Best LPN Programs in Arkansas 2026

Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Arkansas with details on schools, curriculum, tuition, and hands-on training. Learn about state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Arkansas.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN Programs in Arkansas

At practicalnursing.org, we have ranked the best LPN programs in Arkansas to help future nurses find a solid starting point. These rankings focus on important factors like NCLEX pass rates, accreditation, and program affordability. The list highlights schools that offer hands-on training and strong support for students. Whether you're looking for a fast-track program or one with flexible evening classes, the options below cover a range of needs. We reviewed each program carefully using reliable data. To understand how these rankings were built, see our full methodology at https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

South Arkansas College

El Dorado, AR - Public 2-Year - southark.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

South Arkansas College's Practical Nursing program awards a Technical Certificate and prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and entry-level LPN careers. Over three semesters (12 months), coursework covers essential nursing skills, patient care, and clinical preparation. The college offers four distinct tracks: day and evening classes on the El Dorado campus, a day class at the Warren campus, and a specialized route for high school seniors. Multiple start dates throughout the year provide scheduling flexibility. Students gain hands-on experience in simulation labs under experienced faculty. Graduates typically find employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This program is an efficient pathway into nursing for those seeking a rewarding, fast-paced career.

4 concentration options
12-Month program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Technical Certificate awarded
Entry-level nursing career preparation
Day class on El Dorado campus
Evening class on El Dorado campus
Warren campus day class
High school senior track

Arkansas Northeastern College

Blytheville, AR - Public 2-Year - anc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Arkansas Northeastern College's Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing prepares students for entry-level LPN roles through a campus-based program approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training, focusing on direct patient care skills such as medication administration, vital sign monitoring, and patient assessment. Graduates are equipped to pursue licensure via the NCLEX-PN and find employment in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare settings. Designed for efficiency, this certificate emphasizes real-world competencies, enabling students to quickly transition into the nursing workforce and deliver safe, compassionate care under professional supervision.

Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited
Faster path to healthcare
Direct patient care experience
Work in diverse healthcare settings

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas

Helena, AR - Public 2-Year - pccua.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas offers a Practical Nursing Technical Certificate designed to prepare students for LPN licensure and immediate employment. The 42-credit-hour curriculum combines classroom theory with hands-on clinical training in patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, and ethical decision-making. Students learn evidence-based practices and interprofessional collaboration. The program begins each fall and spring, requiring prerequisites and a 2.0 minimum GPA. An entrance exam is mandatory, along with criminal background checks and drug screening. Cohorts are small, fostering individualized faculty support. Phillips boasts a 100% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate and 100% job placement, with courses offered at DeWitt and Helena-West Helena campuses. Transfer students in good standing may apply, with one readmission permitted.

Entrance exam required
42 total credit hours
Starts fall/spring
100% licensure pass rate
100% job placement rate
2.0 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Offered at DeWitt and Helena-West Helena
100% NCLEX-PN first-time pass rate

University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain

Mena, AR - Public 2-Year - uarichmountain.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Students at University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain can complete an eleven-month Licensed Practical Nursing technical certificate, blending classroom theory with immersive clinical practice. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based care, patient communication, critical thinking, and care planning, plus the use of healthcare technology. Graduates are prepared for hospitals, long-term care, and clinics, working under RN direction. They become eligible for the NCLEX-PN upon completion. The program holds full approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Admission requires a preadmission NEX exam, ACT/Accuplacer/ASSET scores, and a May 15 deadline, offering a direct and accelerated route to LPN licensure.

Entrance exam required
11-Month program
Complete in eleven month program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Combines classroom instruction with clinical experience
Technical Certificate awarded upon completion
Full approval by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Preadmission NEX exam required
Admission deadline May 15

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Fort Smith, AR - Public 4-Year - uafs.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN) Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith delivers a two-year Practical Nursing (LPN) program tailored for high school students seeking an early start in healthcare. Blending classroom learning, high-fidelity simulation labs, and clinical rotations at local hospitals and clinics, the curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, anatomy, medical terminology, and patient monitoring. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue roles such as LPN, LVN, or home health nurse. The program also offers a seamless LPN-to-RN/BSN pathway at UAFS and is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. With morning and afternoon sessions, students gain real-world experience at major employers like Mercy Hospital and Baptist Health.

2-Year program
Complete in two-year program
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
High-tech simulation labs
Earn college credit in high school
Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
LPN-to-RN pathway available
Morning and afternoon sessions
Clinical training in local healthcare facilities
Major employers: Mercy Hospital, Baptist Health

*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2025.

