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Michelle Jones, RN

Best Nursing Schools in Kentucky for 2023

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools Kentucky

The Bluegrass State is currently home to 73,747 active registered nurse licenses according to their State Board of Nursing. If you would like to join them (or even if you are already one of them) multiple prospects for nursing programs are available.

These include options if you are new to nursing or if you are looking to further your education and professional growth.

With so many paths to a nursing career, we recognize that choosing the right school can feel overwhelming. This list is created to help you understand the top 5 nursing schools in Kentucky and important information about each of them. We will cover:

  • Top Nursing Schools in Kentucky
  • How to choose the right program

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1.  University of Kentucky – Score 64.00

  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 98%
  • In-state tuition: $12,610
  • Out-of-State tuition: $31,608

At the top of the list is the University of Kentucky College of Nursing. The University of Kentucky offers opportunities ranging from the traditional BSN degree to a Ph.D. in Nursing. They’re a large program: at the time of their Fall, 2021 enrollment there were a total of 1,589 students enrolled in the College of Nursing. According to the UK website, the National Institute for Research database ranks them at No. 14 nationally among all public and private nursing schools. Their graduation rate is 63%.

The programs being offered at UK are CCNE accredited and include:

  • BSN
    • Traditional
    •  ABSN—both in-person and online learning; includes an LPN to BSN option
    • RN to BSN—fully online
  • MSN—fully online
  • DNP— both in-person and online learning; offering both MSN to DNP or BSN to DNP options
  • APRN Post Graduate Certificates
  • PhD

2. University of Louisville – Score 45.56

  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 89%
  • In-state tuition: $12,174
  • Out-of-State tuition: $28,520

The University of Louisville School of Nursing is part of its Health Sciences Center located in downtown Louisville. It is housed in their medical complex along with the University hospital, which allows the program multiple community partnerships. Their graduation rate is 53%.

The program is CCNE accredited and includes several flexible options for those who already hold degrees:

  • BSN
    • Traditional
    • ABSN—both in-person and online learning
    •  RN to BSN—fully online
  • MEPN—Second-Degrees, on-campus learning
  • MSN APRN
  •  APRN Post Graduate Certificates—mostly online, in-person 4-6 times a semester
  • DNP– offering both MSN to DNP or BSN to DNP options
  •  PhD

3. Eastern Kentucky University – Score 44.89

  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 94%
  • In-state tuition: $9,452
  • Out-of-State tuition: $10,500

The Eastern Kentucky University’s School of Nursing celebrated its 50-year anniversary in 2021. This school has one of the lowest tuitions on the list, making it one of the more affordable options. Their graduation rate is 47%.

ACEN (ADN) and CCNE accredited, the program supports its nursing students with flexible options that can decrease the amount of time they spend in school:

  • ADN—classes structured on-campus one day a week
  • BSN
    • Traditional
    •  ABSN—completed in 21 months
    • RN to BSN—completed online in 12 months
  • MSN—online
  • DNP—online

4. Murray State University – Score 43.78

  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 96%
  •  In-state tuition: $9,252
  • Out-of-State tuition: $14,058

Murray State University is a school of 9,456 students located in Western Kentucky. The School of Nursing is one of MSU’s highest enrolling undergraduate fields. They place an emphasis on their faculty mentoring students, which has resulted in a 10% increase in their NCLEX first-time pass rate.

In addition to the traditional BSN program, the school offers several online programs for obtaining a degree and has a 54% graduation rate.

  • BSN
    • Traditional
    • RN to BSN—completed online in 12 months
  • BSN to DNP—completed online in 3 years
  • MSN to DNP—completed online in 2 years

5. Morehead State University – Score 41.33

  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 98%
  •  In-state tuition: $9,082
  • Out-of-State tuition: $13,726

Morehead State University’s College of Science houses their Department of Nursing. The Department has clinical partnerships with more than 50 health care facilities across Kentucky which provides you multiple opportunities for hands-on learning.

MSU nursing students are involved in sponsoring bi-annual health care career fairs for their community. The department has a 48% graduation rate and consistently maintains a 100% job placement rate for their graduates.

