Best Nursing Schools in Paris, Arkansas

Key Takeaways

• Paris, Arkansas does not have a standalone four-year nursing university, but students can access high-quality nursing programs within a short drive.
• Top options near Paris AR include Arkansas Tech University–Ozark, University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, and Arkansas Tech University in Russellville.
• Most programs offer LPN, ADN, BSN, and RN to BSN pathways, all aligned with Arkansas State Board of Nursing licensure requirements.
• Look for ACEN or CCNE accreditation, strong NCLEX pass rates, and clinical partnerships with local healthcare facilities in Logan County and surrounding areas.
• Registered nurses in Arkansas earn an average salary of $65,000 to $72,000 per year, with strong demand in rural communities.

Nursing Education Opportunities Near Paris, Arkansas

Students searching for the best nursing schools in Paris, Arkansas should understand one important fact: while Paris is a small city in Logan County, it is strategically located near several respected nursing programs within 30 to 60 minutes. These schools provide accredited pathways into licensed practical nursing, registered nursing, and bachelor-level programs.

For aspiring nurses in Paris AR, the smart strategy is to evaluate nearby institutions based on accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training sites, tuition, and career outcomes.

Top Nursing Schools Near Paris AR

1. Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus (Ozark, AR)

Distance from Paris: Approximately 25 minutes
Programs Offered: LPN, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited, approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing

Arkansas Tech University–Ozark is one of the most accessible and practical options for students in Paris Arkansas. The program emphasizes hands-on training and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN exams.

Why It Stands Out:

• Strong clinical partnerships with regional hospitals and long-term care facilities in Franklin and Logan counties
• Competitive tuition rates for in-district students
• Structured pathways from LPN to RN

The Ozark campus is especially appealing for students looking for smaller class sizes and direct faculty mentorship.

2. University of Arkansas–Fort Smith (Fort Smith, AR)

Distance from Paris: Approximately 55 minutes
Programs Offered: Traditional BSN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN
Accreditation: CCNE accredited

For students aiming for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, UAFS is one of the strongest options in western Arkansas. The Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing is well regarded for academic rigor and community engagement.

Program Highlights:

• Modern simulation labs and advanced clinical technology
• Clinical rotations at Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and Baptist Health facilities
• High NCLEX pass rates compared to state averages

A BSN from UAFS opens doors to leadership roles, hospital-based careers, and graduate education.

3. Arkansas Tech University (Russellville, AR)

Distance from Paris: Approximately 40 minutes
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN
Accreditation: CCNE accredited

Arkansas Tech in Russellville offers a comprehensive BSN program known for rigorous academics and strong clinical alignment. Many students from Logan County choose ATU for its balance of affordability and academic reputation.

Clinical Opportunities Include:

• Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center
• Dardanelle Regional Medical Center
• Community health agencies throughout the Arkansas River Valley

Comparison of Nursing Programs Near Paris Arkansas

SchoolProgramsAccreditationApprox. DistanceBest ForATU–OzarkLPN, AASNACEN25 minutesAffordable entry into nursingUAFSBSN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSNCCNE55 minutesFull BSN pathwayATU – RussellvilleBSN, RN to BSNCCNE40 minutesStrong academic reputation

Types of Nursing Programs Available

LPN Programs

Licensed Practical Nurse programs generally take 12 to 18 months. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN. This pathway allows faster entry into the workforce, often in nursing homes and clinics across Logan County.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

ADN programs prepare students to become registered nurses in two years. Many community-based students choose this option for affordability and quick employment.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

BSN programs typically take four years, though accelerated tracks exist. Hospitals increasingly prefer BSN-prepared nurses. A BSN also prepares graduates for leadership roles and advanced certifications.

RN to BSN Bridge Programs

Designed for licensed RNs with an associate degree, these online or hybrid programs allow working nurses in Paris AR to advance without relocating.

Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools

While specific criteria vary, most nursing schools near Paris Arkansas require:

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 for nursing prerequisites
• Completion of science prerequisites such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and College Algebra
• TEAS entrance exam scores
• Background check and immunization records

Programs are competitive. Applying early and earning high grades in science courses significantly improves acceptance chances.

Clinical Training in the Paris AR Region

One of the biggest advantages of studying near Paris Arkansas is local clinical experience. Students may complete rotations at:

• Mercy Hospital Paris
• Mercy Hospital Ozark
• Baptist Health facilities in western Arkansas
• Local long-term care and rehabilitation centers in Logan County

Clinical placements in rural hospitals provide exposure to diverse patient populations and strong hands-on experiences.

NCLEX Pass Rates and Career Outcomes

When evaluating the best nursing schools in Paris AR, NCLEX pass rates are critical. Strong programs consistently achieve first-time pass rates above 85 percent.

According to recent Arkansas workforce data:

• Registered Nurses in Arkansas earn an average salary between $65,000 and $72,000 annually.
• Licensed Practical Nurses earn approximately $42,000 to $48,000 annually.
• Rural communities face nursing shortages, creating strong job placement opportunities.

Graduates from regional programs often secure employment before graduation due to strong clinical partnerships.

Cost and Financial Aid

Community college and regional university tuition in Arkansas remains lower than the national average.

• In-district community college tuition can be significantly more affordable than private institutions.
• Arkansas Lottery Scholarship may be available for qualifying students.
• Federal financial aid and FAFSA eligibility apply to accredited programs.
• Some rural hospitals offer tuition reimbursement in exchange for employment commitments.

Always verify that the program holds ACEN or CCNE accreditation to ensure eligibility for federal aid and seamless licensure processing.

How to Choose the Right Nursing School Near Paris AR

When comparing programs, prioritize the following:

1. Accreditation through ACEN or CCNE
2. NCLEX pass rates above the state average
3. Clinical access within commuting distance
4. Schedule flexibility for working students
5. Total cost including fees, uniforms, and exam preparation

Prospective students should schedule campus visits, speak with current nursing students, and review official program outcome data before applying.

For residents of Paris Arkansas and Logan County, the combination of nearby accredited institutions, accessible clinical sites, and strong job demand makes the region an advantageous place to begin a nursing career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools near Paris, Arkansas

Does Paris, Arkansas have its own nursing school?

No. Paris, Arkansas does not have a standalone four-year nursing university, but you are within 30 to 60 minutes of several accredited programs in Ozark, Russellville, and Fort Smith.

What are the closest nursing programs to Paris AR?

The closest options are Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus (about 25 minutes), Arkansas Tech University in Russellville (about 40 minutes), and the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith (about 55 minutes).

What types of nursing degrees can you earn near Paris Arkansas?

You can start with an LPN or ADN/AASN and move up to a BSN or RN to BSN bridge. These programs prepare you for the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN and meet Arkansas State Board of Nursing requirements.

How much do nurses earn in Arkansas?

Registered nurses in Arkansas typically earn about $65,000 to $72,000 per year, while LPNs earn around $42,000 to $48,000 per year, with strong demand in rural areas like Logan County.

What should you look for in a nursing school near Paris AR?

Check for ACEN or CCNE accreditation, NCLEX pass rates above the state average, clinical sites close to Paris, total program cost, and flexible schedules if you plan to work while in school.