Arkansas LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

To enroll in a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in Arkansas, applicants must meet several standard requirements. These include having a high school diploma or GED, maintaining a minimum GPA as set by the individual school, and passing a background check and drug screening. Many programs also require applicants to take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) and achieve a competitive score. Some schools may request letters of recommendation or require applicants to complete a personal interview or essay as part of the admissions process.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in Arkansas are designed to provide a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of nursing. Core subjects typically include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, and fundamentals of nursing. Students also receive hands-on experience in clinical settings, preparing them to provide direct patient care in various healthcare environments.

Accreditation is crucial for ensuring quality education and is often required for licensure and employment. In Arkansas, credible programs are approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Accreditation indicates that a program meets established education standards and qualifies graduates to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, which is required to practice as an LPN in the state.

LPN Schools and Classes

Many community colleges, technical schools, and vocational institutions across Arkansas offer LPN programs, each integrating classroom instruction with clinical practice. Students can expect coursework in medical-surgical nursing, maternal and child health, mental health nursing, and geriatrics. Courses in communication, patient care, and nursing ethics are also commonly required. Clinical training takes place in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, providing practical experience under the supervision of registered nurses and instructors.

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in Arkansas have a strong job outlook due to growing demand in long-term care facilities, home health environments, and hospitals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of LPNs is projected to grow steadily, and Arkansas consistently shows a need for qualified practical nurses, especially in rural communities. LPNs in Arkansas often benefit from flexible work schedules and options for shift work, contributing to a favorable work/life balance.

LPN Program Length

Full-time LPN programs in Arkansas generally take about 11 to 12 months to complete. Part-time options are available at some schools and may span 18 to 24 months, depending on the course load. Evening and weekend programs, designed for working adults, follow extended timelines but offer the flexibility to maintain employment while studying. Program length can vary slightly by institution but typically stays within a one to two-year timeframe.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Arkansas

For many future nurses in Arkansas, time is just as important as training. Shorter LPN programs let students start working sooner, which matters in a state where healthcare needs keep growing. The shortest options still cover essential skills while cutting away extra time. This helps people in places like Little Rock or Fayetteville balance school with jobs or family. A faster path means lower costs and quicker entry into a stable career. We should always check that program length does not reduce quality. Still, for those ready to commit, the fastest route to a nursing license can open doors sooner and ease local staffing shortages.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
University of Arkansas at Monticello Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 12-Month program Complete in one-year program 42 total credit hours 1 start dates per year Starts winter Cohort-based structure	Graduation Rate: 49% Retention Rate: 72% Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 :1
University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain Licensed Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required 11-Month program Complete in eleven month program Prepares for NCLEX-PN Combines classroom instruction with clinical experience Technical Certificate awarded upon completion Full approval by Arkansas State Board of Nursing Preadmission NEX exam required	Graduation Rate: 55% Retention Rate: 63% Student to Faculty Ratio: 19 :1
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Practical Nursing (LPN) Program	2-Year program Complete in two-year program Prepares for NCLEX-PN High-tech simulation labs Earn college credit in high school Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing LPN-to-RN pathway available Morning and afternoon sessions	Graduation Rate: 38% Retention Rate: 70% Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1

*Federal data source: IPEDS 2025, administered by NCES.

Tuition and Costs

The cost of LPN programs in Arkansas varies by school and program length. For programs offered through public colleges and technical schools, typical tuition can range from approximately $4,000 to $12,000. Most programs are offered through public colleges and technical schools, helping limit tuition expenses. Additional costs include textbooks, uniforms, equipment, background checks, and licensing exam fees. Student housing in Arkansas is relatively affordable, especially in smaller towns where many of the state’s LPN programs are located.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Arkansas

We have collected information on LPN programs across Arkansas for 2027. The table below lists each school, the program offered, highlights, and the cost range. Choosing an affordable program is a big step for future nurses. Low-cost options mean less debt and a faster path to working in places like Little Rock, Fayetteville, or the Delta. We want this table to help you compare schools and find one that fits your budget. Good training does not have to be expensive. With a little research, you can become an LPN without financial stress.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas Practical Nursing Program	Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 2 start dates per year Starts fall/spring Prerequisite courses required $25 application fee Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available	$3,800 - $5,700 (Undergrad In-State) $4,200 - $6,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
East Arkansas Community College Practical Nursing	Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited Entrance exam required $3,849 total program tuition 39 total credit hours Financial aid available Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing Focus on therapeutic communication Prepares for LPN licensure	$2,900 - $4,400 (Undergrad In-State) $3,500 - $5,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Arkansas State University-Newport Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required 11-Month program Starts fall/spring Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Scholarships available Clinical rotations in healthcare settings	$2,600 - $4,000 (Undergrad In-State) $3,800 - $5,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*IPEDS 2025 institutional statistics, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

In Arkansas, LPN programs cannot be completed entirely online. While some schools may offer online components for lecture-based courses or general education content, the hands-on nature of nursing education requires in-person clinical training in healthcare settings. Practical nursing programs are regulated by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, which mandates supervised clinical experience as a core component of LPN training. This ensures that students develop the skills needed to provide competent patient care.