Accredited by either the ACEN (ADN) or the CCNE, here are the possibilities for a degree:

  • ADN—completed in as little as two years; earn concurrent credits toward your RN to BSN
  • BSN
    • Traditional
    • RN to BSN—online, formatted in eight-week modules
  • MSN/FNP—online

How to choose the right nursing program

Each of the criteria we have discussed is important, but there will be a few that will carry more weight for you when making your decision.

Some of the factors you should definitely consider are:

  • Do they offer a program that fits your needs?
  • If you already hold a degree, do they offer a way for you to build on it?
  • Where are they located and will you need to commute?  
  • What are their NCLEX pass rates and tuition costs? 

Location

The nursing schools at the top of Kentucky’s list are located in cities spread across the state. With multiple locations from which to choose, it is likely there will be at least one that stands out. Knowing the location may help you decide which school is right for you and your unique circumstances. For example, think about whether you will be working and need to commute or if the program you want is 100% online. By keeping your criteria in mind, one of these settings should fit your needs.

Tuition

Ultimately, tuition will vary depending on several factors such as being in-state or out-of-state, receiving grants or scholarships, and so on. Many nursing students take out student loans to help pay for school. If you were one of them and are now pursuing an advanced degree, you may also be bringing previous student debt with you.

Nurses are in a unique position for assistance with loan repayment or loan forgiveness. It’s helpful to do some thorough research now to help you understand all your options.

NCLEX Pass Rate

To work as a registered nurse, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, the NCLEX-RN. All of the schools on our list have good NCLEX pass rates, some very high. This is important information to have since a nursing school should ultimately be preparing you to pass the NCLEX. When visiting with the faculty at your schools of choice, be sure to ask them about their pass rates and their graduation rates.

Programs Offered

Finding the correct program for your situation is very important. There are so many options at each of these schools, you must make sure you choose a program that meets your unique needs.

If you’re interested in going into advanced practice, you may also want to consider programs for the future. It’s helpful to continue your career growth in a program that builds on the education you’ve already received.

Graduation Rate

Each school’s graduation rate is based on the percentage of first-time undergraduate students who complete their 4-year program in 4-6 years. It’s always helpful to know how many students are admitted to a program, but it is equally important to understand how many students obtain their degree in a timely manner.

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Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

We used data from 

Next Steps

Hopefully, all the information we’ve provided will help you narrow your choices. Now you can make the most informed decision possible and send in your application. We’re so excited to help you find the right school, and when you start looking for a job we’ll be here to help the right employer find you!

The following sources were used to create the nursing school profiles:

Eastern Kentucky University School of Nursing nursing.eku.edu. Accessed April 18, 2022.

Kentucky State Board of Nursing kbn.ky.gov. Accessed April 18, 2022.

Morehead State University College of Science moreheadstate.edu. Accessed April 18, 2022.

Murray State University School of Nursing and Health Professions murraystate.edu. Accessed April 18, 2022.

Michelle Jones is a registered nurse and freelance health writer.  She specializes in Health Journalism and writing content for Health and Wellness companies. Michelle graduated from Carroll College in Helena, Montana with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  She has spent the last 32 years working in Oncology in both private practice and large healthcare systems.

Read more from Michelle

Should I Become a NP or a MD?  Comparing the Paths

Nurse Types / Nurse Practitioner / NP vs MD

If you’re thinking about pursuing a degree to provide advanced medical care to patients, you may be considering either a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or a Medical Doctor (MD) degree.

If you’re having trouble deciding which path to choose, you’re not alone! Many people spend a lot of time agonizing over the choice—it’s a big decision. This article’s aim is to make that decision easier for you. We will cover:

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General overview

To start, we’re going to take a look at an overview of scenarios to help you decide which program makes the most sense for you.

