Best Nursing Schools in Jonesboro, Arkansas (2026 Guide)
Choosing the right nursing school in Jonesboro, Arkansas can shape your entire healthcare career. Whether you are pursuing an LPN, RN, BSN, or advanced nursing degree, Jonesboro offers respected options with strong clinical partnerships and competitive licensure pass rates.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas State University (A-State) is the leading nursing institution in Jonesboro, offering BSN, MSN, DNP, and post-graduate certificates.
- NCLEX pass rates and accreditation status are critical factors when comparing programs.
- Clinical partnerships with St. Bernards Medical Center and NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital provide strong hands-on training.
- Students should compare tuition costs, admission selectivity, and student support services before applying.
- Jonesboro provides excellent job placement potential due to strong regional healthcare demand.
Overview of Nursing Education in Jonesboro, Arkansas
Jonesboro is one of Northeast Arkansas’ primary healthcare hubs. The city houses major medical facilities and serves surrounding rural communities, creating strong demand for registered nurses and advanced practice nurses.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurse employment continues to grow nationwide. In Arkansas, workforce shortages in rural regions increase hiring opportunities for new graduates. Nursing students in Jonesboro benefit from local hospital partnerships, clinical rotations, and steady employer demand.
Top Nursing Schools in Jonesboro, Arkansas
1. Arkansas State University School of Nursing
Location: Jonesboro, AR
Institution Type: Public University
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Approval: Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Arkansas State University is the primary provider of nursing education in Jonesboro and consistently ranks among the top nursing schools in Arkansas. Its School of Nursing offers comprehensive pathways for students entering at various levels.
Programs Offered
- Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Accelerated BSN
- RN to BSN (Online)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Post-Master’s Certificates
Why A-State Stands Out
- Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates that consistently meet or exceed state averages
- Modern simulation labs with high-fidelity mannequins
- Clinical placements at St. Bernards Medical Center and NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital
- Research and leadership opportunities for graduate students
Estimated Tuition: In-state undergraduate tuition is generally more affordable than many private institutions in Arkansas. Prospective students should verify current tuition on the university website.
Admissions: Competitive entry with GPA requirements, prerequisite coursework in sciences, and standardized testing depending on the pathway selected.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Nursing Programs in Jonesboro
SchoolDegree LevelsAccreditationClinical PartnersBest ForArkansas State UniversityBSN, MSN, DNPCCNESt. Bernards, NEA BaptistComprehensive pathway from bachelor's to doctorate
Currently, Arkansas State University is the only institution physically located in Jonesboro that offers pre-licensure and advanced nursing degrees at the university level. Students seeking LPN programs may explore nearby community colleges within commuting distance.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Student Outcomes
NCLEX-RN pass rates are one of the most important indicators of a nursing program’s effectiveness. Arkansas State University graduates regularly perform at or above the state average on the licensing examination.
Additional outcome indicators to review include:
- First-time NCLEX pass rates
- Program completion rates
- Job placement within six months of graduation
- Graduate school acceptance rates for BSN students
Due to Jonesboro’s role as a regional medical center, graduates often secure employment locally, particularly within hospital systems and community clinics.
Clinical Partnerships and Hands-On Training
High-quality clinical experience is essential for nursing competence. Arkansas State University maintains partnerships with:
- St. Bernards Medical Center
- NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital
- Regional outpatient and specialty clinics
- Public health organizations in Northeast Arkansas
These affiliations provide exposure to acute care, pediatrics, obstetrics, emergency medicine, and community health settings.
Cost and Financial Aid Options
Nursing students in Jonesboro can access multiple financial support options:
1. Federal and State Aid
- FAFSA-based grants and loans
- Arkansas Challenge Scholarship
- Arkansas Health Education Grants
2. Institutional Scholarships
- Merit-based academic awards
- Nursing-specific scholarships for clinical performance
- Graduate assistantships for MSN and DNP students
3. Employer Tuition Reimbursement
Local healthcare employers often provide reimbursement benefits, particularly for RN to BSN or advanced degree completion.
Prospective students should request a detailed cost estimate that includes tuition, books, uniforms, lab fees, and clinical travel expenses.
Admission Requirements
Admission standards vary by degree level but typically include:
For BSN Programs
- Minimum GPA, often 2.5 to 3.0 or higher
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics
- Background check and immunization verification
- Entrance exam if required
For Graduate Programs
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution
- Professional recommendations
- Personal statement and resume
Applicants are encouraged to apply early due to limited clinical placement slots.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Jonesboro
Nurses in Jonesboro can pursue diverse career pathways, including:
- Hospital-based RN roles
- Outpatient and specialty clinic nursing
- Public health nursing
- Nurse practitioner and advanced practice roles
- Nursing leadership and administration
Starting salaries for registered nurses in Arkansas are generally competitive within the region, with higher earning potential for BSN and advanced practice nurses.
The growing elderly population in Arkansas increases demand for skilled nursing professionals in acute and long-term care environments.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School in Jonesboro
Before enrolling, evaluate each program using these criteria:
- Accreditation: Ensure approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and CCNE accreditation.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: Review multi-year performance trends.
- Clinical Access: Confirm partnerships with reputable healthcare facilities.
- Support Services: Tutoring, simulation labs, and career advising.
- Flexibility: Online or hybrid options for working students.
Schedule a campus visit, speak with admissions advisors, and request performance data before committing.
Who Should Study Nursing in Jonesboro?
Jonesboro is ideal for:
- Students seeking an affordable public university education
- Graduates who want to serve rural and regional communities
- Nurses looking to advance from RN to BSN or graduate-level practice
- Students who value strong hospital-based clinical training
With its centralized healthcare network, experienced faculty, and comprehensive academic pathways, Jonesboro provides a focused and practical environment for nursing education.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Jonesboro, Arkansas
What nursing programs does Arkansas State University offer in Jonesboro?
Arkansas State University in Jonesboro offers a traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN (online), MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificates, all supported by CCNE accreditation and state board approval.
How important are NCLEX pass rates when choosing a nursing school in Jonesboro?
NCLEX pass rates are very important because they show how well a program prepares you for licensure. You should review several years of first-time NCLEX-RN results for Arkansas State University before you apply.
Where will you complete clinicals as a nursing student in Jonesboro?
You can expect clinical rotations at St. Bernards Medical Center, NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital, regional outpatient and specialty clinics, and public health sites across Northeast Arkansas.
What are the basic admission requirements for the BSN at Arkansas State University?
You generally need a minimum GPA (often 2.5–3.0), completed science prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, proof of vaccines and a background check, and an entrance exam if the program requires it.
How much does nursing school cost in Jonesboro and what aid can you get?
Arkansas State University’s in-state tuition is usually lower than many private schools, but you should confirm current rates. You may qualify for FAFSA-based grants and loans, Arkansas state scholarships, nursing scholarships, and employer tuition help.
What is the job outlook for nurses who graduate in Jonesboro?
You can expect steady demand for RNs and advanced practice nurses in Jonesboro due to its role as a regional medical hub and ongoing workforce needs in nearby rural communities.
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