Key Takeaways
- Dardanelle does not have a standalone nursing school, but several highly reputable options are located within 15 to 75 miles.
- Arkansas Tech University in nearby Russellville is the closest and most accessible nursing program for Dardanelle residents.
- Top regional schools report strong NCLEX-RN pass rates, competitive tuition, and extensive clinical partnerships.
- Students can pursue LPN, ADN, BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP pathways within commuting distance.
- Healthcare demand in Yell County and surrounding areas continues to grow, creating stable job prospects for graduates.
Nursing Education Options Near Dardanelle, Arkansas
Dardanelle is a small city in Yell County, but students have access to several accredited nursing programs within a reasonable driving distance. Most local students commute to nearby Russellville, Clarksville, Conway, or Fort Smith.
Here is a practical comparison of the closest and most reputable nursing schools serving Dardanelle residents.
SchoolDistance from DardanellePrograms OfferedEstimated In-State TuitionRecent NCLEX Pass RateArkansas Tech University (Russellville)~5 milesLPN, ADN, BSN, RN-BSN, MSN$8,000 to $9,000 per yearAbove state averageUniversity of the Ozarks (Clarksville)~25 milesBSN$26,000+ per yearStrong outcomes reportedUniversity of Arkansas at Fort Smith~60 milesADN, BSN, MSN$7,500 to $8,500 per yearConsistently competitiveUniversity of Central Arkansas (Conway)~75 milesBSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNP$9,000 to $10,000 per yearHistorically high
Top Choice for Dardanelle Students: Arkansas Tech University
Why It Stands Out
Located just across the Arkansas River in Russellville, Arkansas Tech University is the most convenient and popular nursing school choice for Dardanelle residents. The School of Nursing offers multiple entry points and maintains accreditation aligned with Arkansas State Board of Nursing standards.
Program Options
- Practical Nursing Certificate
- Associate Degree in Nursing
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- RN to BSN online completion
- Master of Science in Nursing
Clinical Partnerships
Students complete clinical rotations at regional healthcare facilities such as Saint Mary’s Regional Health System in Russellville, River Valley Medical Center in Dardanelle, Baptist Health facilities, and other community clinics. This localized training strengthens employment prospects after graduation.
Admissions Requirements
- Completion of prerequisite science courses
- Competitive GPA, usually 2.75 or higher
- Entrance exam such as ATI TEAS
- Background check and immunizations
Accreditation and NCLEX Pass Rates
When selecting a nursing school near Dardanelle, accreditation is non-negotiable. Look for programs approved by:
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
NCLEX-RN pass rates are a critical indicator of program quality. Arkansas statewide first-time RN pass rates typically range from 85 percent to 92 percent in recent reporting years. Top-performing regional universities consistently meet or exceed this benchmark.
Program Pathways Available to Dardanelle Students
LPN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurse programs are the fastest route into nursing, usually completed in 12 to 18 months. Graduates can work in long-term care, clinics, and assisted living facilities while pursuing further education.
Associate Degree in Nursing
An ADN typically takes two years and prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN. Community-focused and cost-effective, this option is ideal for students seeking faster workforce entry.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The BSN is increasingly preferred by Arkansas hospitals. Many healthcare systems now show preference for BSN-prepared nurses, especially in magnet-designated facilities. Completion usually takes four years, though accelerated options exist.
Graduate Degrees
Students interested in advanced practice, nurse education, or leadership roles can pursue MSN or DNP programs within commuting distance or online while completing clinical hours locally.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Return on Investment
Arkansas maintains relatively affordable public university tuition compared to national averages. In-state students typically pay between $7,500 and $10,000 annually at public institutions, excluding fees and housing.
Financial aid options include:
- FAFSA-based federal grants and loans
- Arkansas Challenge Scholarship
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
- Hospital-sponsored tuition assistance
According to recent labor data, registered nurses in Arkansas earn median salaries ranging from $65,000 to $75,000 annually, with experienced nurses and nurse practitioners earning substantially more. Given the relatively low tuition, nursing programs near Dardanelle offer strong return on investment.
