Key Takeaways
- Arkansas State University–Newport (ASU-Newport) is the leading nursing school located directly in Newport, Arkansas, offering an accredited Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN).
- Nearby universities expand options for BSN and advanced degrees, including Arkansas State University in Jonesboro.
- Accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical partnerships, and cost should guide your decision.
- Newport offers affordable living, accessible clinical sites, and strong community healthcare partnerships.
- Graduates of Arkansas nursing programs benefit from steady job demand and competitive regional salaries.
Why Study Nursing in Newport, Arkansas?
Newport is a small but strategically located city in Jackson County, offering aspiring nurses a blend of affordability, hands-on training opportunities, and access to regional healthcare systems. While the number of nursing schools physically located in Newport is limited, the quality and accessibility of nearby programs make the area highly attractive.
Arkansas continues to experience strong demand for registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), particularly in rural and regional healthcare settings. According to workforce data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Arkansas earn competitive wages relative to cost of living, and healthcare employment growth remains steady statewide.
Top Nursing School in Newport, Arkansas
Arkansas State University–Newport (ASU-Newport)
Location: Newport, AR
Primary Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Approval: Arkansas State Board of Nursing
ASU-Newport is the cornerstone of nursing education in Newport. It is the only institution physically located in the city offering a registered nursing pathway.
Program Overview
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination. Upon passing, students become licensed registered nurses.
The curriculum blends:
- Classroom instruction in medical-surgical, maternal-child, and mental health nursing
- Skills lab simulation training
- Supervised clinical rotations at regional healthcare facilities
Students benefit from small class sizes and direct faculty support, often cited as a key advantage versus larger universities.
Clinical Partnerships
ASU-Newport places students in clinical settings throughout Jackson County and surrounding areas. Clinical sites typically include:
- White River Health facilities
- Long-term care and rehabilitation centers
- Community health clinics
- Regional hospitals in nearby cities
These partnerships provide hands-on patient care experience in both acute and long-term settings, which is particularly valuable for rural healthcare preparation.
Admissions and Prerequisites
Admission is competitive. Typical requirements include:
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, and English Composition
- Minimum GPA requirement
- Satisfactory entrance exam scores if required
- Background checks and immunization compliance
Students should apply early and confirm updated deadlines directly with ASU-Newport.
Tuition and Affordability
As a public two-year institution, ASU-Newport offers affordable tuition compared to four-year universities. In-district and in-state students benefit from lower tuition rates, and financial aid options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Scholarships
- Arkansas state aid programs
- Payment plans
Nearby Nursing Schools Worth Considering
Because Newport is a smaller city, many students also explore reputable programs within commuting distance.
Arkansas State University (Jonesboro)
Distance from Newport: Approximately 35 miles
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- RN to BSN
- Master’s and advanced practice programs
This university provides a pathway for students who want a four-year degree or advanced nursing credentials. Many ASU-Newport graduates transition to RN-to-BSN programs here.
Other Regional Community Colleges
Several Arkansas community colleges offer ADN or LPN programs within driving distance. These programs may provide alternate admission dates or different clinical partnerships.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Top Options
SchoolDegree TypeLocationAccreditedIdeal ForASU-NewportAssociate (AASN)Newport, ARYes (ACEN)Local students seeking RN licensureArkansas State UniversityBSN, GraduateJonesboro, ARYes (CCNE)Students pursuing 4-year or advanced degrees
What Makes a Nursing School “The Best”?
When evaluating nursing schools in Newport, consider these critical factors:
1. Accreditation
Always confirm accreditation through ACEN or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures eligibility for licensure and graduate education.
2. NCLEX Pass Rates
High first-time NCLEX pass rates indicate strong academic preparation and faculty support.
3. Clinical Experience
Schools with strong hospital and healthcare partnerships provide more hands-on learning and employment networking.
4. Cost and Financial Aid
Community colleges often provide the most affordable route to RN licensure. Compare total program cost, not just tuition per credit hour.
5. Pathway Opportunities
Check whether the school offers or connects easily to RN-to-BSN or graduate programs.
Nursing Career Outlook in Newport and Arkansas
Healthcare remains one of Arkansas’s largest employment sectors. RNs work in:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care centers
- Nursing homes and rehabilitation centers
- Physician offices
- Public health agencies
Rural and regional communities such as Newport often have strong demand for qualified nurses, increasing job stability for graduates.
Student Life and Living in Newport
Newport offers a low cost of living compared to national averages. Students often benefit from:
- Affordable housing options
- Smaller class sizes and community support
- Short commuting distances to clinical sites
- Close relationships with faculty and healthcare providers
For students who value community-focused education and hands-on training, Newport provides a practical and supportive environment.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School in Newport
Follow these steps to make an informed decision:
- Confirm accreditation and state approval.
- Review curriculum structure and clinical hours.
- Compare total program costs and available financial aid.
- Ask about NCLEX pass rates from recent years.
- Visit the campus and speak with faculty or current students.
- Consider long-term goals such as BSN or graduate school.
For most students seeking nursing education in Newport itself, ASU-Newport represents the primary and most practical starting point. Those interested in expanded degree options can easily bridge into four-year or graduate programs through nearby universities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Newport, Arkansas
What nursing programs are offered in Newport, Arkansas?
In Newport, Arkansas State University–Newport (ASU-Newport) offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN), which prepares you to become a registered nurse and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Is ASU-Newport’s nursing program accredited and approved?
Yes. ASU-Newport’s AASN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, which helps you qualify for licensure after graduation.
Can you earn a BSN after starting at ASU-Newport?
Yes. Many students complete the AASN at ASU-Newport, become RNs, and then transfer into RN-to-BSN programs at nearby schools such as Arkansas State University in Jonesboro for a bachelor’s degree.
What are the basic admission requirements for ASU-Newport’s AASN?
You typically need prerequisite courses like Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, and English Composition, a minimum GPA, required entrance exam scores if listed, plus a background check and proof of immunizations. Always confirm current requirements with the school before you apply.
Why choose Newport, Arkansas, for nursing school?
You benefit from a lower cost of living, small class sizes, short commutes to clinical sites, and strong clinical partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care centers, which can give you more hands-on training time.
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