Key Takeaways
- There are no major nursing colleges directly inside Gosnell, AR, but several accredited programs are located within a short driving distance.
- Arkansas State University and Arkansas Northeastern College are the closest and most practical options for Gosnell residents.
- Top programs offer ADN, BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN pathways with strong NCLEX-RN pass rates.
- Clinical partnerships with local healthcare facilities in Mississippi County improve job placement outcomes.
- Tuition in northeast Arkansas is significantly lower than national averages, especially for in-state students.
Why Study Nursing Near Gosnell, Arkansas?
Gosnell is located in Mississippi County in northeast Arkansas, just outside Blytheville. While Gosnell itself does not host a nursing school campus, students benefit from proximity to accredited programs within 10 to 70 miles.
Northeast Arkansas continues to face nursing workforce shortages, particularly in rural healthcare settings. According to labor data projections, demand for registered nurses in Arkansas is expected to grow steadily through 2030. Local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities actively recruit graduates from nearby institutions, creating strong employment opportunities for students who train in the region.
Best Accredited Nursing Schools Near Gosnell, AR
1. Arkansas Northeastern College (ANC) – Blytheville, AR
Distance from Gosnell: Approximately 10 minutes
Degree Offered: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Program Length: 2 years
Accreditation: Arkansas State Board of Nursing approved
Arkansas Northeastern College is the closest nursing program to Gosnell. Its ADN program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN and entry-level registered nursing positions. The college maintains clinical partnerships with regional healthcare providers, allowing students to train locally.
Why ANC stands out:
- Convenient for Gosnell residents
- Affordable in-district tuition
- Strong hands-on clinical focus
- Small class sizes for individualized instruction
The program is competitive, requiring prerequisite science courses and satisfactory ATI or entrance testing scores.
2. Arkansas State University (A-State) – Jonesboro, AR
Distance from Gosnell: Approximately 65 miles (about 1 hour)
Degrees Offered: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
Arkansas State University offers one of the most comprehensive nursing programs in northeast Arkansas. Students seeking a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing will find A-State particularly appealing. The university also provides graduate and doctoral pathways for long-term career advancement.
Program highlights:
- High first-time NCLEX pass rates
- Simulation labs with advanced technology
- Online RN-to-BSN options
- Extensive clinical network across Arkansas
This is an excellent option for Gosnell students willing to commute or relocate for a broader academic experience.
3. Dyersburg State Community College – Dyersburg, TN
Distance from Gosnell: Approximately 45 miles
Degree Offered: Associate Degree in Nursing
Although located across the Tennessee state line, Dyersburg State serves many northeast Arkansas residents. Graduates must meet licensure requirements for Arkansas if they intend to practice in-state. This option may appeal to students comparing tuition rates or availability.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Top Options
SchoolDistance from GosnellDegreeProgram LengthBest ForArkansas Northeastern College10 minutesADN2 YearsAffordable, local accessArkansas State University65 milesBSN, MSN, DNP4+ YearsAdvanced degrees and career growthDyersburg State CC45 milesADN2 YearsAlternative regional option
Program Types Available to Gosnell Students
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN is the fastest pathway to becoming a registered nurse. Programs typically take two years and focus heavily on clinical skills. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A BSN is increasingly preferred by hospitals. It opens doors to leadership roles and graduate study. Students may enter directly or complete an RN-to-BSN bridge program.
Online and Hybrid Pathways
Several Arkansas institutions offer RN-to-BSN programs online. Hybrid formats combine online coursework with in-person clinical training, making them suitable for working nurses in Gosnell.
Clinical Training Opportunities Near Gosnell
Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of every nursing program. Students near Gosnell often train at facilities such as:
- Great River Medical Center in Blytheville
- Collaborative regional clinics in Mississippi County
- Long-term care and rehabilitation centers
Training locally increases familiarity with area employers and often leads to job offers after graduation.
Admissions Requirements
While requirements vary by school, most nursing programs near Gosnell require:
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and English Composition
- Minimum GPA, often 2.5 to 3.0
- Entrance exam scores such as TEAS
- Background check and drug screening
- Proof of immunizations and CPR certification
Because seats are limited, early preparation improves admission chances.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Arkansas offers relatively affordable public education. In-district community college tuition is significantly lower than national averages. Financial assistance options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Nursing-specific workforce grants
- Employer tuition reimbursement from local healthcare providers
Students planning to work in underserved communities may qualify for loan assistance or forgiveness programs.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Career Outlook
NCLEX pass rates are one of the most important indicators of program quality. Arkansas nursing schools report competitive first-time pass rates that often meet or exceed national standards.
After licensure, graduates in northeast Arkansas can pursue roles in:
- Acute care hospitals
- Rural health clinics
- Long-term care facilities
- Home health services
The median annual salary for registered nurses in Arkansas is lower than the national average, but cost of living in the Gosnell area is also substantially lower, improving overall affordability and financial stability.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School Near You
When selecting a nursing program near Gosnell, consider:
- Accreditation and state board approval
- NCLEX success rates
- Commute time and transportation costs
- Total program cost after financial aid
- Availability of bridge programs for career advancement
Students who want immediate workforce entry often choose ANC’s ADN program. Those aiming for leadership or advanced practice roles may benefit from enrolling at Arkansas State University.
Local Job Market for Nurses in Gosnell and Mississippi County
Healthcare employers in northeast Arkansas consistently seek qualified nursing professionals. Rural counties often experience higher demand, leading to steady hiring cycles. Employers value graduates who completed clinical hours locally because they require less onboarding and understand community health needs.
Networking during clinical rotations significantly increases post-graduation employment chances. Many students receive conditional job offers before completing their NCLEX.
Choosing the best nursing school near Gosnell ultimately depends on your career goals, budget, and timeline. By selecting an accredited program with strong clinical partnerships and proven licensure outcomes, you position yourself for long-term success in Arkansas’s growing healthcare field.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools Near Gosnell, Arkansas
Are there any nursing schools in Gosnell, AR itself?
No, there are no nursing colleges inside Gosnell. Your closest options are Arkansas Northeastern College in Blytheville and Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, both within commuting distance.
What is the quickest way to become an RN near Gosnell?
The fastest route is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), such as the 2‑year program at Arkansas Northeastern College or Dyersburg State Community College, followed by passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Which nearby schools offer a BSN or higher nursing degrees?
Arkansas State University in Jonesboro offers BSN, RN‑to‑BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, giving you options for both entry-level and advanced nursing careers.
Can you study nursing online if you live in Gosnell?
You can complete many RN‑to‑BSN courses online through Arkansas State University and other schools, but you still need in‑person clinical hours, usually done at local hospitals and clinics.
How much does nursing school near Gosnell usually cost?
Public tuition in northeast Arkansas is generally lower than the national average, especially at in‑district community colleges like Arkansas Northeastern College. You can also apply for Pell Grants, Arkansas scholarships, and nursing workforce aid to reduce costs.
What jobs can you get after nursing school in the Gosnell area?
After you pass the NCLEX-RN, you can work in local hospitals, rural health clinics, long-term care centers, and home health agencies in Mississippi County and surrounding areas.
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