Best Arkansas LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
Arkansas LPN to RN bridge programs are structured to build upon prior nursing knowledge and experience. Students study advanced nursing theory, expand their clinical skills, and learn evidence-based practices. The programs are designed to meet state licensure standards and prepare nurses for RN responsibilities in healthcare settings.
2026 Best LPN to RN Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, AR - Public 4-Year - atu.edu
Associate - LPN-BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Arkansas Tech University's LPN to BSN program offers a hybrid pathway for licensed practical nurses to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It provides advanced placement for up to 17 nursing credits, focusing on clinical judgment, culturally sensitive care, and population management. The program is ACEN-accredited, prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam, and includes clinical experiences. With affordable tuition, including in-state rates for border states and financial aid, it supports diverse healthcare careers in settings like hospitals and home health.
- Accredited by ACEN
- Advanced nursing credit transfer
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Clinical experience opportunities
- In-state tuition for border states
- Multiple healthcare career paths
- Financial aid available
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Arkansas Tech University's LPN to BSN program is a hybrid option that facilitates a seamless transition to a baccalaureate degree for LPNs, featuring advanced credit transfer for prior coursework. Students develop skills in clinical judgment, culturally sensitive care, and technology integration, with clinical simulation experiences. Accredited and designed to prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam, it opens doors to roles in hospitals, hospice, and specialized units, supported by financial aid and accessible tuition policies.
- Accredited nursing program
- Up to 17 nursing credits transfer
- Hybrid learning format
- Clinical simulation experiences
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- Diverse career opportunities
- Financial aid available
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
Batesville, AR - Public 2-Year - uaccb.edu
Associate - LPN to RN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The LPN to RN program at the University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville offers a flexible pathway for licensed practical nurses to advance to registered nursing roles. Available online and on-campus, it starts each spring with applications opening September 1. Admission requires the ATI TEAS entrance exam and may award bonus points for credentials like CNA certification or veteran status. Nationally accredited by ACEN, this program provides high-quality education tailored for working professionals, ensuring thorough preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Available online and on-campus.
- Starts in Spring semester.
- Requires ATI TEAS Entrance Exam.
- Nationally accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Applications open September 1.
- Bonus points for CNA certification.
- Bonus points for veteran status.
- High-quality nursing education.
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana
Hope, AR - Public 2-Year - uaht.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing LPN/LPTN/LVN to RN Transition
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana offers a hybrid Associate of Applied Science in Nursing LPN to RN Transition program, designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their careers. This 12-month program blends interactive video lectures with bi-weekly clinical experiences, providing a flexible schedule ideal for working students. Approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam through a consortium-based curriculum. No entrance exam is required, focusing on practical skills and comprehensive nursing education to excel in healthcare settings.
- 12-month nursing transition program
- Interactive video lecture format
- Clinical experiences every other weekend
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Arkansas State Board approved curriculum
- Flexible evening class schedule
- Consortium-based educational approach
Southern Arkansas University Tech
Camden, AR - Public 2-Year - sautech.edu
Associate - LPN/Paramedic to RN Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Arkansas University Tech offers an 11-month hybrid LPN/Paramedic to RN program, ideal for healthcare professionals seeking to advance to registered nursing roles. This accelerated pathway combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, focusing on comprehensive skill development for diverse healthcare environments. Approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, with no entrance exam required. The program is military-friendly and emphasizes hands-on training for entry-level RN positions.
- 11-month accelerated nursing program
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- For LPNs and Paramedics
- Entry-level RN career preparation
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - Public 4-Year - uark.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas offers an online LPN to BSN program tailored for working LPNs seeking career advancement. This CCNE-accredited program requires 120 credit hours and can be completed in 2-3 years, featuring 100% online coursework with local clinical experiences. Admission prerequisites include 2,000 hours of recent LPN experience and a TEAS exam score of 65% or higher. With affordable in-state tuition at $339.10 per credit hour, it's designed for residents of approved states, providing flexibility for balancing work and studies without a specific concentration focus.