Stick with a NP pathway program if…Go with a MD pathway program if…
you like a more comprehensive but still personal approach to health care. NPs combine their clinical work with education, disease prevention, and counseling which is not always the focus of MDs.you like the science of medicine. MDs train in organic chemistry and physics, not typically required in nursing or NP programs. MD school includes more rigorous upper-division science coursework.
you’re seeking a faster way to advanced practice. If better work-life balance is important to you, a NP has more flexibility and more options for accelerated training than a MD. you want to practice more autonomously. No matter how specialized you become as an NP—even with an independent practice—there will always be limits to what you can do legally as an NP that you won’t have as an MD.
you’re happy with the options available for specialty care. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, while the majority of NPs practice in primary care, there are 8 specialty care areas and 13 sub-specialties from which you may choose.you want to specialize more deeply in a specific area of health care. While there are specialties available to NPs, the broader range of specialties are only open to MD practices.

NP and MD Comparison

Although there are some similarities between the roles that nurse practitioners and medical doctors have in the healthcare field. There are some factors to help you decide which pathway makes more sense for your nursing journey. 

The main point people consider is time and cost. It definitely takes longer to become an MD than an NP.  While there are accelerated programs for an NP license, there are very few for an MD.

Cost commitment for each program 

Average tuition

The average cost of tuition will vary since there can be such a difference between the type and location of the schools. Some general numbers are available, but you should always do your research on the schools of your choice to determine which is best for you.

  • The average tuition costs for an MSN NP degree are between $35,000 and $65,000 but the overall costs can be higher.
  • The average tuition cost for 4 years of medical school is $218,792. 

Scholarship opportunities 

There are a few medical schools that offer a tuition-free degree, with housing and administrative costs being covered by the student. However, obtaining a medical or NP school scholarship is just like any other scholarship. 

There are many grad school scholarships available, some are specific to the school, others are available through public and private donors or associations.  Finding a scholarship requires diligence, time, and effort but can be extremely rewarding.  There are multiple websites to help you search for one that matches your background, skills, and goals.

Employer education reimbursement

Some employers provide reimbursement for attending school but be aware of the conditions to their funding.  

For example, an employer typically requires you to work for them for a certain amount of time after becoming licensed. You should be aware of what happens if you leave before that time. If available, tuition reimbursement can be a huge blessing, just make sure it’s not a blessing in disguise.

In making your decision, it is so important to understand your “why”. If possible, you shouldn’t choose one option or the other simply because of the time or money involved. 

Ultimately, it may be helpful to think about where you want to be in 10 years and honestly decide which path fits your lifestyle and which career will make you feel the most fulfilled (with the least regret) in the end.

Program requirements

Prior experience and prerequisites 

In general, you must be an RN (BSN) with an unencumbered license, 1 year or more of nursing experience, and a strong academic background. 

Completed classes and labs should include anatomy and Physiology, chemistry, biomedical statistics, microbiology, and English composition. Some programs require that you pass the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). You also must decide on a specialty, so understand what is offered at your schools of choice and ensure they fit your needs.

You don’t need any specific experience prior to applying to medical school. However, schools are looking for candidates who are well-versed and match their philosophy. Schools also will have a minimum GPA requirement for certain programs, so be sure to check with the institutions you are interested in for their specific requirements.

Medical schools typically require you have at least 1 year each of biology, both organic and inorganic chemistry, and physics classes (and the labs related to each). Some schools also require an English or writing course as well as calculus. 

Additional courses will cover material you will need to pass your Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) so you should include those in your curriculum. The Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) is a good resource to understand the admission requirements for specific medical schools. 

Reference letters

Most nurse practitioner programs require 2-3 letters of recommendation. Even if they’re not required, it’s a good idea to include at least 1 or 2.  

Reference letters should come from someone with excellent writing skills who knows the applicant from their time spent together in the nursing field. 

Most medical schools require applying through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). Letters of recommendation should be sent directly to AMCAS by the writer or school. 

In general, 2 letters from a science professor and 1 from a non-science professor are required. Just as for a nurse practitioner, the letter for medical school should come from someone well acquainted with the candidate. If at all possible, having an MD (someone who understands the process) write those letters can be an advantage.

Role differences

Now that you have a good idea of how the pathways vary, we can go over a brief overview of the differences in the job duties of a nurse practitioner and a medical doctor.

