Key Takeaways
- The University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology–McGehee (UAM-CTM) is the primary accredited nursing provider in McGehee, Arkansas.
- Students can pursue Practical Nursing (LPN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) pathways within a commuter-friendly radius.
- UAM-CTM nursing programs maintain strong NCLEX pass rates and local clinical partnerships.
- Affordable tuition, small class sizes, and workforce demand in Southeast Arkansas make McGehee a strategic location for nursing education.
- Several additional accredited programs within 50 miles provide expanded RN and BSN options.
Overview of Nursing Education in McGehee, Arkansas
McGehee, Arkansas, serves as an important healthcare and workforce training hub in Desha County and the surrounding Southeast Arkansas region. While the city itself hosts one primary nursing institution, nearby colleges within a 50 mile radius expand degree options for aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses.
The area’s healthcare system includes regional hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community clinics that actively partner with nursing schools for clinical training. According to state workforce projections, demand for LPNs and RNs in Arkansas continues to grow due to an aging population and rural healthcare staffing shortages.
University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology–McGehee
Why UAM-CTM Is the Leading Choice
The University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology–McGehee is the only nursing school physically located in McGehee. It has earned recognition statewide for excellence in Practical Nursing education and strong licensure pass rates. For students seeking affordable, community-based training with direct workforce alignment, UAM-CTM stands as the most accessible option.
Nursing Programs Offered
- Practical Nursing (LPN Certificate): Prepares students for the NCLEX-PN and entry-level nursing roles.
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (through UAM system pathways): Provides a bridge to RN licensure.
The LPN program typically takes about 12 months to complete, including classroom instruction, laboratory simulation, and supervised clinical rotations.
Clinical Training Partnerships
Students complete hands-on training at regional healthcare providers, including:
- Local hospitals in Southeast Arkansas
- Long-term care and rehabilitation centers
- Community health clinics
This local integration strengthens job placement opportunities upon graduation.
Accreditation and NCLEX Performance
UAM-CTM nursing programs are approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN, depending on the track completed. Prospective students should request the latest NCLEX pass rate statistics directly from the institution, as pass rates are updated annually.
Admission Requirements
While requirements may change, typical admission criteria include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA requirement
- Completion of prerequisite coursework
- Passing score on entrance exam such as TEAS
- Background check and health screenings
Estimated Tuition and Cost
As a public institution, UAM-CTM offers competitive in-state tuition rates. Total program costs generally include tuition, books, uniforms, clinical supplies, background checks, and licensing exam fees. Financial aid, scholarships, and workforce grants may be available for qualifying students.
Comparison of Nursing Schools Within 50 Miles of McGehee
SchoolDistance from McGeheeProgram TypesAccreditationPrimary CredentialUAM-CTM (McGehee)In CityLPN, RN PathwayArkansas State Board ApprovedCertificate / AASUAM (Monticello)Approx. 25 milesRN, BSNACEN AccreditedAAS / BSNSoutheast Arkansas College (Pine Bluff)Approx. 45 milesLPN, RNState Board ApprovedCertificate / AAS
This comparison highlights that students seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing may consider nearby Monticello, while those focused on rapid workforce entry may prefer beginning with UAM-CTM’s Practical Nursing program.
LPN vs RN Pathways in McGehee
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Typically 12 months of training
- Faster entry into workforce
- Lower educational cost
- Common employment in long-term care and clinics
Registered Nurse (RN)
- Associate degree takes about 2 years
- Bachelor’s degree takes about 4 years
- Broader scope of practice
- Higher earning potential
Many Arkansas students begin as LPNs in McGehee and later bridge into RN or BSN programs.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Southeast Arkansas
Nursing remains one of the most stable career paths in Arkansas. According to statewide labor data, Registered Nurses earn significantly higher median wages than the overall state average. Rural communities such as those surrounding McGehee actively recruit nurses, creating strong employment prospects for local graduates.
Common employers include:
- Regional medical centers
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Home health agencies
- Physician offices
- Public health departments
Graduates who remain in Southeast Arkansas often benefit from reduced cost of living while maintaining stable healthcare employment.
Student Support and Campus Resources
UAM-CTM offers student-centered support designed to improve graduation and licensure success, including:
- Skills labs and simulation practice
- Academic advising
- Tutoring services
- Financial aid counseling
- Career placement assistance
Small class sizes provide personalized instruction and direct faculty mentorship, which is especially valuable in technical healthcare training.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School in McGehee
When evaluating your best option, consider the following factors:
1. Accreditation and Approval
Always confirm approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and, for degree programs, national accreditation.
2. NCLEX Pass Rates
Request the most recent pass rate data for first-time test takers.
3. Program Length and Schedule
Determine whether you need full-time, part-time, or hybrid flexibility.
4. Clinical Opportunities
Ask where students complete clinical rotations and how placement is managed.
5. Total Cost and Financial Aid
Review complete cost breakdowns and speak with the financial aid office about grants, loans, and scholarship options.
Application Checklist for UAM McGehee Nursing
- Submit college application
- Send official transcripts
- Complete prerequisite coursework
- Take entrance exam
- Attend nursing information session
- Submit background check and immunization records
- Apply for financial aid
Applying early is highly recommended, as nursing cohorts may fill quickly due to limited clinical capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in McGehee, Arkansas
What nursing programs can you study in McGehee, Arkansas?
In McGehee, you can study Practical Nursing (LPN) and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (RN pathway) at the University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology–McGehee (UAM-CTM). Within about 50 miles, you can also find full RN and BSN programs in Monticello and Pine Bluff.
How long does it take to become a nurse at UAM-CTM?
The Practical Nursing (LPN) certificate at UAM-CTM usually takes about 12 months of full-time study. If you later move into an RN program, the associate degree typically takes about 2 years, and a BSN from a nearby campus takes about 4 years total.
Is UAM-CTM nursing accredited and NCLEX approved?
Yes. UAM-CTM nursing programs are approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, and graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN, depending on the program completed. You should contact the school for the most current NCLEX pass rate data.
What are the basic admission requirements for UAM McGehee nursing?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA, required prerequisites, a passing score on an entrance exam such as TEAS, and to complete a background check and health screenings. You may also need to attend a nursing information session.
How much does nursing school cost in McGehee, Arkansas?
UAM-CTM is a public college with in-state tuition rates that are generally lower than many private schools. Your total cost will include tuition, books, fees, uniforms, clinical supplies, background checks, and NCLEX exam fees. You can apply for financial aid, scholarships, and workforce grants if you qualify.
What is the difference between the LPN and RN pathways near McGehee?
The LPN pathway at UAM-CTM takes about 12 months and gets you into the workforce faster with lower upfront cost. The RN pathway, usually through an associate or bachelor’s degree at UAM Monticello or nearby colleges, takes longer but offers a wider scope of practice and higher earning potential. Many students start as LPNs and later bridge into RN or BSN programs.
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