Key Takeaways
- Clarendon, Arkansas does not have a nursing school within city limits, but several accredited programs are located within commuting distance.
- Top nearby options include Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and Arkansas State University.
- Students can pursue ADN, LPN-to-RN, BSN, and online RN-to-BSN pathways near Clarendon.
- Choosing an accredited program with strong NCLEX pass rates is essential for Arkansas licensure.
- Local clinical placements often include regional hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities in Monroe County and surrounding areas.
Your Guide to Nursing Programs Near Clarendon, Arkansas
If you are searching for the best nursing schools in Clarendon, Arkansas, the first thing to understand is that Clarendon is a small city in Monroe County without its own nursing college. However, several respected and accredited programs operate within a practical commuting radius.
This guide breaks down the top nursing schools near Clarendon, available degree paths, tuition considerations, NCLEX preparation, and how to choose the right program for your career goals.
Top Nursing Schools Near Clarendon, AR
1. Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA)
Locations: Helena-West Helena, Stuttgart, DeWitt
Distance from Clarendon: Approximately 40 to 60 miles depending on campus
PCCUA is one of the most accessible options for Clarendon residents. As part of the University of Arkansas system, it provides affordable and accredited nursing education focused on workforce readiness.
Programs Offered:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Practical Nursing (LPN)
- LPN-to-RN pathway
Why It Stands Out:
- Strong focus on hands-on clinical training
- Affordable in-state tuition
- Clinical partnerships with regional healthcare providers
This is often the top choice for students seeking an RN pathway while staying close to home.
2. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB)
Location: Pine Bluff, AR
Distance from Clarendon: Approximately 60 miles
UAPB offers a more traditional university experience and is ideal for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN
- RN-to-BSN (online options available)
Why It Stands Out:
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- Strong academic support services
- Competitive NCLEX pass performance
A BSN degree can open doors to leadership roles, hospital-based positions, and specialized practice areas.
3. Arkansas State University (ASU)
Location: Multiple campuses and online options
ASU is one of Arkansas’s most recognized public universities. While the main campus is farther from Clarendon, hybrid and online nursing programs make it accessible.
Programs Offered:
- BSN
- RN-to-BSN (fully online)
- MSN and advanced practice tracks
For RNs in Clarendon seeking career advancement, ASU’s online programs provide flexibility without relocating.
Program Comparison at a Glance
SchoolDegree OptionsEstimated DurationDelivery FormatBest ForPCCUALPN, ADN, LPN-to-RN12 to 24 monthsIn-personAffordable entry into RN practiceUAPBBSN, RN-to-BSN4 years (traditional)Campus and onlineStudents seeking bachelor’s degreeArkansas State UniversityBSN, MSN, Online RN-to-BSN1 to 4 yearsHybrid and onlineCareer advancement and flexibility
Accreditation and NCLEX Pass Rates
When evaluating nursing programs near Clarendon, always confirm accreditation. Look for:
- Approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Accreditation from ACEN or CCNE
Graduating from an accredited program qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN. NCLEX pass rates are a key indicator of program quality. Schools with consistent first-time pass rates above the state average demonstrate strong academic preparation and clinical training.
Admission Requirements for Clarendon-Area Programs
Although each school varies slightly, most nursing programs near Clarendon require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 to 3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and English Composition
- TEAS or similar entrance exam
- Background check and drug screening
Pro tip: Complete prerequisites early at a local community college to strengthen your application and reduce overall costs.
Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Estimated Costs
- Community colleges: Often $3,000 to $6,000 per year for in-state students
- Public universities: Approximately $8,000 to $12,000 per year
Costs exclude textbooks, uniforms, exam fees, and clinical supplies.
Financial Aid Opportunities
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Nursing-specific scholarships
- Employer tuition reimbursement from local healthcare facilities
Students in Monroe County should also explore workforce grants and rural healthcare incentives designed to strengthen the local nursing pipeline.
Clinical Training Near Clarendon
Clinical experience is a cornerstone of nursing education. Students living in Clarendon may complete rotations at:
- Regional hospitals in Helena-West Helena and Pine Bluff
- Local clinics and rural health centers
- Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities in Monroe County
These placements provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities with potential employers.
Nursing Career Outlook in Arkansas
Demand for registered nurses in Arkansas continues to grow, particularly in rural communities. Clarendon and surrounding counties face ongoing healthcare workforce shortages, increasing job stability for graduates.
A registered nurse in Arkansas typically earns a competitive salary adjusted for cost of living, with higher wages available in hospitals and specialized units. Nurses with BSN or advanced degrees have expanded opportunities in leadership, education, and advanced practice roles.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School Near Clarendon
Step 1: Define Your Goal
Do you want to enter the workforce quickly as an LPN? Become an RN through an ADN pathway? Or pursue a BSN for long-term advancement? Your answer determines the best-fit program.
Step 2: Compare Commuting Logistics
Driving 40 to 60 miles multiple days per week can affect scheduling and expenses. Evaluate campus location, clinical assignments, and online course availability.
Step 3: Verify Outcomes
Request data on graduation rates, NCLEX pass rates, and job placement statistics. Strong outcomes signal a well-supported program.
Step 4: Evaluate Support Services
Look for tutoring, simulation labs, mentorship programs, and career placement assistance.
Public vs Private Nursing Schools Near Clarendon
Most accessible programs near Clarendon are public institutions, which offer lower tuition for Arkansas residents. Private nursing schools may provide smaller class sizes but typically come with higher costs. For most Monroe County students, public community colleges and universities deliver the best return on investment.
Online Nursing Degrees for Clarendon Residents
If you are already a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse, online pathway programs allow you to earn a BSN or MSN without relocating.
Hybrid formats combine local clinical arrangements with online coursework, making them ideal for working professionals in Clarendon who need flexibility.
When selecting an online nursing program, ensure it is authorized to serve Arkansas students and meets Arkansas State Board of Nursing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Programs Near Clarendon, Arkansas
Does Clarendon, Arkansas have its own nursing school?
No. Clarendon does not have a nursing school in town. You will need to commute to nearby schools such as Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA), the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), or Arkansas State University.
What nursing degrees can you earn near Clarendon?
Near Clarendon, you can earn an LPN diploma, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), LPN-to-RN bridge, traditional BSN, and online RN-to-BSN. Some schools, like Arkansas State University, also offer online MSN and advanced practice options for licensed RNs.
How far are the closest nursing schools from Clarendon?
PCCUA campuses in Stuttgart, DeWitt, and Helena-West Helena are about 40 to 60 miles from Clarendon. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is about 60 miles away. Arkansas State University can often be reached online or in hybrid formats, which reduces commuting.
Which accreditation should you look for in Arkansas nursing programs?
You should choose a program approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and accredited by ACEN or CCNE. This helps you qualify for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN and supports licensure in Arkansas.
Where will you complete clinicals if you live in Clarendon?
You will typically complete clinicals at regional hospitals in places like Helena-West Helena and Pine Bluff, as well as clinics, rural health centers, and long-term care facilities in Monroe County and nearby areas.
How much does nursing school near Clarendon usually cost?
Community colleges near Clarendon often cost about $3,000 to $6,000 per year for in-state tuition. Public universities usually range from about $8,000 to $12,000 per year, not including books, fees, and supplies. You may qualify for grants, scholarships, and employer tuition help to lower costs.
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