LPN Licensure Requirements in Arkansas

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Arkansas, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN examination. This national exam is administered through Pearson VUE and evaluates the knowledge and skills necessary to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level nurse. Before taking the exam, graduates must submit an application for licensure to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN), along with proof of graduation from an Arkansas-approved practical nursing program and a criminal background check.

After eligibility is confirmed by the Board, candidates will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT). Arkansas also requires candidates to submit fingerprints for both state and federal background checks before being authorized for testing. The Authorization to Test (ATT) for the NCLEX-PN is valid for one year from the date of issue.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)

For nurses licensed in non-compact states, Arkansas offers licensure by endorsement. Applicants must submit verification of their current license, prove completion of an approved LPN program, pass the NCLEX-PN, and complete a criminal background check. If applicants have not practiced nursing for 1,000 hours in the past five years, they must complete a board-approved refresher course or have graduated from a nursing program within the past year.

Licensure Requirements

The Arkansas State Board of Nursing manages LPN licensure, discipline, and regulation across the state. To be eligible for licensure, applicants must:

Graduate from an ASBN-approved LPN program or an equivalent out-of-state program
Pass the NCLEX-PN examination
Submit a completed application through the ASBN portal
Provide fingerprints for Arkansas State Police and FBI background checks

Arkansas allows LPN applicants to apply for a temporary permit upon completion of all requirements, excluding NCLEX-PN passage. This permit allows limited practice for up to 90 days or until NCLEX results are received.

License Renewal

In Arkansas, LPN licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal period opens 60 days before the license expiration date. Renewal is done online through the ASBN portal. To be eligible for renewal, LPNs must:

Complete one of the following: practice nursing for a minimum of 1,000 hours in the previous five years, complete a board-approved refresher course, or graduate from a nursing program within the last year
Complete state and federal criminal background checks if selected for audit
Pay the required renewal fee

While Arkansas does not have a mandated number of continuing education hours for LPNs, nurses must maintain competency to meet renewal eligibility and practice standards. It is recommended to keep detailed records of professional development and nursing-related coursework in case of audit.

Arkansas LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Arkansas is $52,540, falling significantly below the national average of $62,340. This wage disparity is primarily influenced by Arkansas's lower cost of living index, which generally correlates with more modest compensation across most professions. Other contributing elements include regional demand within the long-term care sector, state-specific population trends, and the financial landscape of local hospitals and healthcare facilities. These factors collectively result in lower average earnings for LPNs in Arkansas when compared to the national benchmark.

Average LPN State Salary in Arkansas

$52,540

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Arkansas LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

Typically 11-12 months of full-time study.

Credential Awarded:

Technical Certificate or Diploma in Practical Nursing.

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes. Successful completion makes graduates eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam for LPN licensure.

Program Focus:

Concentrates on fundamental nursing skills, direct patient care, basic pharmacology, and hands-on clinical experience required for entry-level LPN roles.

Average In-State Tuition in Arkansas:

Approximately $8,000 - $15,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Individuals seeking the quickest and most direct path to enter the nursing workforce as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

School Types:

Community colleges, technical colleges, and vocational institutes.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

Typically 2 years (24 months) of full-time study.

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

No. These programs prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse.

Program Focus:

A broader curriculum that includes all LPN skills plus more advanced topics in patient assessment, critical thinking, leadership, and managing complex patient care.

Average In-State Tuition in Arkansas:

Approximately $15,000 - $25,000 for the entire program (excluding books, fees, and supplies).

Best For:

Students whose ultimate goal is to become a Registered Nurse and who want a strong academic foundation for future BSN programs.

School Types:

Community colleges and some universities.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

Speed to Workforce: It is the fastest path to begin a career in nursing, allowing you to start earning an income in about one year.
Lower Initial Cost: The overall tuition and related costs are significantly less than a two-year associate degree program, reducing student debt.
Focused Skill Set: The program is intensely focused on the core, hands-on skills needed for immediate employment, making graduates well-prepared for entry-level LPN duties.
Career Pathway: It serves as an excellent entry point into healthcare. You can work as an LPN while pursuing an LPN-to-RN bridge program later, often with employer tuition assistance.

