Key Takeaways
- North Arkansas College is the primary accredited nursing school located in Harrison, Arkansas, offering LPN and ADN pathways with strong NCLEX outcomes.
- Students can pursue RN, LPN, and RN-to-BSN options locally or through nearby and online partner institutions.
- Program costs in Harrison are significantly lower than Arkansas state university averages, especially for in-district students.
- Graduates benefit from local clinical partnerships with North Arkansas Regional Medical Center and area healthcare providers.
- Choosing the best nursing school depends on career goals, budget, timeline, and long-term education plans.
Why Study Nursing in Harrison, Arkansas?
Harrison offers a unique combination of affordable education, small class sizes, and strong healthcare employer connections. Located in Boone County, the city serves as a regional healthcare hub for north-central Arkansas. That means nursing students gain hands-on clinical experience in real-world settings without competing with large metropolitan cohorts.
Healthcare remains one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in Arkansas. According to state workforce data, registered nurses remain among the top in-demand occupations statewide, with steady projected growth through the next decade.
Top Nursing School in Harrison, AR
North Arkansas College (Northark)
Location: 1515 Pioneer Drive, Harrison, AR
Institution Type: Public community college
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission; Nursing programs approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
North Arkansas College is the leading and most recognized nursing education provider located directly in Harrison. It offers practical and career-focused pathways designed to meet regional healthcare workforce demands.
Available Nursing Programs
- Practical Nursing (LPN Certificate)
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN)
- LPN-to-RN Advanced Placement Option
The ADN program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination and become licensed Registered Nurses. The LPN program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
Program Highlights
- Competitive NCLEX pass rates that meet or exceed state standards
- Modern simulation labs for clinical training
- Clinical rotations at North Arkansas Regional Medical Center and local clinics
- Small class sizes with individualized faculty support
Estimated Tuition and Costs
Expense Category In-District (Per Year) Out-of-District (Per Year) Tuition & Fees $3,000 - $4,000 $4,500 - $6,000 Books & Supplies $1,200 - $1,800 $1,200 - $1,800 Total Estimated Cost $4,500 - $6,000 $6,000 - $8,000
Costs vary by program and semester load. Students should verify current tuition directly with the college.
Nursing Degree Pathways Near Harrison
While Northark serves as the primary local campus, students seeking advanced degrees such as a BSN or MSN often pursue transfer or online options.
RN-to-BSN Transfer Options
After earning an ADN at Northark and obtaining RN licensure, graduates can complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing through accredited Arkansas universities offering fully online RN-to-BSN programs. These typically take 12 to 18 months and allow nurses to continue working locally.
Common transfer partners include:
- University of Arkansas
- Arkansas State University
- Southern Arkansas University
Most programs require an active RN license and a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0.
Comparing Nursing Options in Harrison
School Programs Offered Duration Best For North Arkansas College LPN, ADN, LPN-to-RN 1 year (LPN), 2 years (ADN) Affordable local pathway to RN licensure Online RN-to-BSN (Various Universities) BSN Completion 12–18 months Working RNs advancing careers
Admissions Requirements
General Admission Steps
- Apply to North Arkansas College
- Submit high school or GED transcripts
- Complete prerequisite coursework
- Meet minimum GPA requirements
- Pass background checks and drug screening
Nursing programs are competitive. Completing prerequisite science courses such as Anatomy and Physiology with strong grades significantly improves acceptance chances.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Career Outcomes
One of the most important indicators of a nursing program’s quality is its NCLEX pass rate. Northark students consistently meet Arkansas State Board benchmarks for first-time pass rates.
Local Employment Opportunities
- North Arkansas Regional Medical Center
- Local primary care clinics
- Long-term care facilities
- Home health agencies
Entry-level Registered Nurses in Arkansas earn an average annual salary between $60,000 and $70,000, depending on experience and setting. Specialized nurses and BSN-prepared RNs may earn higher wages.
Online vs On-Campus Nursing Programs
On-Campus Advantages
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Face-to-face faculty mentorship
- Local clinical placements
Online Advantages
- Flexible scheduling for working nurses
- Faster BSN completion timelines
- No campus commute
For first-time nursing students, on-campus training remains essential due to clinical requirements. Online programs are primarily available for licensed RNs seeking degree advancement.
How to Become a Nurse in Harrison, Arkansas
Step 1: Choose Your Entry Path
Decide between LPN or RN. RNs typically have broader career options and higher earning potential.
Step 2: Complete an Approved Program
Enroll at North Arkansas College and complete either the Practical Nursing or ADN program.
Step 3: Pass the NCLEX Exam
Register through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and pass the appropriate licensure examination.
Step 4: Consider Advancement
After gaining experience, pursue an RN-to-BSN program online for career mobility and leadership opportunities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Nursing students in Harrison can access several funding options:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas Challenge Scholarship
- Workforce Challenge Scholarships
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
Students should complete the FAFSA early to maximize eligibility.
What Makes a Nursing School the “Best”?
The best nursing school in Harrison depends on individual priorities. Consider these criteria:
- Accreditation and state approval
- NCLEX pass rates
- Total program cost
- Clinical partnerships
- Graduation and job placement rates
- Pathways for advanced education
For students seeking affordability, strong local ties, and direct entry into the workforce, North Arkansas College stands out as the leading option in Harrison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Schools in Harrison, Arkansas
What nursing programs can you take at North Arkansas College in Harrison?
At North Arkansas College in Harrison, you can choose from Practical Nursing (LPN), an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN), and an LPN-to-RN advanced placement option that prepares you for RN licensure.
How much does it cost to study nursing in Harrison, Arkansas?
At North Arkansas College, most nursing students pay an estimated $4,500–$6,000 per year in-district, or $6,000–$8,000 per year out-of-district, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Actual costs depend on your course load and program.
Can you earn a BSN if you start with an ADN in Harrison?
Yes. You can complete your ADN at North Arkansas College, pass the NCLEX-RN, then transfer into an online RN-to-BSN program through universities such as the University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, or Southern Arkansas University.
What are the basic admission requirements for nursing programs in Harrison?
You typically need to apply to North Arkansas College, submit high school or GED transcripts, complete prerequisite courses, meet a minimum GPA, and pass required background checks and drug screening for clinical placement.
What jobs and salaries can you expect after nursing school in Harrison?
After passing the NCLEX, you can work as an LPN or RN at places like North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, clinics, long-term care centers, and home health agencies. Entry-level RNs in Arkansas often earn about $60,000 to $70,000 per year, based on experience and setting.
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