Key Takeaways
- Piggott does not have a standalone nursing school, but several accredited programs are available within commuting distance in Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri.
- Top nearby options include Arkansas State University–Jonesboro, Three Rivers College, and Black River Technical College.
- Accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, tuition, and clinical partnerships are the most important factors when comparing programs.
- Registered nurses in Northeast Arkansas earn competitive salaries, with strong demand in rural hospitals and long-term care facilities.
- Students in Clay County can access state grants, federal aid, and rural healthcare scholarships to reduce tuition costs.
Nursing Programs Near Piggott, Arkansas: What You Need to Know
Piggott, Arkansas is a small town in Clay County. While the city itself does not host a major nursing school, students have access to several high-quality, accredited nursing programs within driving distance. Many residents commute to nearby community colleges and universities in Arkansas and Missouri for Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and practical nursing programs.
This guide breaks down the best nursing schools near Piggott based on accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, affordability, program flexibility, and career outcomes.
Top Nursing Schools Near Piggott, AR
1. Arkansas State University (A-State) – Jonesboro, AR
Distance from Piggott: Approximately 50 miles
Programs Offered: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP
Accreditation: CCNE accredited
Arkansas State University is the closest major university offering a full Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The traditional BSN program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and advanced nursing roles.
Why It Stands Out:
- Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates consistently above state averages
- Modern simulation labs and clinical partnerships across Northeast Arkansas
- Online RN-to-BSN pathway for working nurses
- Competitive in-state tuition
Clinical placements frequently include regional hospitals such as St. Bernards Medical Center and NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital in Jonesboro.
2. Black River Technical College – Pocahontas, AR
Distance from Piggott: Approximately 35 miles
Programs Offered: Practical Nursing (LPN), Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (RN)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Black River Technical College offers one of the most affordable pathways to becoming a nurse in Northeast Arkansas. Many Piggott-area students choose BRTC for its short commute and accessible tuition.
Program Highlights:
- Smaller class sizes with individualized instruction
- High clinical hours in rural healthcare settings
- Strong job placement within the region
- LPN-to-RN transition options
This school is ideal for students seeking a fast track into nursing with lower upfront costs.
3. Three Rivers College – Poplar Bluff, MO
Distance from Piggott: Approximately 30 miles
Programs Offered: ADN, LPN-to-RN Bridge
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Although located in Missouri, Three Rivers College serves many Arkansas residents from Piggott and Clay County.
Advantages:
- Affordable tuition rates
- Solid NCLEX performance
- Flexible scheduling for working adults
- Extensive regional hospital partnerships
Graduates who plan to practice in Arkansas must complete Arkansas State Board of Nursing licensure requirements after NCLEX passage.
4. Arkansas Northeastern College – Blytheville, AR
Distance from Piggott: About 70 miles
Programs Offered: Practical Nursing, Associate Degree Nursing
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Arkansas Northeastern College provides another strong ADN pathway. Its programs are known for strong hands-on training and community healthcare exposure.
Side-by-Side Comparison
SchoolProgram TypesApprox. DistanceBest ForPathway to RNArkansas State UniversityBSN, RN-BSN50 milesFull university experience, BSN track4-year BSNBlack River Tech CollegeLPN, ADN35 milesAffordable, quick entry2-year ADNThree Rivers CollegeADN, LPN-RN30 milesCross-state commuters2-year ADNArkansas Northeastern CollegeLPN, ADN70 milesRural clinical exposure2-year ADN
Choosing the Right Program in the Piggott Area
1. Accreditation and NCLEX Pass Rates
Always verify that the program is accredited by ACEN or CCNE. Accreditation ensures eligibility for licensure and federal financial aid. NCLEX pass rates signal how well a school prepares students for licensing exams.
2. ADN vs. BSN: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Nursing allows faster entry into the workforce. A BSN provides broader career opportunities and is increasingly preferred by hospitals. Many students in Piggott start with an ADN at a community college, then complete an online RN-to-BSN degree through A-State.
3. Commute and Flexibility
Since Piggott is rural, commute time matters. Factor fuel costs, winter weather conditions, and clinical site locations into your decision.
4. Clinical Partnerships
Look for programs working with hospitals in Clay County, Randolph County, and Jonesboro. Rural healthcare experience is valuable and increases local employability.
Nursing Career Outlook in Northeast Arkansas
Nurses are in high demand across rural Arkansas. According to regional workforce data:
- Registered Nurses in Arkansas earn an average salary between $60,000 and $70,000 annually depending on experience.
- Demand is strongest in rural hospitals, long-term care, and home health.
- Clay County and surrounding areas face nursing shortages, creating strong employment prospects for local graduates.
Major healthcare employers near Piggott include:
- Arkansas Methodist Medical Center
- St. Bernards Healthcare
- NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital
- Local long-term care facilities and rehabilitation centers
Arkansas Nursing Licensure Requirements
To become licensed as a Registered Nurse in Arkansas, students must:
- Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Submit an application to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.
- Complete a criminal background check.
Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing RNs to practice in multiple states with one license.
Financial Aid for Nursing Students in Clay County
Students near Piggott can reduce educational costs through:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas Challenge Scholarship
- Arkansas Future Grant for high-demand fields
- Hospital tuition reimbursement programs
- Rural healthcare workforce scholarships
Many local healthcare facilities offer tuition assistance in exchange for employment commitments after graduation.
Step-by-Step Plan to Become a Nurse in Piggott
- Complete high school prerequisites including biology and chemistry.
- Choose between an ADN or BSN pathway.
- Apply to accredited schools within commuting distance.
- Secure financial aid and scholarships.
- Complete clinical training and pass the NCLEX.
- Apply for Arkansas RN licensure.
With strategic planning, residents of Piggott can complete nursing education without relocating far from home, making it possible to build a stable and rewarding healthcare career within Northeast Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs Near Piggott, Arkansas
Does Piggott, Arkansas have its own nursing school?
No. Piggott does not have a standalone nursing school. Most students commute to nearby colleges such as Arkansas State University–Jonesboro, Black River Technical College, Three Rivers College, or Arkansas Northeastern College.
What types of nursing programs can you access near Piggott?
Within driving distance of Piggott, you can find Practical Nursing (LPN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), LPN-to-RN bridge programs, traditional BSN programs, and online RN-to-BSN options for working nurses.
What should you look for when choosing a nursing school near Piggott?
You should check that the program is ACEN- or CCNE-accredited, review recent NCLEX pass rates, compare tuition and fees, and ask about clinical sites in Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri.
Is it better to earn an ADN or a BSN if you live in Piggott?
If you want to start working sooner and keep costs lower, an ADN at a nearby community college may fit you. If you want broader career options, you can earn a BSN at Arkansas State University or complete an RN-to-BSN online after your ADN.
How much do registered nurses earn in Northeast Arkansas?
Registered nurses in Arkansas typically earn about $60,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, employer, and location. Rural hospitals, long-term care, and home health agencies in Northeast Arkansas report steady demand for RNs.
What financial aid can you use for nursing school if you live in Clay County?
You may qualify for Federal Pell Grants, the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, the Arkansas Future Grant for high-demand fields, rural healthcare scholarships, and tuition help or reimbursement from local hospitals and long-term care facilities.
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