Best Nursing Schools in Booneville, Arkansas

Key Takeaways

• Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus is the top nursing option within commuting distance of Booneville, offering accredited LPN and RN pathways with strong clinical partnerships.
• Most Booneville-area students choose between Practical Nursing (LPN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or an RN-to-BSN pathway.
• Accreditation by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and ACEN or CCNE is essential for licensure and employment.
• NCLEX pass rates, tuition, and clinical access are the most important metrics when comparing programs.
• Logan County and surrounding areas show steady demand for nurses, particularly in long-term care and rural healthcare facilities.

Nursing Education Options Near Booneville, Arkansas

Booneville is a small city in Logan County, but aspiring nurses have strong education options within driving distance. When evaluating the best nursing schools in Booneville, Arkansas, proximity, accreditation, cost, and career outcomes matter more than brand name alone.

The most relevant campus for local students is Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus, located about 20 miles from Booneville. Additional options can be found in nearby cities such as Russellville and Fort Smith.

Top Nursing Schools Serving Booneville Students

1. Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus

Location: Ozark, AR
Distance from Booneville: Approximately 25 minutes
Accreditation: Approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing; ACEN-accredited programs
Programs Offered: Practical Nursing (PN), Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-RN)

Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus (ATU-Ozark) is widely considered the best nursing program accessible to Booneville residents. It offers:

• Practical Nursing certificate leading to LPN licensure
• Associate Degree (AAS) leading to RN eligibility
• Bridge pathways for LPN to RN advancement

Students benefit from small class sizes and hands-on clinical training at regional hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN exams.

Why it stands out:

• Strong regional employer connections
• High first-time NCLEX pass performance compared to many rural programs
• Affordable in-state tuition
• Designed for working and nontraditional students

2. Arkansas Tech University–Russellville

Location: Russellville, AR
Distance from Booneville: About 45 minutes
Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN-to-BSN

Students seeking a four-year baccalaureate degree often choose the Russellville campus. A BSN is increasingly preferred by hospitals, especially those pursuing or maintaining Magnet status.

The RN-to-BSN option is ideal for ADN graduates in Booneville who want to advance their credentials while continuing to work.

3. University of Arkansas–Fort Smith

Location: Fort Smith, AR
Distance from Booneville: Approximately 1 hour
Programs Offered: BSN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN

For students willing to commute slightly farther, UAFS provides a comprehensive nursing curriculum and expanded clinical partnerships. It is a strong option for those pursuing long-term advancement into leadership or advanced practice roles.

Side-by-Side Program Comparison

SchoolProgram TypesEstimated In-State Tuition (Per Year)Commute from BoonevilleBest ForATU–OzarkLPN, ADN (RN)Lower-cost community college rates25 minFast entry into workforceATU–RussellvilleBSN, RN-to-BSNModerate public university rates45 minBachelor’s degree seekersUAFSBSN, Bridge ProgramsModerate public university rates60 minLong-term career advancement

Choosing the Right Nursing Pathway

LPN Programs

Practical Nursing programs typically take 12 to 18 months. Graduates work in clinics, nursing homes, and long-term care settings. This is the fastest route into healthcare employment in Booneville.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An ADN takes about two years and qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX-RN. This option balances affordability, speed, and earning potential. Many Booneville nurses begin with an ADN before completing a BSN online.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A BSN requires four years but opens more doors in leadership, hospital systems, public health, and graduate programs. Some employers now show preference for BSN-prepared nurses, especially in urban Arkansas markets.

NCLEX Pass Rates and Licensure

When comparing schools, always check first-time NCLEX pass rates. Approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing confirms graduates are eligible for licensure.

You can verify program status directly through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing website. Look for:

• Full approval status
• No warning or probation designation
• Consistent pass-rate performance

Strong pass rates indicate solid curriculum alignment and student preparation.

Local Job Market for Nurses in Booneville and Logan County

Healthcare remains one of the most stable employment sectors in western Arkansas. Common employers for Booneville-area nurses include:

• Local community hospitals
• Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities
• Primary care and specialty clinics
• Home health agencies

Rural communities often experience ongoing nursing demand, particularly in geriatric and chronic care services. ADN and LPN graduates typically find employment quickly due to workforce shortages in smaller counties.

Nurses with a BSN may qualify for management roles or specialized units in larger nearby cities such as Fort Smith and Russellville.

Admission Requirements to Expect

While each school differs slightly, most Booneville-area programs require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA requirement
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology
• Passing score on entrance exams such as TEAS
• Background check and immunization records

Competitive programs admit a limited number of students each cohort. Applying early and maintaining strong prerequisite performance improves acceptance chances.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

Community college routes such as ATU–Ozark usually offer the most affordable tuition for Booneville residents. Students may qualify for:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Arkansas state aid programs
• Institutional nursing scholarships
• Employer tuition reimbursement

Some local healthcare facilities provide sponsorship or loan forgiveness agreements in exchange for work commitments after graduation. Ask prospective employers about partnership programs.

Online and Hybrid Nursing Options

Pre-licensure nursing programs require in-person clinical training. However, certain coursework may be delivered in hybrid format.

Registered Nurses who already hold an ADN can often complete RN-to-BSN programs largely online through Arkansas public universities. This flexibility allows Booneville nurses to advance their education without relocating.

How to Choose the Best Nursing School in Booneville

Use this checklist before enrolling:

• ✔ Is the program approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing?
• ✔ What are the most recent NCLEX pass rates?
• ✔ Are clinical rotations located within reasonable driving distance?
• ✔ What is the total cost including fees, books, and uniforms?
• ✔ Does the school offer LPN-to-RN or RN-to-BSN advancement?

The best nursing school for you depends on your timeline, budget, and long-term career goals. For most students in Booneville, Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus provides the strongest balance of affordability, accessibility, and employment outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools near Booneville, Arkansas

What is the closest nursing school to Booneville, Arkansas?

Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus is the closest major nursing option, about a 25-minute drive from Booneville. It offers Practical Nursing (LPN) and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-RN).

Which nursing degrees can you earn near Booneville?

Within commuting distance, you can earn a Practical Nursing certificate (LPN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN/AAS-RN), and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), plus RN-to-BSN bridge options.

Why is accreditation important for nursing programs in Arkansas?

Accreditation by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and national bodies like ACEN or CCNE helps ensure you can sit for the NCLEX exam, get licensed, and be competitive for jobs and future degrees.

What should you compare when choosing a nursing school near Booneville?

Focus on recent NCLEX pass rates, total tuition and fees, commute time, clinical site locations, and whether the school offers clear LPN-to-RN or RN-to-BSN pathways.

Are nursing jobs available around Booneville and Logan County?

Yes. Local hospitals, long-term care centers, clinics, and home health agencies in Logan County and nearby cities steadily hire LPNs and RNs, with ongoing need in rural and geriatric care.