Top RN-to-MSN Programs in Arkansas

Choosing to study towards an MSN degree program is a really good career choice for those who already are registered nurses (RNs). It is known that holding an MSN degree opens up better career options and it leads to a significant increase in salary as well. When choosing an MSN degree in Arkansas, it is very important that you choose a specialization that interests you and that you find a good school.

Let’s take a look first at salaries and job outlook for MSN degree holders in Arkansas.

Within Arkansas, the variation between the salaries for RNs with an MSN is very large. This is due to a range of different factors, including population, employer and market competitiveness. Nevertheless, the job outlook and salaries are good throughout the state.

Only 1% of all the RNs in the country work in Arkansas, which equates to around 23,730 nurses. The average annual salary, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, was $56,500 per year, or $27.16 per hour, in 2010. This is well below the national average, but it is important to note that the cost of living in Arkansas is much lower than the national average as well.

The top 10% of RNs in Arkansas earn $74,600 or more while the bottom 10% earn less than $37,910. Generally, this is linked to their experience and, as the most important factor, their education. Indeed, the top 10% all hold at least an MSN degree, whereas the bottom 10% tend to hold an associate’s degree.

In terms of where the highest salaries are paid, Hot Springs is the best place to work in. The median annual wage is $72,360, which is higher than the national average. However, it should also be observed that the cost of living is slightly higher in Hot Springs than elsewhere in the state although it is still far below the national average. It is a fantastic place to work as a nurse, but competition is fierce and only very few positions are available.

Other areas where the salaries for RNs are high include those near to the Texas border. Generally speaking, the highest salaries are earned at surgical and medical hospitals, where demand for nurses is also the highest. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this demand for nurses will continue to grow above the national average in the state of Arkansas.

It is very important to choose a degree program that fits your personal interests and your career objectives. There are many programs to choose from in Arkansas, so you should spend your time doing some research.

Let’s take a look at what we think are the top Arkansas MSN degree programs.