Key Takeaways
- Greenwood, Arkansas does not have a large university campus within city limits, but several accredited nursing schools are located within 10 to 90 minutes.
- The top options for Greenwood students include the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, Arkansas Tech University–Ozark, University of Arkansas, and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.
- NCLEX pass rates, tuition costs, clinical partnerships, and accreditation should guide your decision.
- Most programs offer LPN, ADN, BSN, and advanced pathways with hybrid or online components.
- Local hospitals such as Mercy Hospital Fort Smith provide strong clinical and employment pipelines.
Why Greenwood Students Have Strong Nursing Education Options
Greenwood is a growing community in Sebastian County, located just south of Fort Smith. While the city itself does not host a four-year university, it sits within commuting distance of several respected nursing programs. This regional accessibility gives aspiring nurses affordable pathways without relocating far from home.
Arkansas consistently faces nursing workforce shortages, particularly in rural and western regions. This demand benefits students graduating from nearby programs, often leading to competitive job placement rates and employer tuition support.
How to Evaluate the Best Nursing School Near Greenwood
1. Accreditation
Ensure the program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and accredited by ACEN or CCNE. This protects licensure eligibility and transfer credits.
2. NCLEX Pass Rates
First-time NCLEX-RN pass rates above 85 percent indicate strong academic preparation.
3. Clinical Partnerships
Look for programs that partner with Mercy Hospital Fort Smith, Baptist Health Fort Smith, and regional clinics. Quality clinical rotations improve hands-on readiness.
4. Cost and Financial Aid
In-state tuition in Arkansas remains lower than the national average. Many schools offer scholarships for rural health commitments.
5. Program Flexibility
Working adults should prioritize evening, hybrid, or online coursework options.
Best Nursing Schools Near Greenwood, Arkansas
SchoolDistance from GreenwoodTop ProgramsBest ForUniversity of Arkansas–Fort Smith15 minutesADN, BSN, LPN to RNAffordability & Local AccessArkansas Tech University–Ozark35 minutesADNCareer-Focused TrainingUniversity of Arkansas (Fayetteville)65–75 minutesTraditional & Accelerated BSNFour-Year University ExperienceUAMS (Little Rock)2 hoursBSN, MSN, DNPAdvanced & Specialized Nursing
University of Arkansas–Fort Smith (UAFS)
Location: Fort Smith, AR
Distance: Approximately 9 miles from Greenwood
UAFS is the most convenient and practical option for Greenwood residents. The Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing offers:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- LPN to RN pathways
The program is accredited and maintains competitive NCLEX-RN pass rates. Students complete clinical hours at Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and other regional facilities. Tuition for in-state students remains affordable, making this school the top choice for budget-conscious students.
Admission Highlights:
- Prerequisite GPA requirements
- TEAS entrance exam
- Background check and health screening
Ideal for: Students seeking strong local employer connections and minimal commute time.
Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus
Location: Ozark, AR
Distance: About 30 miles southeast of Greenwood
Arkansas Tech–Ozark offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing designed for direct workforce entry. Class sizes are typically smaller, allowing personalized instruction.
Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN and often work in regional hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Ideal for: Students wanting a focused, hands-on ADN program with strong instructor interaction.
University of Arkansas (Fayetteville)
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Distance: About 70 miles north
This flagship university offers both Traditional BSN and Accelerated BSN pathways. The accelerated option is attractive to students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
Benefits include:
- Research-based nursing education
- Access to diverse clinical placements
- High academic reputation
Ideal for: Students seeking a full university experience and broader campus resources.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
Location: Little Rock, AR
UAMS is Arkansas’s premier academic medical center and offers advanced degrees including MSN, DNP, and graduate certificates. While farther from Greenwood, many graduate-level courses include hybrid formats.
Ideal for: Nurses pursuing specialization or leadership roles.
Nursing Programs Available to Greenwood Students
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Typically completed in 12 months. Offered at technical schools and career centers near Fort Smith. A fast entry into the workforce.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Two-year degree preparing students for the NCLEX-RN. Often the most affordable path.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Four-year degree or accelerated 12–18 month option for second-degree students. Increasingly preferred by hospitals.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Beyond
For nurse practitioners, educators, and administrators. Often hybrid or online with local clinical placements.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Greenwood and Sebastian County
Registered nurses in Arkansas earn an average annual salary that ranges from $60,000 to $75,000 depending on specialization and experience. Rural health facilities frequently offer:
- Sign-on bonuses
- Loan repayment assistance
- Shift differentials
Major employers near Greenwood include:
- Mercy Hospital Fort Smith
- Baptist Health Fort Smith
- Regional outpatient clinics and long-term care centers
The aging population in western Arkansas is increasing demand for nurses in acute care, home health, and geriatric specialties.
Online and Hybrid Nursing Options
Many schools serving Greenwood students incorporate online coursework, especially for RN to BSN and graduate programs. Clinical hours must still be completed in approved healthcare settings, often near your residence.
Hybrid programs are ideal for:
- Working nurses upgrading credentials
- Parents balancing family responsibilities
- Rural students minimizing commuting time
Admission Tips to Increase Your Acceptance Chances
- Strengthen Your GPA: Science prerequisites such as Anatomy and Physiology weigh heavily.
- Prepare Thoroughly for TEAS: Competitive scores improve selection odds.
- Gain Healthcare Experience: CNA, EMT, or volunteer experience adds value.
- Apply Early: Many Arkansas programs use rolling admissions.
Financial Aid and Scholarships in Arkansas
Greenwood-area students may qualify for:
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Arkansas Rural Nursing Student Loan and Scholarship Program
- Federal Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid
- Hospital-sponsored tuition reimbursement
Commitment-based scholarships that require employment in underserved Arkansas communities can significantly reduce debt.
Choosing the Right Nursing School for You
For most Greenwood residents, the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith offers the strongest balance of affordability, accessibility, and employer connections. Students who prioritize university prestige or advanced specialization may benefit from programs in Fayetteville or Little Rock.
The best nursing school ultimately depends on your career goals, financial situation, and schedule flexibility. By comparing accreditation, clinical exposure, cost, and outcomes, you can confidently select a program that positions you for long-term success in Arkansas healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools near Greenwood, Arkansas
Does Greenwood, Arkansas have its own nursing school?
No. Greenwood does not have a large university nursing program in town, but you are within 10 to 90 minutes of several accredited options, including the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith and Arkansas Tech University–Ozark.
What is the closest accredited nursing program to Greenwood?
The closest option is the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, about 15 minutes away. It offers accredited ADN, BSN, and LPN to RN programs with clinicals at Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and other local sites.
Which nursing degrees can you earn near Greenwood?
You can earn LPN, ADN, and BSN degrees close to Greenwood, and pursue MSN and DNP programs through schools like UAMS in Little Rock, which often use hybrid or online formats with local clinical placements.
How should you choose the best nursing school near Greenwood?
Look for Arkansas Board of Nursing approval and ACEN or CCNE accreditation, NCLEX pass rates above about 85%, strong clinical partners like Mercy Hospital Fort Smith, in-state tuition or aid, and flexible schedules that fit your work and family needs.
What is the job outlook for nurses around Greenwood and Sebastian County?
Nursing demand in Arkansas is strong, especially in western and rural areas. Registered nurses in the state usually earn about $60,000 to $75,000 per year, and nearby employers often offer sign-on bonuses, loan help, and shift differentials to attract nurses.
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