Best Nursing Schools in Conway, Arkansas (2026 Guide)
Choosing the right nursing school is one of the most important decisions in your healthcare career. Conway, Arkansas offers reputable, accredited nursing programs with strong NCLEX pass rates, affordable tuition, and hands-on clinical training. Whether you’re pursuing an LPN, RN, BSN, or advanced nursing degree, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of the top nursing schools in Conway, plus insider insights on costs, admissions, and career outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Top Schools: University of Central Arkansas and Central Baptist College lead Conway’s nursing education landscape.
- Accreditation Matters: All featured programs hold regional and nursing-specific accreditation.
- High NCLEX Pass Rates: Programs consistently meet or exceed Arkansas state averages.
- Affordable Tuition: In-state options are significantly lower than national averages.
- Strong Clinical Partnerships: Students gain real-world experience in major Arkansas healthcare systems.
1. University of Central Arkansas (UCA) – School of Nursing
Overview
The University of Central Arkansas is widely regarded as the top nursing school in Conway. Known for academic rigor and high licensure pass rates, UCA prepares students for leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Traditional BSN)
- RN to BSN (Online)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Accreditation
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
NCLEX Pass Rates
UCA consistently reports NCLEX-RN pass rates at or above the Arkansas state average, typically ranging between 88 percent and 95 percent in recent years.
Tuition & Financial Aid
In-state undergraduate tuition averages approximately $9,000 to $10,000 per year, excluding fees and housing. UCA offers:
- Academic merit scholarships
- Nursing-specific grants
- Federal and state financial aid
- Loan forgiveness guidance for healthcare professionals
Clinical Experience & Career Support
Students complete clinical rotations at major healthcare facilities such as Baptist Health Medical Center and Conway Regional Health System. UCA also provides:
- Dedicated nursing academic advisors
- Simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins
- Career placement assistance
Student Perspective
One recent graduate shared, “The simulation labs felt like real hospital environments. I entered my first job confident and prepared.”
2. Central Baptist College (CBC) – Department of Nursing
Overview
Central Baptist College offers a faith-based nursing education with small class sizes and personalized instruction. Its supportive learning environment makes it an excellent choice for students seeking mentorship and community.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- LPN to BSN pathway
Accreditation
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
- Nursing program approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
NCLEX Performance
CBC nursing graduates typically achieve competitive pass rates, often aligning closely with statewide averages.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Private tuition rates average approximately $18,000 to $20,000 per year before aid. However, CBC offers:
- Institutional scholarships
- Church-affiliation grants
- Flexible payment plans
Clinical Training & Student Experience
Students receive individualized faculty attention and hands-on clinical training throughout central Arkansas. Smaller cohorts contribute to higher faculty engagement and mentorship availability.
Comparing the Best Nursing Schools in Conway
SchoolDegree LevelsAccreditationAvg. Tuition (In-State)NCLEX Pass RateClinical PartnershipsUniversity of Central ArkansasBSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNPCCNE$9,000 to $10,00088 to 95%Major regional hospitalsCentral Baptist CollegeBSN, LPN-BSNState Approved$18,000 to $20,000Competitive with state avgLocal healthcare facilities
Admission Requirements for Conway Nursing Programs
While requirements vary slightly, most nursing schools in Conway expect:
- Minimum GPA of 2.75 to 3.0
- Completion of prerequisite science courses
- TEAS exam scores
- Background check and health screenings
- Personal statement or interview
Competitive applicants typically exceed minimum GPA and standardized testing benchmarks.
Cost of Nursing School in Conway, Arkansas
Compared to national averages, Conway nursing programs are affordable, especially for Arkansas residents.
- Public BSN Average (In-State): $9,000 to $10,000 per year
- Private BSN Average: $18,000 to $20,000 per year
- Average Financial Aid Award: Varies widely; many students offset 30 to 60 percent of tuition through grants and scholarships
Students should also budget for uniforms, textbooks, lab fees, and exam preparation materials.
Career Outlook for Conway Nursing Graduates
Nursing continues to be one of the fastest-growing professions in Arkansas. According to labor market data:
- Registered Nurses in Arkansas earn an average salary of $65,000 to $75,000 annually
- Job growth is projected to remain steady due to aging populations and rural healthcare demands
- Specializations such as family nurse practitioner and nurse educator command higher salaries
Graduates from top Conway nursing schools benefit from strong local networks, making job placement within central Arkansas highly attainable.
What Sets the Best Nursing Schools Apart
High-Fidelity Simulation Labs
Advanced simulation environments allow students to practice critical care, emergency response, and patient communication in a controlled setting before entering clinical rotations.
Dedicated Clinical Coordinators
Quality programs actively secure diverse clinical placements, exposing students to urban and rural healthcare settings.
Strong Faculty Mentorship
Low student-to-faculty ratios enhance academic success and NCLEX performance.
Comprehensive Career Support
Top programs offer resume workshops, mock interviews, and employer networking events specifically for nursing students.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School in Conway
When comparing options, prioritize:
- Accreditation status to ensure eligibility for licensure and federal aid
- NCLEX-RN pass rates as a measure of program effectiveness
- Total program cost including fees and living expenses
- Clinical placement quality and hospital partnerships
- Support services such as tutoring and academic advising
Visiting campuses, attending information sessions, and speaking directly with current students can provide critical insight before making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Conway, Arkansas
What types of nursing degrees can you earn in Conway, Arkansas?
In Conway, you can earn an LPN-to-BSN, a traditional BSN, an RN-to-BSN, an MSN, and a DNP, depending on the school you choose. UCA offers BSN through DNP options, while CBC focuses on BSN and LPN-to-BSN pathways.
Is nursing school in Conway, Arkansas affordable?
Yes. Public in-state BSN programs in Conway, such as UCA, average about $9,000 to $10,000 per year in tuition. Private options like CBC average about $18,000 to $20,000 per year before scholarships and grants.
Do Conway nursing programs have strong NCLEX pass rates?
Conway nursing programs report NCLEX-RN pass rates that usually meet or exceed Arkansas state averages. UCA often reports pass rates between 88% and 95%, while CBC’s results are typically competitive with statewide performance.
What are the basic admission requirements for Conway nursing schools?
Most programs expect a minimum GPA of about 2.75 to 3.0, completed science prerequisites, TEAS exam scores, a background check, health screenings, and sometimes a personal statement or interview. Strong applicants usually exceed the minimum GPA and test scores.
Where do Conway nursing students complete clinicals?
You complete clinical rotations at central Arkansas healthcare facilities, including Baptist Health Medical Center, Conway Regional Health System, and other local hospitals and clinics that partner with the schools.
What is the job outlook for nursing graduates in Conway and Arkansas?
Job growth for nurses in Arkansas is steady, supported by an aging population and rural care needs. Registered nurses in Arkansas typically earn about $65,000 to $75,000 per year, and advanced roles like nurse practitioners often earn more.
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