Local Job Outlook and Healthcare Employers
The River Valley region continues to experience healthcare workforce demand. Major local employers include:
- River Valley Medical Center in Dardanelle
- Saint Mary’s Regional Health System in Russellville
- Baptist Health facilities
- Area long-term care and rehabilitation centers
- Primary care and specialty clinics
National projections indicate steady nursing shortages through the decade, particularly in rural communities. Graduates willing to work in Yell County and surrounding rural areas often benefit from strong employment stability and potential hiring incentives.
Online and Hybrid Flexibility
Many Dardanelle students balance education with work or family obligations. Several nearby universities offer hybrid and online formats for:
- RN to BSN programs
- MSN degrees
- Select didactic coursework for pre-licensure programs
Clinical components must still be completed in person, but local partnerships help keep placements convenient.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School Near Dardanelle
1. Verify Pass Rates
Select programs with consistently strong first-time NCLEX pass rates.
2. Calculate Total Costs
Consider commuting expenses, textbooks, lab fees, and lost income while studying.
3. Visit Campus
Proximity matters. Arkansas Tech’s five-mile distance often makes it the most practical choice for daily commuters.
4. Review Clinical Placement Networks
Strong hospital and clinic relationships increase hands-on experience and job placement opportunities.
5. Consider Long-Term Goals
If you plan to pursue advanced practice nursing, confirm whether the institution offers seamless graduate progression.
Arkansas Nursing Licensure Process
After completing an approved program, graduates must:
- Submit an application to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- Complete a criminal background check
- Pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN
- Meet continuing education requirements for renewal
Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing eligible nurses to practice in multiple participating states with one license.
Why Dardanelle Is a Strategic Place to Start Your Nursing Career
Dardanelle provides the advantages of small-town affordability while maintaining immediate access to respected nursing schools and clinical sites in the River Valley region. Students benefit from lower living costs, close-knit community support, and strong hiring demand for healthcare professionals.
Whether you begin with an LPN program or pursue a BSN leading to advanced practice, the nursing schools serving Dardanelle, Arkansas combine accessibility, accreditation, and measurable workforce outcomes that position graduates for long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools Near Dardanelle, Arkansas
Does Dardanelle have its own nursing school?
No. Dardanelle does not have a standalone nursing school. Most students commute to nearby programs in Russellville, Clarksville, Conway, or Fort Smith, with Arkansas Tech University in Russellville being the closest option.
What is the closest nursing program to Dardanelle?
Arkansas Tech University in Russellville is about 5 miles from Dardanelle and is the closest major nursing program. It offers LPN, ADN, BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN pathways that many local students choose.
What nursing degrees can you earn near Dardanelle?
Within about 75 miles of Dardanelle, you can earn an LPN certificate, ADN, BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and even a DNP. These options are offered across schools in Russellville, Clarksville, Fort Smith, and Conway.
Are nursing programs near Dardanelle accredited and do they have good NCLEX pass rates?
Yes. Leading programs near Dardanelle hold approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and regional or national accreditors such as ACEN or CCNE. Their recent NCLEX-RN pass rates are typically at or above the Arkansas average, which is often in the mid‑80 to low‑90 percent range for first-time test takers.
How much does nursing school cost near Dardanelle?
Public universities near Dardanelle usually charge about $7,500 to $10,000 per year in in-state tuition for nursing, not including fees, books, and housing. A nearby private option, such as University of the Ozarks, costs more, with tuition over $26,000 per year.
What is the job outlook for nurses in and around Dardanelle?
Healthcare demand is strong in Yell County and the River Valley region. Local employers such as River Valley Medical Center, Saint Mary’s Regional Health System, Baptist Health, and area clinics regularly seek nurses, and rural communities often offer stable roles and long-term career growth.
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