The Best Arkansas LPN Programs
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: DenisTangneyJr / iStock / Getty Images PlusA licensed practical nurse (LPN) provides direct patient care, such as personal hygiene, therapeutic procedures, and medication administration, under the supervision of a registered nurse. An LPN track benefits students who are still determining their nursing career path. LPN programs allow nurses to begin working and later decide if they want to further their education.
This guide offers information on how LPN programs in Arkansas work, how to apply, and the importance of accreditation.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best Arkansas LPN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
At a Glance: The Top 4 Arkansas LPN Programs
- Arkansas State University
- Baptist Health College
- Arkansas State University Three Rivers
- Northwest Technical Institute
How Do Arkansas LPN Programs Work?
Arkansas LPN programs are usually fast-paced, allowing students to complete coursework in 12 months. Classes take place on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. The curriculum includes fundamentals of nursing, documentation, and specialty nursing areas, such as medical/surgical nursing, women’s health, pediatrics, and gerontology.
Clinical practicums concentrate on providing healthcare to people of all ages. Arkansas LPN programs must provide at least 560 hours of theory and 768 clinical practicum hours.
Once the coursework and clinical practicums are completed, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed as an LPN.
Applying to an Arkansas LPN Program
Applying to an Arkansas LPN program usually involves the submission of an online application and high school transcripts. Admission requirements vary from one institution to another. Some schools require minimum ACT or other college test scores. There may be pre-requisite requirements, such as an anatomy and physiology course.
Admission Materials
High school or GED diploma; official high school or GED transcripts; anatomy and physiology with a lab component; ACT exam scoresOther Requirement
Immunization records
Why Is Arkansas LPN Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation involves a third party’s thorough review of a school’s faculty, coursework, study materials, and labs to meet quality standards. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) often accredits LPN programs. It is essential to select an accredited program for many reasons, including:
- Accredited programs provide quality education.
- Graduates of accredited institutions gain the skills and knowledge to practice nursing at LPN diploma-level nursing standards.
- Many institutions do not accept the transfer of credits from an unaccredited college or university.
- Several types of student financial aid, including federal loans, are only available to accredited schools.
Our top-ranked list of LPN programs in Arkansas includes only accredited schools.
Learn More About the Best Arkansas LPN Programs and Schools
The Newport site was founded in 1976 as a vocational technical school. However, it merged with ASU in 1992 and it became a stand-alone campus in April 2000. The school currently has three campuses, which all offer practical nursing certificates.
Campus: Jonesboro, Arkansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $5,310
Completion Time: 10 months
Online Availability: Yes
Degree Requirements: Open admission
Programs: Practical Nursing
School website: AR State University Technical Center
Licensed practical nurses work under the supervision of registered nurses. They help patients with their direct care, which includes such things as treatment, personal hygiene and the administration of medication. The Baptist Health Schools Little Rock has a fantastic program in place to help students become the best at being an LPN, while being driven by faith.
Campus: Little Rock, Arkansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: NLNAC
Tuition: Varies depending on the needs of the student
Completion Time: 2 semesters
Online Availability: Yes
Degree Requirements: GED, transcripts, ACT
Programs: Practical Nursing
School website: Baptist Health Schools Little Rock
The college is a two year college that also oversees the OACC (Ouachita Area Career Center). Furthermore, it works with a range of post-secondary programs, offers adult education and has a full workforce center. It is a popular school both for those who want to achieve a certificate and go straight into the workforce, and those who want to move on to further education.
Campus: Malvern, Arkansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $1,950 in state or $3,900 out of state
Completion Time: One year
Online Availability: Yes
Degree Requirements: Open admission
Programs: Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing, Practical Nursing Technical Certificate, Medication Administration Program Certificate of Proficiency, Nursing Assistant Certificate of Prophiciency
School website: Arkansas State University Three Rivers
Northwest Technical Institute offers a practical nursing program together with the NWA community. Their commitment is in making sure that the best nursing education is provided. Hence, the educational needs of the students are fully met, whether they wish to enter the nursing profession directly or whether they wish to continue in their educational pathway.
Campus: Springdale, Arkansas
Type: Public
Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education and/or the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the State Board of Career Education
Tuition: $2,016
Completion Time: One year
Online Availability: Yes
Degree Requirements: COMPASS, TEAL, GED, transcripts, immunization records, references
Programs: Practical nursing
School website: Northwest Technical Institute
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas LPN Programs
How do I get my LPN license in Arkansas?
To get an LPN license in Arkansas, you must graduate from an accredited LPN program, complete all clinical requirements, and pass the NCLEX-PN for licensure.
How much does an LPN make in Arkansas?
According to 2021 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, LPNs in Arkansas made a mean salary of $43,040, or $20.69 per hour. However, LPN income can vary by employer, geographic location, and experience.
How long is an LPN program in Arkansas?
Students can complete an LPN program in Arkansas in 12-15 months. Completion times may vary by school and whether you attend on a part- or full-time basis.
Is it worth becoming an LPN in Arkansas?
It is well worth it to become an LPN in Arkansas. Getting your LPN license can be a springboard to continuing your education and positioning yourself for a higher salary and greater career advancement. There are many LPN-to-RN programs, many of which are offered online for working LPNs.