Overview of NP job duties

NPs are able to provide health care services covering a wide range of areas in primary, acute, or specialty care. Currently, 88.9% of NPs work in a primary care area.

  • Diagnose/manage acute or chronic illnesses
  • Order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests (imaging or labs)
  • Prescribe medications
  • Disease prevention, health education, and counseling
  • Depending on state regulations, licensure, and specialty, some NPs are able to practice independently, but some require more physician oversight

Overview of MD job duties

MDs are also trained to provide care in primary, acute, or specialty areas. However, there are some differences in their day-to-day responsibilities. Some of the duties of a medical doctor are:

  • Autonomously diagnose and treat all diseases
  • Order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests
  • Independently prescribe medications
  • Perform operations (surgeons) and other complex medical procedures

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FAQs

How long does it take to become an NP?

Generally speaking, it takes 2 years for the practicing RN to become Master’s prepared for a NP license. It takes about the same time for the MSN to DNP route.

How long does it take to become an MD?


It typically takes 2 years to obtain the premedical requirements (pre-reqs), take the MCAT, and apply to medical school.  Once accepted, there are 4 years of medical school (a few programs offer a 3-year option) and then an additional 3-7 years of training in a specialty.

What is the average salary of a MD?

According to Payscale, the average salary for a MD in the United States is $161,994 – an effective hourly rate of $77.42.

What is the average salary of a NP?

According the the BLS, the average salary for a nurse practitioner in the United States is $118,040 – an effective hourly rate of $56.75.

Sources
  • “What’s an MD, DO, NP, PA and MA?”  honorhealth.com. Accessed September 24, 2022.
  • “NP Fact Sheet.” aanp.org. Accessed September 24, 2022.
  • “Nurse Practitioner School Requirements – Admission & Prerequisites.” nursingprocess.org. Accessed September 24, 2022.
  • “Medical School Prerequisites.” kaptest.com.  Accessed September 24, 2022.
  • “10 Sample Letters of Recommendation for Nurse Practitioner School.” nursingprocess.org. Accessed September 24, 2022.
  • “Medical School Letters of Recommendation: The Definitive Guide.” shemmassianconsulting.com. Accessed September 24, 2022.
  • “Consortium of Accelerated Medical Pathway Programs.”   med.nyu.edu. Accessed September 24, 2022.“Average Cost of Medical Schoo.” educationdata.org. Accessed September 24, 2022.

Michelle Jones is a registered nurse and freelance health writer.  She specializes in Health Journalism and writing content for Health and Wellness companies. Michelle graduated from Carroll College in Helena, Montana with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  She has spent the last 32 years working in Oncology in both private practice and large healthcare systems.

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All About the TEAS Exam with Tips to Help You Pass

Nursing Degrees & Schools / TEAS Exam

Congratulations on your decision to attend nursing school! Most nursing schools—although not all—require taking the TEAS exam as a way to determine if a student is ready for the rigors of a nursing education. 

This article will give you an overview of the TEAS exam and help you create a solid plan for passing it.

We will cover the following:

What is the TEAS exam?

The TEAS is a standardized admissions test for health-related college programs and can be either computer-administered or in paper and pencil format. The current exam is version 7, released on June 3, 2022. The test features 4 general sections.

  • Is it mandatory?

Most nursing schools require a passing TEAS score, especially in more competitive nursing programs.

For example, if a school has space for 50 students but receives 200 applications, they must use different factors to evaluate which applicants have the best chance of being successful. TEAS is one of the tools they can use to help them do that.

  • When is it taken?

Usually, students take this exam when they are ready to apply to their nursing program. Students often take it in advance, leaving enough time before the application deadline to retest if needed.

  • How long is it?

The test contains a total of 170 questions, with only 150 questions scored. The 20 unscored questions are used for internal purposes. It may not be clear which of the questions in each section are unscored. 

You will have 209 minutes to complete the test.

When should I expect results?

How you take the test will determine when you receive your results. For example, you could receive your results right away following an online exam via ATI. If you took the exam at a PSI testing center, you can expect results within 72 hours.

Your school may also have a policy on how soon you are allowed to view your results. ATI will send 1 transcript to the school of your choice. 