- 100% Online Learning
- 120 Credit Hours Total
- 2-3 Years Completion Time
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Clinical Sites in Local Area
- Limited to 5 State Residents
- $339.10 Per Credit Hour
- TEAS Exam Required
- Work Experience Prerequisite
- Flexible Part-Time Options
Arkansas LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
- Active, unencumbered Arkansas LPN license and graduation from a state approved practical nursing program.
- Completion of prerequisite college courses, commonly including Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology, English Composition, General Psychology, Lifespan Development, College Algebra or Statistics, and often Nutrition. Minimum GPA requirements are typically set by the school.
- Standardized admission testing such as TEAS or HESI, medication calculation competency, and skills validation for advanced placement into RN coursework.
- Current American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers, required immunizations and titers, TB screening, influenza vaccine, and fit testing as required by clinical partners.
- Criminal background check and drug screening consistent with Arkansas clinical site requirements and state licensure processes.
- Professional liability insurance and proof of eligibility to work in clinical settings. Some programs prefer or require recent LPN work experience for advanced standing or evening and weekend tracks.
Admission standards and advanced placement policies vary by school. Many Arkansas programs award transition credit to practicing LPNs after successful completion of a bridge or transition course.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN to RN bridge curricula in Arkansas build on practical nursing experience and emphasize RN level judgement and leadership. You can expect a transition course, advanced adult medical surgical nursing, health assessment, pharmacology updates, mental health, maternal newborn, pediatrics, community and population health, and nursing leadership. Programs use skills laboratories and high fidelity simulation in addition to supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, long term care, and community settings. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX RN and enter entry level professional practice.
State approval is essential. Arkansas programs must be approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing for graduates to be eligible for RN licensure in the state. Many programs also hold national accreditation from ACEN or CCNE. While state approval allows you to sit for the NCLEX RN, national accreditation supports credit transfer to BSN or MSN programs, may expand employment options, and can be important for federal financial aid eligibility.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
In Arkansas, LPN to RN pathways are offered by community and technical colleges as Associate Degree in Nursing bridges and by public universities as BSN option bridges. Programs are available in urban centers and in rural regions to serve the statewide workforce. Delivery formats include day cohorts, evening and weekend cohorts, and hybrid options where theory is delivered online with on campus labs and in person clinicals.
Typical coursework includes:
- LPN to RN transition and role development
- Comprehensive health assessment and pathophysiology application
- Advanced adult medical surgical nursing and care of complex patients
- Mental health nursing
- Maternal newborn and pediatric nursing
- Community and population health
- Nursing leadership, quality, informatics, and evidence based practice
Clinical learning emphasizes clinical judgement, interprofessional communication, delegation, and care coordination across acute, post acute, and community settings consistent with Arkansas practice standards.
Career Outlook
Arkansas RNs work in hospitals, critical access facilities, ambulatory clinics, long term care and skilled nursing, home health and hospice, schools, public health, behavioral health, and telehealth. Shift options range from 8 or 12 hour rotations in inpatient settings to more traditional weekday hours in clinics, public health, and education, which can support different work and life balance needs.
Demand for RNs remains steady across Arkansas, with particular need in rural areas and specialty inpatient services. Compared with LPN practice, the RN scope in Arkansas includes comprehensive assessment, nursing diagnosis, plan of care development, patient education, and leadership responsibilities such as charge roles and care coordination. These differences typically translate to broader job options, expanded clinical autonomy, and higher earning potential. Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, which can increase employment flexibility for qualified RNs.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full time LPN to ADN bridge: commonly 12 to 18 months of nursing coursework after prerequisites are met. Programs run in sequential terms with weekly clinical rotations.
- Part time LPN to ADN bridge: typically 18 to 24 months after prerequisites, with a lighter course load each term.