Choose Associate Degree If:

Higher Licensure Level: It leads directly to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), which provides a wider scope of practice, greater autonomy, and more supervisory responsibilities.
Increased Career Opportunities: An RN license opens doors to a much broader range of specializations, work settings (e.g., critical care, management), and leadership roles.
Higher Earning Potential: Registered Nurses consistently earn a higher average salary than Licensed Practical Nurses.
Seamless Educational Advancement: An associate degree provides a solid academic foundation that transfers more easily and directly into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Arkansas

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$39,260 - $51,190	11-12 months	NCLEX-PN	500-850 hours	$8,000 - $14,000
MA	$28,950 - $37,840	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-200 hours	$5,000 - $11,000
CNA	$28,320 - $35,890	3-8 weeks	Arkansas CNA Competency Exam	16+ hours	$0 - $1,200
DA	$31,560 - $46,230	9-11 months	Arkansas Jurisprudence Exam; DANB's RHS Exam for radiography	300-400 hours	$6,500 - $13,000
Pharm Tech	$29,670 - $38,620	8-10 months	PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) Exam	200-320 hours	$4,500 - $6,000
Phlebotomist	$29,570 - $39,230	8 weeks - 1 semester	PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) Exam	100+ hours	$1,800 - $3,000
OTA	$59,480 - $76,140	2 years (Associate's Degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	640+ hours	$13,000 - $18,000

List of LPN Programs in Arkansas

Looking for LPN programs in Arkansas? We've rounded up the top options to make your search easier. The table below lists each school's city and state, key program highlights, and direct links to their program pages. Whether you're just starting out or need flexible scheduling, you'll find useful details here. Browse through the list to compare schools and take the next step toward becoming a licensed practical nurse.

Jump to City:

Bentonville, AR

NorthWest Arkansas Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in three semesters
- Starts spring
- 2.8 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- NLN exam score required: 138

Blytheville, AR

Arkansas Northeastern College

Certificate/Diploma - Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited
- Faster path to healthcare
- Direct patient care experience
- Work in diverse healthcare settings

Camden, AR

Southern Arkansas University Tech

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Apply by 2026-06-02
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- In-person instruction with labs
- Stackable credentials pathway
- Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing

De Queen, AR

Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- $25 application fee
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available

El Dorado, AR

South Arkansas College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4 concentration options
- 12-Month program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Technical Certificate awarded
- Entry-level nursing career preparation
- Day class on El Dorado campus
- Evening class on El Dorado campus
- Warren campus day class

Forrest City, AR

East Arkansas Community College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- $3,849 total program tuition
- 39 total credit hours
- Financial aid available
- Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing
- Focus on therapeutic communication
- Prepares for LPN licensure

Fort Smith, AR

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing (LPN) Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2-Year program
- Complete in two-year program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- High-tech simulation labs
- Earn college credit in high school
- Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- LPN-to-RN pathway available
- Morning and afternoon sessions

Harrison, AR

North Arkansas College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing TC
Campus Based - Website
- 11-Month program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Clinical experience at local hospital
- Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Transfer to RN Bridge program

Helena, AR

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 42 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Hope, AR

University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana

Certificate/Diploma - Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Prerequisite courses required
- Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Two campus locations available
- Special application deadline applies
- Clinical rotations at local agencies
- CPR certification required for clinicals
- Limited readmission policy

Hot Springs, AR

National Park College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS, ACT
- 11-Month program
- 41 total credit hours
- Full-time enrollment
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts summer
- 100% licensure pass rate

Little Rock, AR

Baptist Health College Little Rock

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: ACT, TEAS
- 1-Year program
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- Classes 4 days per week
- Online component for select students

Mena, AR

University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 11-Month program
- Complete in eleven month program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Combines classroom instruction with clinical experience
- Technical Certificate awarded upon completion
- Full approval by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Preadmission NEX exam required

Monticello, AR

University of Arkansas at Monticello

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 12-Month program
- Complete in one-year program
- 42 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts winter
- Cohort-based structure

Morrilton, AR

University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 18-Month program
- 57 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN

Mountain Home, AR

Arkansas State University-Mountain Home

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- $115 per credit
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in one-year program
- 49 total credit hours
- Apply by 2025-10-15
- Develop critical thinking skills
- Careers in long-term care facilities
- Pathway to RN through bridge program

Newport, AR

Arkansas State University-Newport

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 11-Month program
- Starts fall/spring
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Clinical rotations in healthcare settings

North Little Rock, AR

University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 12-Month program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- Point system admission selection
- Criminal background check required
- Drug screening required

Pine Bluff, AR

Southeast Arkansas College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- $6,000 total program tuition
- $120 per credit
- 50 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum

Pocahontas, AR

Black River Technical College

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing accredited
- Complete in 10.5-month program
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Pocahontas campus only
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Graduates employed at local hospitals
- Articulation agreements with 4-year universities
- Military service obligation readmission guarantee

*Citation: IPEDS 2025, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.