Best Nursing Schools in Corning, Arkansas

Key Takeaways

• Corning, Arkansas does not host a large university nursing program, but several accredited options are located within driving distance.
• Black River Technical College (BRTC) is the closest and most practical choice for ADN and LPN pathways.
• Students can advance from LPN to RN to BSN through bridge and online programs across Arkansas.
• Choosing a school should involve reviewing NCLEX pass rates, Arkansas State Board approval, tuition, and commute time.
• Nursing demand in Northeast Arkansas remains strong, with competitive salaries and local hospital employment opportunities.

Nursing Schools Near Corning, Arkansas: Local and Regional Options

Corning is a small city in Clay County, so students typically attend nursing programs within a 30 to 90-minute radius. The advantage is access to affordable community colleges and respected public universities without relocating far from home.

Below is a comparison of the most relevant nursing schools serving students in the Corning area.

SchoolDistance from CorningPrograms OfferedApprox. In-District TuitionAccreditationBlack River Technical College (BRTC)In Corning & PocahontasLPN, ADNLow community college ratesArkansas State Board ApprovedArkansas State University (ASU Jonesboro)~70 milesBSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNPPublic university tuitionCCNE AccreditedThree Rivers College (MO)~45 milesADN, LPNRegional ratesACEN Accredited

Top Choice: Black River Technical College

Why BRTC Is Ideal for Corning Residents

Black River Technical College is the most convenient and community-focused nursing school for Corning students. With a campus located directly in Corning and its main campus in nearby Pocahontas, BRTC offers high accessibility, smaller class sizes, and strong regional employer partnerships.

Programs Offered

• Practical Nursing (LPN) Diploma
• Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN)

Graduates of the ADN program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, simulation lab training, and clinical rotations at healthcare facilities throughout Northeast Arkansas.

NCLEX and Outcomes

Prospective students should review the most recent NCLEX pass rates through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Historically, Arkansas community colleges maintain competitive pass rates, reflecting strong exam preparation aligned with state standards.

Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in biology and math
• Minimum GPA requirement
• ACT or placement exam scores
• Background check and health clearance

Because admission slots are limited, early application and strong grades in science prerequisites significantly improve acceptance chances.

Bachelor’s and Advanced Degrees Near Corning

Arkansas State University (Jonesboro)

For students seeking a BSN, MSN, or doctoral degree, Arkansas State University is the most comprehensive option within driving distance. ASU’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Degree pathways include:

• Traditional BSN
• Accelerated BSN
• RN to BSN (online friendly)
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice

Many RNs from BRTC later transfer to ASU to complete their BSN online while working locally.

Choosing the Right Nursing Pathway

LPN: Fast Entry into the Workforce

Licensed Practical Nurse programs typically take about 12 months. This pathway is ideal for students who want quicker entry into healthcare and may later bridge to an RN program.

ADN: Affordable RN Route

An Associate Degree in Nursing usually requires two years. It is the most cost-effective way to become a Registered Nurse and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

BSN: Long-Term Career Growth

Hospitals increasingly prefer BSN-prepared nurses. A bachelor’s degree opens doors to leadership roles, public health, and graduate school.

Online and Hybrid Nursing Options

While pre-licensure nursing programs always require in-person clinical training, many Arkansas schools offer hybrid learning formats. RN to BSN and graduate programs are frequently available online.

This flexibility benefits Corning students balancing work at local healthcare facilities while advancing their education.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Community College Affordability

Community colleges like BRTC offer some of the lowest tuition rates in Arkansas. Total program costs vary, but ADN pathways are significantly less expensive than four-year universities.

Financial Aid Resources

• FAFSA federal aid
• Arkansas Challenge Scholarship
• Institutional scholarships
• Workforce training grants
• Employer tuition reimbursement programs

Students planning to work locally after graduation may qualify for healthcare employer-sponsored scholarships.

Nursing Career Outlook in Corning and Northeast Arkansas

Local Healthcare Employers

• Arkansas Methodist Medical Center (Paragould)
• St. Bernards Healthcare (Jonesboro)
• Regional clinics and long-term care facilities
• Family practices in Clay County

The aging population in rural Arkansas continues to drive demand for RNs and LPNs. Registered Nurses in Arkansas earn competitive salaries relative to the state’s cost of living. Specialized roles and BSN-prepared nurses typically command higher pay.

Accreditation and Licensing Requirements

Before enrolling, verify that the nursing program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. National accreditation through ACEN or CCNE adds another layer of quality assurance.

After graduation, students must:

1. Apply to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
2. Pass the NCLEX examination
3. Complete background and licensing requirements

Choosing an accredited program ensures eligibility for licensure and employment.

What Makes a Nursing School “Best” for Corning Students?

The best nursing school is not simply the highest ranked statewide program. For students in Corning, the top choice balances:

• Proximity and commute time
• Affordable tuition
• Strong NCLEX pass rates
• Clinical partnerships in Northeast Arkansas
• Clear bridge pathways to BSN and beyond

For most local residents, Black River Technical College provides the strongest combination of cost, convenience, and job placement potential. Those pursuing advanced practice or leadership roles often continue their education at Arkansas State University.

How to Evaluate Programs Step by Step

1. Confirm Arkansas State Board approval.
2. Compare NCLEX pass rates from the past three years.
3. Calculate total program cost including books and clinical fees.
4. Visit the campus or attend an information session.
5. Talk with current students or local nurses about their experience.

With careful planning, students in Corning can progress from entry-level nursing education to advanced practice without leaving Northeast Arkansas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools Near Corning, Arkansas

What is the closest nursing school to Corning, Arkansas?

Black River Technical College (BRTC) is the closest option, with a campus in Corning and its main campus in Pocahontas. It offers Practical Nursing (LPN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs within an easy commute.

Which nursing programs can you start at BRTC?

At BRTC you can enroll in a Practical Nursing (LPN) diploma or an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN). The ADN prepares you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse.

How can you go from LPN to RN to BSN near Corning?

You can start with an LPN program at BRTC, then move into an ADN program to become an RN. After you are licensed, you can complete an online or hybrid RN-to-BSN program, such as those offered by Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, while you work.

How do you choose the right nursing school near Corning?

You should check Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval, compare NCLEX pass rates for the last few years, review total tuition and fees, and consider commute time. Visiting campuses and talking with local nurses can also help you decide.

Are there online nursing options if you live in Corning?

Pre-licensure programs still require in-person clinicals, but many RN-to-BSN and graduate nursing degrees are offered online or in hybrid formats. This lets you work in local hospitals or clinics while finishing advanced coursework from home.

Is nursing a good career choice in Northeast Arkansas?

Nursing demand in Northeast Arkansas is strong, especially in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. RNs and LPNs earn competitive wages for the region, and nurses with a BSN or specialty skills often qualify for higher-paying roles.