- Evening and weekend ADN tracks: often 18 to 24 months once prerequisites are completed, with labs and clinicals scheduled during nontraditional hours.
- LPN to BSN bridges: usually 2 to 3 academic years full time after prerequisites, or longer part time, depending on transfer credits and general education completion.
Total time to completion depends on how many prerequisite and general education credits you bring, cohort start dates, and clinical site availability.
2026 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Arkansas
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas |
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| University of Arkansas-Fort Smith |
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| Southern Arkansas University Tech |
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Tuition and Costs
Arkansas public colleges generally price in state tuition by the credit hour. For many community and technical college LPN to ADN bridges, the nursing portion of the program commonly totals in the mid four figure range for in district residents, not including any remaining general education. University based LPN to BSN bridges for in state students often fall in the low to mid five figure range, depending on the number of transferable credits and program specific fees.
Additional costs to budget:
- University and nursing program fees, textbooks, online resources, skills supplies, uniforms, and clinical shoes
- Background check and drug screening, immunizations and titers, CPR certification, and liability insurance
- Transportation to clinical sites and parking
- Application, NCLEX, and initial RN licensure fees in Arkansas
- Housing and living expenses. On campus housing and meal plans vary by institution, and off campus costs differ between metro areas such as Little Rock or Fayetteville and smaller communities. Review local market rates for rent, utilities, and internet when planning your budget.
2026 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Arkansas
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Northeastern College |
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| Southeast Arkansas College |
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| Arkansas State University-Mountain Home |
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Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
Arkansas schools commonly offer hybrid bridge formats. Didactic nursing courses and some general education may be delivered online, while skills labs occur on campus and clinical education occurs in person at approved Arkansas healthcare facilities. Fully online completion of all RN program requirements is not feasible because hands on clinical practice with real patients is required for program approval and RN licensure readiness.
Programs that include distance education are overseen through their Arkansas approval and must demonstrate appropriate clinical supervision, simulation use, and student support. If you need maximum flexibility, look for hybrid cohorts with online lectures paired with consolidated lab days and local clinical placements within Arkansas.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Arkansas
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
After completing an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as a Registered Nurse in Arkansas. Graduates apply to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing for licensure by examination, submit an official transcript showing degree conferral, complete Arkansas state and federal fingerprint-based criminal background checks, and pay required fees. Register for the NCLEX-RN separately, then wait for your Authorization to Test, schedule with Pearson VUE, and test at an approved site. If you do not pass, you may retest in accordance with NCSBN retake policies and any Board-directed remediation.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Arkansas licenses RNs from other U.S. jurisdictions by endorsement. Endorsement typically requires verification of your original RN license, proof of approved education and NCLEX-RN passage, Arkansas state and federal background checks, and fees. The Board may issue a temporary permit so you can practice while your endorsement is finalized. Arkansas does not maintain separate reciprocity agreements outside this process.
Arkansas is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. If Arkansas is your primary state of residence and you meet eNLC criteria, you may hold a multistate RN license that authorizes practice in all compact states. RNs who hold a multistate license from another compact state may practice in Arkansas without obtaining an additional Arkansas license, as long as their multistate license remains active and unencumbered.
Licensure Requirements
- Graduate from a Board-approved RN program at the ADN or BSN level. LPN to RN bridge graduates qualify if the RN program is approved.
- Submit the licensure by examination application to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, pay fees, and have your school send an official transcript showing the RN degree awarded.
- Complete Arkansas state and FBI criminal background checks using the Board’s fingerprint process. Background checks are required for initial Arkansas licensure by exam or endorsement.
- Register for and pass the NCLEX-RN. The Board issues the RN license after all requirements, including background checks and exam results, are received and approved.
- For endorsement applicants, request license verification from your original licensing state and meet all Arkansas requirements. A temporary permit may be available while your application is processed.
- Maintain good moral character and comply with Arkansas nursing laws and rules, including timely reporting of name or address changes and any legal or disciplinary actions.
