Key Takeaways
- Danville, Arkansas does not have a nursing school within city limits, but several accredited programs are available within commuting distance.
- Arkansas Tech University and Arkansas Northeastern College are among the strongest nearby options based on accreditation, outcomes, and program flexibility.
- Prospective students should prioritize Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval, ACEN or CCNE accreditation, and recent NCLEX pass rates.
- LPN, ADN, BSN, and RN-to-BSN pathways are accessible near Danville, with hybrid and online options available for working adults.
- Local healthcare employers in Yell County and nearby River Valley communities offer solid demand for registered nurses.
Nursing Education Near Danville, Arkansas
Danville is a small community in Yell County, so nursing students typically commute to nearby colleges in Russellville, Clarksville, Morrilton, or other parts of the Arkansas River Valley. Fortunately, several accredited institutions within reasonable driving distance provide high-quality nursing programs.
When evaluating the best nursing schools near Danville, consider these factors:
- Approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing (ASBN)
- Accreditation from ACEN or CCNE
- NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Tuition and financial aid options
- Clinical partnerships with area hospitals
Top Nursing Schools Near Danville, Arkansas
Arkansas Tech University – Russellville
Distance from Danville: Approximately 30 miles
Programs Offered: LPN to RN, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN to BSN
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
Arkansas Tech University is widely recognized as one of the strongest nursing programs in the River Valley region. The university offers multiple pathways, making it ideal for both new students and working nurses seeking advancement.
Why It Stands Out:
- Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates consistently above state averages
- Established clinical partnerships with Saint Mary’s Regional Health System and other area facilities
- Flexible RN-to-BSN options for working nurses
Tuition is competitive for in-state students, and financial aid programs are readily available. For students in Danville seeking a traditional campus experience with strong outcomes, Arkansas Tech is often the top choice.
University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM)
Distance from Danville: Approximately 45 miles
Programs Offered: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), LPN
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited, ASBN approved
UACCM provides a cost-effective path to becoming a registered nurse. Its Associate Degree in Nursing program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter the workforce quickly.
Program Highlights:
- Affordable tuition compared with four-year institutions
- Smaller class sizes and supportive faculty
- Strong focus on hands-on clinical training
This program is ideal for students who want to start earning sooner and potentially pursue an RN-to-BSN program later.
University of the Ozarks – Clarksville
Distance from Danville: Approximately 35 miles
Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
University of the Ozarks offers a private college environment with personalized instruction. The BSN program emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, and community health.
Advantages:
- High faculty-to-student ratios
- Modern simulation labs
- Community-based clinical rotations
While tuition is higher than public institutions, some students prefer the smaller campus environment and individualized attention.
Other Arkansas Nursing Schools Within Regional Reach
Students in Danville may also explore institutions in Little Rock or Fort Smith if relocation is an option. These include the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. These institutions offer ADN, BSN, and advanced practice nursing programs.
Program Comparisons at a Glance
SchoolPrimary DegreeAccreditationApprox. DistanceBest ForArkansas Tech UniversityBSN, ADN, RN to BSNCCNE30 milesComprehensive pathwaysUACCMADNACEN45 milesAffordabilityUniversity of the OzarksBSNCCNE35 milesPrivate college experience
Nursing Career Outlook in Danville and Yell County
According to statewide workforce data, registered nurses in Arkansas earn a median annual salary that is competitive for rural communities. Healthcare systems in the River Valley region continue to report steady demand for licensed practical nurses and registered nurses.
Local employers include:
- St. Mary’s Regional Health System
- Chambers Memorial Hospital
- Local clinics and long-term care facilities in Yell County
Graduating from a nearby accredited program enhances employment prospects, especially when clinical rotations are completed in the same healthcare systems.
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
While requirements vary by institution, most nursing programs near Danville require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and English composition
- Minimum GPA requirement, often 2.5 to 3.0
- Entrance exam such as TEAS
- Background check and immunizations
Competitive programs may also consider volunteer work or healthcare experience during the selection process.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School Near Danville
1. Confirm State Approval
Always verify that the program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Without board approval, you cannot sit for the NCLEX-RN.
2. Compare NCLEX Pass Rates
Higher first-time pass rates signal strong academic preparation. Look for programs with pass rates consistently above the state average.
3. Evaluate Clinical Opportunities
Strong partnerships with regional hospitals ensure diverse, hands-on training experiences.
4. Assess Total Cost
Consider tuition, fees, commuting costs, and required materials. Public institutions often provide the best value for in-state residents.
5. Plan Long-Term
If you plan to earn a BSN eventually, check whether your chosen ADN program has articulation agreements with universities offering RN-to-BSN pathways.
Online and Hybrid Options for Working Students
Many RN-to-BSN programs near Danville are offered in hybrid or online formats. These options allow working nurses to complete coursework while maintaining employment. Clinical components for bridge programs are often completed locally.
For students balancing family or employment, these flexible formats can significantly reduce barriers to advancement.
Pathways to Becoming a Nurse in Danville, Arkansas
- LPN Route: Complete a practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN.
- ADN Route: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN.
- BSN Route: Complete a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
- Bridge Programs: LPN to RN or RN to BSN options for career advancement.
Each pathway offers unique benefits. For many Danville residents, beginning with an ADN at a nearby community college and later completing a BSN online offers the most practical and affordable route into the profession.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools near Danville, Arkansas
Are there any nursing schools in Danville, Arkansas?
No. Danville does not have a nursing school in town. You will need to commute to nearby cities such as Russellville, Morrilton, or Clarksville for accredited nursing programs.
What are the closest accredited nursing programs to Danville?
The closest accredited options include Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, and the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM). These schools offer LPN, ADN, BSN, and RN-to-BSN pathways within typical commuting distance.
How do you choose the best nursing school near Danville?
Start by checking Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval, ACEN or CCNE accreditation, and recent NCLEX pass rates. Then compare total costs, clinical sites, commute time, and whether the school offers the pathway you want, such as ADN, BSN, or bridge programs.
Can you complete nursing school while working in Danville?
Yes. Several nearby schools offer flexible RN-to-BSN and some theory courses in online or hybrid formats. You can usually complete clinical hours at hospitals and clinics in the River Valley region while keeping your job in or near Danville.
What is the fastest way to become a nurse near Danville?
The quickest route is usually an LPN or ADN program at a nearby community college such as UACCM, followed by the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN. Later, you can complete an online RN-to-BSN program if you want a bachelor’s degree.
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