Additional transcripts are available to purchase for submission to other schools. Be sure to check to make certain those schools accept results from other locations.

HESI and HESI A2 vs. TEAS: What’s the difference?

While this article’s focus is on the TEAS exam, it is also helpful to understand a little about the other entrance exam that may be used by nursing schools: the HESI and HESI A2 exams. If you are applying to multiple nursing schools, you may need to take both.

While the TEAS exam is a broader test of knowledge, the HESI also focuses on medical-related knowledge in addition to general areas.

HESI stands for “Health Education Systems, Inc.” and A2 stands for “Admission Assessment.” The HESI has 7 sections. However, most schools don’t require you to test on all of them.

The programs you consider will have specific information on which exam they require for admission.

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What is covered on the exam?

There are many methods for taking the TEAS, but it is always the same exam no matter where or in which format you take it. There are 4 sections on the exam to assess your knowledge in reading, math, science, and English and language usage. Each section has a specific number of questions and its own allotted time limit:

Reading

  • Number of Questions: 45 (6 of them are unscored)
  • Time to answer: 55 minutes
  • Content: Key ideas and details, Craft and Structure, and Integration of knowledge and ideas.

Math

  • Number of Questions: 38 (4 are unscored)
  • Time to answer: 57 minutes
  • Content: Numbers and algebra and Measurement and data.

Science

  • Number of Questions: 50 (6 are unscored)
  • Time to answer: 60 minutes
  • Content: Human anatomy and physiology, Biology, Chemistry, and Scientific reasoning.

English and language usage:

  • Number of Questions: 37 (4 are unscored)
  • Time to answer: 37 minutes
  • Content: Conventions of Standard English, Knowledge of language, and vocabulary to express ideas in writing.

This current version of the TEAS exam also incorporates new question types. Historically, the TEAS exam has been multiple-choice. However, it now includes multiple select, fill-in-the-blank, ordered responses and hot spots.

In-person testing

If you are taking the exam in person, it is essential to note what items are prohibited.

Do NOT take:

  • Electronics, including cell phones and calculators (calculators are provided there)
  • Extra layers of clothing (anything you bring is subject to inspection)
  • Personal items like purses or backpacks
  • Food or drink unless medically necessary.

Do take:

  • Photo ID
  • Your ATI log-in information (obtained at the time you registered for the exam)
  • Any items your school may specifically require
  • Two sharpened No. 2 pencils (if taking the paper version of the exam)

Online testing

If you are taking the TEAS online, you will have several steps to complete before exam day. Firstly, you need to make sure your computer meets the system requirements required for the test. You will also take a “dry run” in the online testing environment prior to exam day. The “dry-run” will help pre-identify any potential issues.

On your test day, you will log in to your account, follow instructions, and a proctor will approve you to begin the test. 

How should I prepare for the TEAS exam?

The best advice for preparation is to make sure you give yourself time. ATI recommends you allow at least 6 weeks of preparation time. 

If you are vying with other potential students for a few open slots in a nursing program, it is well worth your best efforts to ensure you score well on the TEAS exam.

Two popular approaches for TEAS exam prep are doing a self-guided study or purchasing a program. Your school may also have materials you can use to prepare.

Determine Requirements

The first thing to do is register for your test date, time, and location. Before you do that, check with the school(s) to which you are applying to determine if they have their own requirements for testing. Some schools will not accept TEAS exam results from another institution or location, so it is essential to understand your school’s policy before registering.

The biggest mistake made during testing is not reading the question carefully enough. Luckily, there is an easy fix for that! Just be sure to thoroughly read the section and the questions so you understand the question.

Studying Resources

Practice tests—especially at the beginning and again towards the end of your studying—are incredibly beneficial. Practice tests will help you understand where you need to focus your efforts. 

Sites like Kaplan Nursing and Union Test Prep offer free practice tests. Other sites offer tests for purchase, especially as part of a package of study aids.

On exam day, get a good night’s sleep, eat at least a small breakfast, stay hydrated, and don’t be late for the test! If you’re going to a testing center, make sure you know where it is and its parking situation.

