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.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Arkansas
Baptist Health College Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - Private 2-year - bhclr.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Baptist Health College Little Rock's Practical Nursing program is a campus-based, two-semester course starting in January and July. It emphasizes direct patient care under supervision, requiring prerequisites like Anatomy and Physiology I with lab. Admission necessitates a TEAS or ACT score, and financial aid is available. The program features rolling admissions and limited online options, focusing on hands-on clinical experience for aspiring nurses.
- 2 Semesters in length
- Classes begin in January and July
- Campus-based program
- TEAS or ACT score required
- Anatomy and Physiology prerequisite
- Direct patient care training
- Financial aid available
- Rolling admissions cycle
- Limited online options available
- Supervised clinical experience
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 program leading to a 42-hour Technical Certificate, designed to equip students with comprehensive skills for community healthcare roles. The program stands out with a perfect 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate in recent years, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure. Clinical experiences are available at both Helena-West Helena and DeWitt campuses, providing hands-on training. Admission is competitive, requiring a 2.0 GPA, specific course prerequisites, and successful completion of reading and critical thinking exams, but no ACT or SAT is needed. This affordable program focuses on practical nursing scope and community needs, making it a solid choice for aspiring LPNs in Arkansas.
- 42-hour Technical Certificate
- 100% NCLEX-PN Pass Rate
- Two Campus Locations
- Competitive Admission Process
- Clinical Experience Included
University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain
Mena, AR - Public 2-Year - uarichmountain.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain offers an 11-month Licensed Practical Nursing program that provides comprehensive training through classroom instruction and clinical practice. This campus-based program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and requires a preadmission NEX exam with a $52.50 fee. Admission prerequisites include high school or GED transcripts, immunization records, and any applicable college transcripts. Approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, this program delivers focused education for those seeking efficient entry into practical nursing careers.
- 11-month program duration
- Combines classroom and clinical experience
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
- Approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Requires NEX preadmission exam
- $52.50 exam fee
- Immunization records required
- High school or GED transcripts needed
- College transcripts if applicable
- On-campus program
University of Arkansas at Monticello
Monticello, AR - Public 4-Year - uamont.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas at Monticello's Practical Nursing program stands out as the top-ranked LPN program in Arkansas. This intensive 12-month curriculum blends classroom instruction with extensive clinical rotations across diverse healthcare environments. Students gain practical experience working directly with nurse preceptors while studying essential topics like pharmacology, geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Admission requires demonstrated academic excellence, standardized test scores, and professional recommendations. Graduates emerge workforce-ready, with many securing employment at their clinical training sites, while the program also provides a solid foundation for advancing to higher nursing degrees.
- 12-month program duration.
- Combines classroom and clinical learning.
- Real-world experience with nurse preceptors.
- Admission requires strong academic performance.
- Graduates well-prepared for workforce.
- Opportunity for further nursing education.
- Comprehensive curriculum includes pharmacology.
- Hands-on training in healthcare settings.
- Admission based on test scores and recommendations.
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
Batesville, AR - Public 2-Year - uaccb.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing Technical Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Licensed Practical Nursing Technical Certificate at University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville delivers comprehensive healthcare training through integrated classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. This campus-based program specifically meets Arkansas State Board of Nursing standards, preparing graduates for NCLEX-PN licensure eligibility. Students develop essential practical nursing skills focused on direct patient care, supported by affordable tuition and financial aid accessibility. The program's structured approach ensures rapid entry into the nursing profession while maintaining rigorous educational standards required for successful healthcare practice in Arkansas.
- Combines classroom and clinical experience.
- Meets Arkansas State Board requirements.
- Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
- Approved by Arkansas State Board.
- Campus-based program.
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.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Arkansas
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Baptist Health College Little Rock |
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| Arkansas Northeastern College |
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| University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College |
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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.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Arkansas
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| North Arkansas College |
|
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| Arkansas State University-Newport |
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| Arkansas State University-Mountain Home |
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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 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 |
Arkansas LPN Program Resources
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