License Renewal
- Renewal cycle: Arkansas RN licenses are renewed biennially. The Board opens online renewal in the weeks leading up to expiration, and you must renew before your license expires to continue practicing.
- Continuing competency: Complete Board-accepted continuing competency each renewal period. Options include one of the following completed within the renewal cycle:
- Continuing education contact hours from an approved provider
- Current nationally recognized nursing certification
- Completion of an academic course in nursing or a related field
- Practice hours as an RN, as defined by the Board
- Keep documentation of your continuing competency for audit purposes. You may be randomly selected to submit proof.
- Compact status: If you declare Arkansas as your primary state of residence and meet eNLC criteria, you can renew as a multistate licensee. Moving to or from Arkansas may change your compact status and can require additional action.
Average LPN State Salary in Arkansas
$52,540
2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 12 to 18 months.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
This pathway concentrates on providing the core clinical skills and theoretical knowledge required for entry-level RN positions. The curriculum is designed to build upon the existing knowledge of LPNs for a faster transition to the RN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Arkansas:
Varies by institution, but generally ranges from $7,000 to $15,000 for the entire program.
Best For:
LPNs seeking the quickest and most affordable route to becoming a registered nurse and entering the RN workforce.
School Types:
Community colleges and technical colleges.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Generally 2 to 4 years, depending on the program structure and required prerequisite courses.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Provides a broader and more in-depth education, including topics like nursing theory, research, leadership, and public health. It is designed to prepare nurses for a wider range of clinical settings and leadership roles.
Average In-State Tuition in Arkansas:
In-state tuition at universities can range from approximately $9,000 to over $13,000 per year. The University of Arkansas offers a rate of $329.22 per credit hour for their online LPN to BSN program.
Best For:
LPNs aiming for leadership and administrative positions, specialized nursing fields, or who plan to pursue graduate-level nursing education in the future.
School Types:
Universities and four-year colleges, with many programs offered partially or fully online.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Entry into the RN Workforce: These programs are significantly shorter, allowing for a quicker transition to a registered nursing role.
- Lower Cost: The overall tuition and fees for an ADN program are typically more affordable than for a BSN program.
- Strong Foundation for Bedside Nursing: The curriculum is intensely focused on the essential clinical skills needed for direct patient care in various healthcare settings.
- Option to Continue Education Later: Graduates can begin working as RNs and may have the option for their employer to help fund a future RN to BSN bridge program.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Broader Career Opportunities: A BSN opens doors to roles in leadership, management, research, and public health nursing that are often not available to ADN-prepared nurses.
- Higher Earning Potential: On average, BSN-prepared nurses have a higher earning potential over the course of their careers.
- Foundation for Advanced Degrees: A BSN is the necessary stepping stone for pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a doctoral degree in nursing (DNP or PhD).
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Research has indicated that a higher level of nursing education can be associated with better patient outcomes.
List of LPN to RN Programs in Arkansas
Batesville, AR
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville
- Associate - LPN to RN
Online Learning - Website
- Available online and on-campus.
- Starts in Spring semester.
- Requires ATI TEAS Entrance Exam.
- Nationally accredited by ACEN.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Applications open September 1.
- Bonus points for CNA certification.