Once you get your results, you can decide if the score is high enough. If you want to go for a higher score, you will be able to re-take the test 2 more times if needed.

The average score is 60%, but some schools may expect scores closer to 80% for admission. You’ll need to understand how the school of your choice defines a passing score and how many times that school allows you to take the TEAS exam.

Next Steps

Once you have successfully passed the TEAS exam, allow yourself some time to celebrate your accomplishment! If you’re still uncertain about which nursing school you will attend, we have valuable information for multiple options to help you decide.

You should also hang on to the studying tips you’ve learned here. They will be handy on tests you will take during nursing school and when you’re approaching your next big, standardized test: the NCLEX.  

Finally, sometimes it helps to connect with fellow nursing students and mentors who understand what you’re going through. Keep in mind resources like our forum, where you can ask questions and receive advice from someone who’s been there.

And once you pass the NCLEX, we’ll help your ideal employer find their way to you!

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Sources

“About the ATI TEAS.” atitesting.com. Accessed May 30, 2022.

“HESI® vs. TEAS: What’s the Difference?.” uniontestprep.com Accessed May 30, 2022.

“ATI TEAS FAQ Center.” help.atitesting.com. Accessed May 30, 2022.

“FREE ATI TEAS® PRACTICE TEST QUESTIONS.” kaptest.com Accessed May 30, 2022.

“Need help with the TEAS?” uniontestprep.com Accessed May 30, 2022.

Michelle Jones is a registered nurse and freelance health writer.  She specializes in Health Journalism and writing content for Health and Wellness companies. Michelle graduated from Carroll College in Helena, Montana with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  She has spent the last 32 years working in Oncology in both private practice and large healthcare systems.

Read more from Michelle

Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas for 2023

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Best Schools Arkansas

In evaluating all the Arkansas nursing schools, 5 rose to the top. Ranked in our survey according to 7 criteria—such as tuition rates, NCLEX scores, and available nursing programs—we have created a list of diverse options for the aspiring Arkansan nurse.

In order to find the town or city where these schools are located, you can reference this map. Now, let’s dive into our top nursing schools in Arkansas!

Arkansas’s top nursing program:

  1. Arkansas State University
  2. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
  3. Harding University
  4. University of Arkansas
  5. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

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1.  Arkansas State University (Jonesboro, Ark.) – score 72

  • Graduation rate 49%
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 91.2%
  • Tuition:  $6,540 (in state), $13,500 (out of state)

Coming in at the top of our list of nursing schools in Arkansas, A-State has a number of criteria working in its favor.

As an in-state student, your annual tuition and fees will be approximately $6,540. However, if you are an out-of-state student you will pay approximately $13,500 to attend per year. Another feature is their NCLEX passing rate which is very good at 91.2%.

A-State is only one of 2 schools on our list that offers an Associate degree in nursing. You have the option of completing the program in-person or online.

Traditional programs include:

  • AASN Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (2 options)
  • BSN Bachelor of Science in Nursing (3 options)
  • MSN Master of Science in Nursing (multiple concentration areas are available)

Online programs include:

  • AASN Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
  • BSN Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • DNP Doctor of Nursing Practice

A-State has more than 14,000 students which is one of the larger schools on our list. If you prefer a larger campus or are searching for an Associate nursing degree program, A-State may be right for you.

2. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (Little Rock, Ark.) – score 65

  • Graduation rate 80%
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 89.6%
  • Tuition:  $9,270 (in state), $18,960 (out of state)

The College of Nursing at UAMS enjoys a large number of partnerships in its community since it’s located in Arkansas’ only academic health science center. 

Students attending UAMS can participate in many community projects including health fairs, food pantries, vaccine clinics, career days, and vision screenings.

As a public university, the annual tuition rates at UAMS are a little below average for the nursing schools surveyed in our list. In-state annual tuition will cost you approximately $9,270 while out-of-state tuition is approximately $18,960.

The College of Nursing provides multiple degrees to over 600 students. The levels of degrees include:

The NCLEX pass rate is 89.6% for their undergraduate programs. Of their 6 graduate Nurse Practitioner Certification programs, nearly all achieved a 100% pass rate (one was at 92%).

