Best 12 BSN Programs in Arkansas for 2026

Residents of Arkansas have often found themselves needing more nurses. Nursing care was once in such high demand that employers offered signing bonuses to any qualified persons who would take a job. While bonuses are no longer common, the nursing jobs are still plentiful. These jobs pay an average salary of over $65,810. That’s a great paycheck, especially in a state with a low cost of living like Arkansas.

There are more than one way to become a registered nurse in the state of Arkansas, like in other states. The quickest way is by earning an associate degree in nursing (ADN), which takes 2-3 years. However, a full Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN, degree gives you more flexibility with your job options. You’ll be able to take on more responsibilities at work and command a higher salary. These programs take four years, requiring a combination of medical coursework and general education classes.

After completing your BSN program, you have to pass the nationwide NCLEX-RN exam. Few people enjoy taking tests, but there are plenty of resources available to help you get ready. After four years of school, you’ll be able to pass the exam with flying colors.

The Best BSN Programs in Arkansas

There are plenty of schools in Arkansas to choose from for your BSN degree. You should look at them all to find a good fit for your academic and personal needs. When thinking about schools, pay close attention to class size and the quality of clinical rotations. Most of all, ensure your chosen school offers an approved BSN program.

1. Arkansas State University-Main Campus

   2105 Aggie Rd, Jonesboro, AR 72401

   (870) 972-2100

2. Arkansas Tech University

   1509 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, AR 72801

   (479) 968-0389

3. Harding University

   915 E Market Ave, Searcy, AR 72149

   (501) 279-4000

4. Henderson State University

   1100 Henderson St, Arkadelphia, AR 71923

   (870) 230-5000

5. Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

   100 E University St, Magnolia, AR 71753

   (870) 235-4000

6. University of Arkansas

   1125 W Maple St, Fayetteville, AR 72701

   (479) 575-2000

7. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

   2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR 72204

   (501) 569-3000

8. University of Arkansas at Monticello

   US-425, Monticello, AR 71656

   (870) 367-6811

9. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

   1200 N University Dr, Pine Bluff, AR 71601

   (870) 575-8000

10. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

    4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205

    (501) 296-1275

11. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

    5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72904

    (479) 788-7000

12. University of Central Arkansas

    201 Donaghey Ave, Conway, AR 72035

    (501) 450-5000

Arkansas State Board of Nursing

For more information, contact the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.