Best Nursing Schools in Lincoln, Arkansas

Why Nursing School in Lincoln, Arkansas Is a Smart Career Move

Lincoln, Arkansas is a small but growing community in Washington County, located near the thriving healthcare corridor of Northwest Arkansas. While Lincoln itself does not host a large university campus, students benefit from proximity to respected nursing programs in Fayetteville, Springdale, Fort Smith, and other nearby cities.

Key Takeaways

• Lincoln-area students have access to accredited ADN, BSN, LPN, and graduate nursing programs within a short commute.
• Top regional programs boast strong NCLEX pass rates and Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval.
• Healthcare demand in Northwest Arkansas continues to grow, increasing RN job opportunities.
• Affordable community college pathways make nursing accessible for first-time students and career changers.
• Clear licensure steps through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing ensure graduates can practice statewide.

Top Nursing Schools Near Lincoln, Arkansas

Below are the best accredited nursing schools within commuting distance of Lincoln, selected based on accreditation, reputation, program variety, and proximity.

1. University of Arkansas – Fayetteville

Distance from Lincoln: Approximately 25 minutes

Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP

Accreditation: CCNE accredited and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing

The University of Arkansas Eleanor Mann School of Nursing is one of the most respected programs in the state. Its traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines classroom instruction, lab simulation, and clinical placements across Northwest Arkansas healthcare systems.

• High first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates
• Access to advanced simulation labs
• Strong partnerships with regional hospitals
• Pathways to graduate study for nurse practitioners and leaders

This program is ideal for students seeking a four-year degree with access to cutting-edge facilities and research opportunities.

2. Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) – Springdale

Distance from Lincoln: Approximately 35 minutes

Programs Offered: ADN, Practical Nursing (PN), Paramedic to RN

Accreditation: ACEN accredited

NWACC offers one of the most affordable nursing pathways in the region. The Associate Degree in Nursing prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter practice quickly.

Why students choose NWACC:

• Lower tuition compared to universities
• Strong NCLEX pass performance
• Flexible scheduling options
• Smooth RN to BSN transfer pathways

This is a strong option for Lincoln residents seeking cost-effective entry into nursing within two years.

3. University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

Distance from Lincoln: About 1 hour

Programs Offered: LPN, ADN, BSN

Accreditation: ACEN accredited

The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith provides multiple entry points into nursing, including practical nursing and traditional four-year BSN tracks. Its clinical experiences span acute care hospitals and community health settings.

This school is particularly attractive to students who want structured clinical training and smaller cohorts.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Nursing Programs Near Lincoln

School Degree Options Accreditation Estimated Commute Best For University of Arkansas BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP CCNE 25 minutes Full university experience and advanced degrees NWACC ADN, PN ACEN 35 minutes Affordable and fast RN pathway UAFS LPN, ADN, BSN ACEN 1 hour Flexible entry levels in nursing

Types of Nursing Degrees Available to Lincoln Students

Practical Nursing (LPN)

Typically a 12 to 18 month program. Graduates work under RNs and physicians in clinics, long-term care facilities, and hospitals.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

A two-year program preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN. Many Lincoln-area students choose this route for its affordability and speed.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A four-year degree that qualifies nurses for leadership roles and graduate study. Many Arkansas hospitals prefer or require BSN-educated nurses.

MSN and Advanced Practice Degrees

For those pursuing nurse practitioner, educator, or executive roles. The University of Arkansas leads in graduate nursing education in the region.

Admission Requirements for Arkansas Nursing Programs

Although requirements vary, most programs near Lincoln require:

• Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and composition
• Minimum GPA, often 2.75 to 3.0
• Entrance exam such as TEAS
• Background check and immunizations
• CPR certification

Competitive programs like the University of Arkansas may also consider interviews, volunteer hours, and healthcare experience.

Cost of Nursing School Near Lincoln

Tuition varies depending on degree type and residency status.

• Community College ADN: Typically the most affordable pathway
• Public University BSN: Higher total tuition but strong long-term career prospects
• Online RN to BSN: Often cost-effective for working nurses

Students should complete the FAFSA and explore Arkansas-specific scholarships, including state workforce grants and hospital-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs.

NCLEX and Licensure in Arkansas

After graduation, nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN to obtain licensure. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing oversees licensing and ensures program approval.

Steps include:

1. Graduate from an approved nursing program
2. Apply for licensure through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
3. Register for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE
4. Pass the exam and receive licensure

Graduates from accredited schools near Lincoln consistently perform well on licensure exams.

Local Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

Northwest Arkansas continues to experience healthcare growth due to population expansion and employer demand.

Major healthcare employers near Lincoln include:

• Washington Regional Medical Center
• Mercy Northwest Arkansas
• Northwest Health System
• Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks

Registered nurses in Arkansas earn competitive salaries relative to cost of living, with higher wages often offered in hospital systems and specialty units. BSN-prepared nurses tend to earn more and have greater advancement opportunities.

How to Choose the Best Nursing School Near Lincoln

When comparing options, consider:

• Accreditation status
• NCLEX pass rates
• Commute time and clinical placement locations
• Total tuition and financial aid availability
• Program flexibility if you plan to work while studying

Lincoln students should also visit campuses, speak with admissions advisors, and review clinical partnerships before committing.

Online Nursing Options for Lincoln Residents

Working adults in Lincoln may benefit from online or hybrid programs. While clinical hours must be completed in person, many Arkansas schools offer online coursework for RN to BSN or graduate degrees.

This format allows students to maintain employment while advancing their credentials.

Student Success and Clinical Experience in Northwest Arkansas

One advantage of attending nursing school near Lincoln is access to diverse clinical settings. Students gain experience in:

• Acute care hospitals
• Rural health clinics
• Long-term care facilities
• Community health organizations

These placements not only fulfill graduation requirements but often lead directly to job offers.

Lincoln, Arkansas offers aspiring nurses access to high-quality, accredited programs within a short commute. Whether pursuing a fast ADN pathway or a comprehensive BSN and beyond, students in the area can build strong, sustainable nursing careers supported by a growing regional healthcare market.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing School Near Lincoln, Arkansas

What nursing programs can you access near Lincoln, Arkansas?

You can reach accredited LPN, ADN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP programs within a short drive, mainly in Fayetteville, Springdale, and Fort Smith. These schools are approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and prepare you for the NCLEX exam.

Is nursing school near Lincoln affordable?

Yes. Community colleges such as NWACC offer lower tuition ADN and PN programs, and public universities provide in‑state BSN options. You can also use FAFSA, Arkansas scholarships, and some employer tuition help to lower your costs.

How long does it take to become a nurse near Lincoln?

If you choose practical nursing, you can usually finish in 12 to 18 months. An ADN program takes about two years, and a traditional BSN program takes about four years. RN to BSN and graduate programs vary based on your previous education and whether you study full time or part time.

What are the basic admission requirements for nearby nursing schools?

Most programs ask for prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, a minimum GPA around 2.75–3.0, a TEAS or similar entrance test, a background check, immunizations, and current CPR certification. Some BSN programs may also look at healthcare experience and interviews.

What is the job outlook for nurses in Northwest Arkansas?

Healthcare employers in Northwest Arkansas, including Washington Regional, Mercy, Northwest Health, and the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks, continue to hire nurses as the region grows. Registered nurses earn competitive pay for the local cost of living, and BSN‑prepared nurses often see more options for advancement.