If a variety of clinical settings in which to do your hands-on learning is important to you, you may want to consider the College of Nursing at UAMS.

3. Harding University (Searcy, Ark.) – score 57

  • Graduation rate 64%
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 97.8%
  • Tuition:  $21,690.00

The Carr College of Nursing is part of Harding University and is one of the larger options in private schools in the state. The university is known for its emphasis on Christianity.

As a private university, the in-state and out-of-state annual tuition are the same at $21,690.00. Their NCLEX passing rate is the highest of all the schools on our list at 97.8%. 

This nursing school offers several full and part-time options for nursing degrees:

4. University of Arkansas (Fayetteville, Ark.) – score 55

  • Graduation rate 63%
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 88.1%
  • Tuition: $7,666 (in state), $24,482 (out of state)

The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing is one of 10 colleges at the University of Arkansas. They offer several programs if you want to become a nurse or advance your education and degree. 

  •  LPN to BSN online and can be completed in 2-3 years
  •  RN to BSN online and can be completed in 1 year
  •  BSN
  •  MSN (Nurse Educator concentration): online program
  •  DNP online with some minimal campus visits 

Although the University is quite large—29,068 enrolled at last count—they boast a small student-faculty ratio at 19:1.

Additionally, their NCLEX pass rate is 88.1%.

Their annual in-state tuition is $7,666; their out-of-state tuition rate is the highest of the public universities on our list at $24,482.

If you are interested in a smaller student-faculty ratio but a larger campus, consider becoming a Razorback!

5. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Little Rock, Ark.) – score 52

  • Graduation rate 38%
  • NCLEX Pass Rate: 83%
  • Tuition: $6,495 (in state), $18,750 (out of state)

The UA Little Rock School of Nursing offers a few paths to becoming an RN which are different from most programs. The school has options available for pursuing an online BSN degree while working.

The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) is similar to other Associate Degree programs. Once completed you would be eligible to sit for the NCLEX or move on to their online RN to BSN program.

If you are already an LPN or a paramedic, they have an accelerated BSN program designed to be completed in 1 year (3 terms). 

UALR has multiple program options:

In general, it is on the lower side of our list for in-state tuition at $6,495. The average out-of-state tuition is $18,750. 

While their NCLEX pass rate is the lowest of the schools on our list at 83%, their BSN program was ranked as one of the World Report’s Best Nursing Programs by U.S News. 

How to choose the right nursing program

Each of the criteria we discuss is important, but there will be a few that stand out to you given your unique set of circumstances. 

Some of the factors you should definitely consider are the programs being offered, tuition costs, and their NCLEX pass rate. 

Finding the correct program for your situation is very important. There are so many options at each of these schools, you must make sure you choose a program that meets your unique needs.

Ultimately, tuition will vary depending on several factors such as being in-state or out of state, receiving grants or scholarships, and so on. So, it’s always best to be thorough and do your research. 

All of the schools on our list have good NCLEX pass rates. When visiting with the faculty at your schools of choice, be sure to ask them about their pass rates and their graduation rates.

Next Steps

Hopefully, all the information we’ve provided for you will help you narrow your choices. With a focused list of possible nursing schools, it will be easier to review their pros and cons online.  

It’s a good idea to write down all your questions and reach out to the schools you’re interested in to help you make the most informed decision possible. Once you do that, you’re well on your way to one of the best career opportunities available!

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Ranking Methodology

In order to determine the best nursing schools in a state, Incredible Health compared the top schools among five categories: graduation rate, tuition, NCLEX pass rate, accreditation, and the number of nursing programs offered.

Each metric was scored on a 100-point scale with 100 representing the highest total for that category. Then we compiled the individual scores to get an overall score.

Sources:

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

Michelle Jones is a registered nurse and freelance health writer.  She specializes in Health Journalism and writing content for Health and Wellness companies. Michelle graduated from Carroll College in Helena, Montana with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  She has spent the last 32 years working in Oncology in both private practice and large healthcare systems.

Read more from Michelle