Best Nursing Schools in Malvern, Arkansas

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Courses and Subjects

Key Takeaways

Malvern, Arkansas offers direct access to practical nursing (LPN) and associate degree (ADN) pathways, with additional BSN options available within commuting distance.
Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval and strong NCLEX pass rates are critical when choosing a program.
Students can complete LPN programs in as little as 12 months, ADN programs in 2 years, and BSN programs in 4 years or less with hybrid formats.
Local healthcare employers such as Baptist Health Hot Spring County and area long-term care facilities create strong job demand.
Total tuition ranges widely, from affordable community college rates to higher university-level tuition for BSN programs.

Why Study Nursing in Malvern, Arkansas?

Malvern is a small but strategically located city in Hot Spring County, offering access to practical and registered nursing programs within the community and throughout central Arkansas. With nearby healthcare employers, affordable living costs, and community-focused campuses, Malvern provides an excellent starting point for aspiring nurses.

According to state workforce data, Arkansas continues to experience steady demand for licensed practical nurses and registered nurses, particularly in rural and regional healthcare systems. Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, and long-term care facilities in and around Malvern regularly seek qualified graduates.

Top Nursing Schools in and Near Malvern, AR

The following programs stand out based on accreditation status, local accessibility, program options, affordability, and career outcomes.

School Location Programs Offered Approx. Length Accreditation Arkansas State University Three Rivers Malvern, AR LPN, RN (ADN) 1–2 Years ASBN Approved National Park College Hot Springs, AR ADN, LPN to RN 2 Years ASBN Approved University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock, AR BSN, RN to BSN 4 Years CCNE Accredited

1. Arkansas State University Three Rivers (ASU Three Rivers)

Located directly in Malvern, ASU Three Rivers is the primary local option for nursing education. The school offers:

Practical Nursing (LPN) program
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (RN)

The practical nursing program can typically be completed in about one year of full-time study. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. The RN program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and entry-level registered nursing roles.

As a community college, ASU Three Rivers provides affordable in-state tuition. The program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, an essential factor when evaluating any nursing school.

Best for: Students seeking affordable, local access to LPN or ADN training.

2. National Park College

About 25 minutes away in Hot Springs, National Park College offers strong ADN and LPN-to-RN bridge programs. Many Malvern residents choose this option due to its proximity and solid reputation.

The associate degree program typically takes two years, including prerequisite coursework. LPNs can complete an accelerated bridge pathway to become RNs.

Hybrid learning elements and modern simulation labs enhance clinical preparation. Clinical rotations are conducted in regional hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Best for: Students willing to commute for expanded program options and modern facilities.

3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR)

If your goal is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), UALR provides a high-quality option approximately one hour from Malvern.

BSN programs are increasingly preferred by hospitals and healthcare systems. UALR offers:

Traditional BSN pathway
RN to BSN completion program

The nursing program holds national accreditation and provides extensive clinical experiences in major healthcare systems. While tuition is higher than community colleges, the long-term salary and advancement potential often justify the investment.

Best for: Students pursuing leadership roles or advanced nursing education.

Accreditation and NCLEX Performance

When evaluating the best nursing schools in Malvern, Arkansas, always confirm:

Approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Accreditation from organizations such as CCNE or ACEN for degree programs
Recent NCLEX pass rates

High NCLEX pass rates signal strong academic preparation and effective clinical training. Most reputable Arkansas programs publicly report pass rates that meet or exceed national averages.

Admissions Requirements

While requirements vary slightly, most Malvern-area nursing programs require:

High school diploma or GED
Minimum GPA, often 2.5 or higher
Completion of prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology
Entrance exam such as TEAS
Background check and immunization records

Because space in nursing cohorts is limited, competitive GPA and test scores improve your acceptance chances.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Costs vary depending on program type:

LPN programs: Generally lower total tuition, often under community college rates.
ADN programs: Moderate two-year investment at in-state tuition rates.
BSN programs: Higher total cost but stronger long-term earning potential.

Students should explore federal financial aid, Arkansas state grants, workforce scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs available through local hospitals and clinics.

Career Outlook for Nurses in Malvern

Graduates from Malvern-area nursing schools can work in:

Baptist Health Medical Center-Hot Spring County
Local primary care and specialty clinics
Skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities
Public health and home healthcare agencies

Licensed practical nurses typically enter the workforce quickly in long-term care or outpatient settings. Registered nurses have access to hospital roles, higher salaries, and more advancement opportunities.

Experience and additional education such as a BSN significantly improve promotion potential and leadership opportunities.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Program

Use this checklist before enrolling:

Verify board approval and accreditation status.
Compare NCLEX pass rates over the last three years.
Evaluate total tuition and hidden costs such as uniforms and lab fees.
Ask about clinical placement sites.
Consider commute time and scheduling flexibility.

If your long-term goal includes becoming a nurse practitioner or clinical leader, choosing a school with seamless RN-to-BSN or advanced pathways can save time and money later.

Online and Hybrid Options for Malvern Students

While core nursing programs require in-person clinical training, some coursework may be offered online. RN-to-BSN programs in Arkansas frequently provide hybrid or fully online formats.

This flexibility allows working nurses in Malvern to continue their education without relocating. However, always verify that online programs maintain proper state approval for licensure eligibility.

Student Experience and Local Learning Environment

Community-based nursing programs in Malvern and surrounding areas often feature smaller class sizes and personalized faculty support. Students benefit from:

Direct access to instructors
Hands-on skills labs
Structured clinical rotations
Community partnerships with healthcare providers

Many graduates secure job offers through clinical placements, highlighting the importance of strong local healthcare relationships.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in and near Malvern, Arkansas

What nursing programs can you study in Malvern, Arkansas?

In Malvern, you can study Practical Nursing (LPN) and an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN/RN) at Arkansas State University Three Rivers. Within commuting distance, you can also access ADN, LPN-to-RN bridge, and BSN programs at nearby colleges and universities.

How long does it take to finish an LPN, ADN, or BSN program near Malvern?

You can usually finish an LPN program in about 12 months, an ADN program in around 2 years, and a BSN program in 4 years. Some BSN and RN-to-BSN options use hybrid or online formats that may shorten your time in the classroom.

Why is Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval and NCLEX pass rate important?

Arkansas State Board of Nursing approval is required for you to sit for the NCLEX and get a nursing license in the state. Strong NCLEX pass rates show that a program prepares students well for the exam and for entry-level nursing practice.

How much does nursing school cost in and around Malvern?

Tuition ranges from lower-cost community college LPN and ADN programs to higher university tuition for BSN degrees. You should also plan for books, uniforms, lab fees, and testing costs when comparing total program expenses.

What jobs can you get after finishing a nursing program near Malvern?

After graduation and licensure, you can work in local hospitals such as Baptist Health Medical Center–Hot Spring County, clinics, long-term care and rehab centers, home health, and public health agencies in Malvern and the surrounding region.

Are there online or hybrid nursing options for Malvern students?

Core nursing skills and clinicals are in person, but some nursing theory courses and many RN-to-BSN programs offer online or hybrid formats. You should confirm that any online program is approved in Arkansas so you remain eligible for licensure.

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