Beebe, AR
Arkansas State University-Beebe
- Associate - LPN/Paramedic to RN
Campus Based - Website
- Fast-track LPN to RN pathway
- 34 prerequisite, 30 nursing courses
- Builds on previous healthcare experience
- Offered at Searcy campus
- Prepares for multiple healthcare roles
Bentonville, AR
NorthWest Arkansas Community College
- Associate - LPN/Paramedic to RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- Three consecutive semester program
- Up to 40 students accepted
- Online classes with evening clinicals
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Unencumbered Arkansas license needed
- NLN entrance exam required
- Point-based competitive selection
- Interview portion of admission
Blytheville, AR
Arkansas Northeastern College
- Associate - LPN/LVN to RN Bridge Program
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program
- Integrates classroom and clinical learning
- Pathway to RN licensure
- Selective admission process
- Affordable two-year degree option
Camden, AR
Southern Arkansas University Tech
- Associate - LPN/Paramedic to RN Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 11-month accelerated nursing program
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- For LPNs and Paramedics
- Entry-level RN career preparation
El Dorado, AR
South Arkansas College
- Associate - LPN to RN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month transition program
- ARNEC consortium program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Advanced nursing career path
- Associate of Applied Science degree
Fayetteville, AR
University of Arkansas
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Learning
- 120 Credit Hours Total
- 2-3 Years Completion Time
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Clinical Sites in Local Area
- Limited to 5 State Residents
- $339.10 Per Credit Hour
- TEAS Exam Required
Fort Smith, AR
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
- Associate - LPN to ADN pathway
Campus Based - Website
- Two-year accelerated nursing pathway
- Partnership with healthcare providers
- On-campus learning format
- 65 total credit hours
- Active LPN license required
- Competitive NCLEX-RN preparation
- Multiple scholarship options
- Hands-on clinical experience
Harrison, AR
North Arkansas College
- Associate - RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- One-year AAS nursing program
- Full-time on-campus format
- ACEN accredited program
- Licensure preparation
- Clinical experience included
- Arkansas State Board approved
- Articulation agreements available
Hope, AR
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing LPN/LPTN/LVN to RN Transition
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month nursing transition program
- Interactive video lecture format
- Clinical experiences every other weekend
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Arkansas State Board approved curriculum
- Flexible evening class schedule
- Consortium-based educational approach
Little Rock, AR
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Associate - LPN/Paramedic to RN
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- Associate of Applied Science awarded.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- State-of-the-art simulation hospital training.
- Seamless transition to RN-BSN program.
- Clinical, lecture, and lab training.
- Competitive admission process.
- Applications accepted Dec. 15-Jan. 31.
Monticello, AR
University of Arkansas at Monticello
- Associate - AAS in Nursing degree (LPN to RN)
Campus Based - Website
- One-year LPN to RN program
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Current LPN license required
- 2.0 minimum cumulative GPA
- National League for Nursing Exam
- Approved by Arkansas State Board
- Flexible admission pathway
Morrilton, AR
University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton
- Associate - Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse bridge program
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month nursing bridge program
- 48 students per year
- Daytime Tuesday/Thursday classes
- Clinical experiences Fridays/Saturdays
- Requires current LPN license
- 10 prerequisite courses needed
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- NACE exam required
Mountain Home, AR
Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
- Associate - Nursing - PN/Paramedic to RN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester RN bridge program
- $109 per credit hour
- Evening classes weekly
- 60 total credit hours
- Designed for LPNs/Paramedics
- Arkansas State Board approved
- Clinical rotations one day weekly
- 2.5 GPA requirement
Pine Bluff, AR
Southeast Arkansas College
- Associate - Level II: LPN-Paramedic-RN Option
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program.
- Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Current LPN or paramedic license required.
- CPR certification needed.
- Specific test scores for admission.
- Financial aid available.
- Advisors support course selection.
- Minimizes course duplication.
Pocahontas, AR
Black River Technical College
- Associate - LPN-to-RN Transitional Pathway
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month accelerated program
- Evening and weekend classes
- Targeted for working LPNs
- Hybrid learning format
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Minimal prerequisite requirements
- Spring semester admission
Russellville, AR
Arkansas Tech University
- Associate - LPN-BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by ACEN
- Advanced nursing credit transfer
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Clinical experience opportunities
- In-state tuition for border states
- Multiple healthcare career paths
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited nursing program
- Up to 17 nursing credits transfer
- Hybrid learning format
- Clinical simulation experiences
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- Diverse career opportunities
- Financial aid available
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