arkansas offers a variety of high-quality nursing programs to help students embark on a rewarding career in nursing. As you consider your options, consider your career goals, budget, and learning style to find the best program for you.
