Key Takeaways
- Sheridan, Arkansas does not have a standalone nursing college, but several accredited programs are available within driving distance.
- Prospective students can pursue LPN, ADN, BSN, and RN to BSN pathways close to Sheridan.
- Top regional options include University of Arkansas at Monticello, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and South Arkansas Community College.
- NCLEX pass rates, accreditation status, tuition costs, and clinical partnerships are critical factors when choosing a nursing school.
- Local hospitals and healthcare providers offer strong clinical and employment opportunities for graduates in Grant County and surrounding areas.
Why Study Nursing Near Sheridan, Arkansas?
Sheridan, located in Grant County, offers small town affordability with access to regional healthcare employers. While there is no nursing school directly inside Sheridan city limits, students benefit from several high quality programs within 45 to 90 minutes. This access allows you to earn a respected nursing degree while staying connected to local healthcare providers such as Baptist Health Medical Center Stuttgart, Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff, and CHI St. Vincent facilities in central Arkansas.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Arkansas earn an average annual salary of approximately $69,000, with steady job growth projected over the next decade. Demand is especially strong in rural and underserved communities like Grant County.
Top Nursing Schools Near Sheridan, Arkansas
1. University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM)
Distance from Sheridan: Approximately 50 miles
Programs Offered: LPN to RN, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Consistently aligned with or above state averages
UAM is one of the most accessible nursing pathways for Sheridan residents. The Associate Degree Nursing program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter practice quickly. The program emphasizes hands-on training and partner clinical experiences across southeast Arkansas healthcare facilities.
This is an excellent option for students seeking a cost effective ADN before entering the workforce.
2. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB)
Distance from Sheridan: Approximately 35 miles
Programs Offered: Traditional BSN, RN to BSN
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Delivery Format: On-campus and hybrid options
UAPB offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which is increasingly preferred by hospitals hiring RNs. The program combines academic rigor with community-based clinical rotations throughout Pine Bluff and Jefferson County.
For current RNs in Sheridan, the RN to BSN option allows working nurses to complete their bachelor’s degree while maintaining employment.
3. South Arkansas Community College (SouthArk)
Distance from Sheridan: Approximately 90 miles
Programs Offered: Practical Nursing (LPN), Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited
Although farther from Sheridan, SouthArk has a strong reputation for practical nursing education. Students benefit from high NCLEX pass rates and structured clinical education.
4. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
Distance from Sheridan: Approximately 55 miles (Little Rock campus)
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP
Accreditation: CCNE accredited
UAMS is Arkansas’ leading academic health sciences university. For students who want advanced practice roles or leadership positions, UAMS provides direct pathways to graduate nursing education.
Side by Side Comparison of Nursing Schools Near Sheridan
School Degree Options Approx. Distance Accreditation Best For UAM ADN, LPN to RN 50 miles ACEN Affordable RN entry UAPB BSN, RN to BSN 35 miles ACEN Bachelor’s pathway SouthArk LPN, ADN 90 miles ACEN Practical nursing training UAMS BSN, MSN, DNP 55 miles CCNE Advanced practice and leadership
Nursing Degree Options Explained
LPN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurse programs typically take 12 to 18 months. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-PN and often work in long term care facilities and clinics. This is the fastest path into nursing.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An ADN requires about two years and leads to RN licensure. It is the most common pathway for Sheridan students seeking a balance between cost and career mobility.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A BSN generally takes four years but provides broader training in leadership, research, and community health. Many Arkansas hospitals now prefer or require BSN nurses.
Bridge Programs
LPN to RN and RN to BSN bridge tracks allow working professionals to advance their credentials without starting over. These flexible options are popular among nurses in rural Arkansas.
Admission Requirements
Although each school differs slightly, most nursing programs near Sheridan require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Prerequisite courses in biology, anatomy, and chemistry
- Minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0
- Entrance testing such as TEAS
- Background check and immunization records
Admission is competitive. Strong grades in science courses and prior healthcare experience can improve acceptance chances.
Clinical Training and Local Partnerships
Hands-on clinical experience is essential. Schools serving Sheridan students commonly partner with:
- Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Pine Bluff
- CHI St. Vincent Infirmary, Little Rock
- Baptist Health facilities
- Regional long term care and rehabilitation centers
These partnerships allow students to gain exposure to emergency care, medical surgical nursing, pediatrics, and obstetrics while building professional networks.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition varies by institution and residency status. Arkansas public colleges typically offer lower in-state tuition rates. Associate degree programs at community colleges are the most affordable option.
Financial assistance options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Nursing Student Loan Programs
- Employer tuition reimbursement from local healthcare providers
Students should complete the FAFSA early and explore school-specific nursing scholarships.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Sheridan and Grant County
Healthcare remains one of the fastest growing employment sectors in Arkansas. Rural communities face nursing shortages, increasing job stability and advancement potential.
Graduates can pursue careers in:
- Hospitals and emergency departments
- Primary care clinics
- Home health agencies
- Long term care facilities
- Public health departments
Experienced RNs can later advance into nurse practitioner roles or healthcare administration through graduate study.
How to Choose the Right Nursing School Near Sheridan
When evaluating programs, consider the following:
- Accreditation: Look for ACEN or CCNE approval.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher rates indicate strong preparation.
- Commute Time: Clinical rotations require frequent travel.
- Total Cost: Include tuition, books, uniforms, and exam fees.
- Program Flexibility: Working students may need evening or hybrid options.
Visiting campuses, speaking with admissions advisors, and reviewing published outcome data can help you make a confident decision.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools Near Sheridan, Arkansas
Does Sheridan, Arkansas have its own nursing school?
No, Sheridan does not have a standalone nursing college. You can attend nearby accredited programs such as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Arkansas at Monticello, South Arkansas Community College, and UAMS in Little Rock, all within driving distance.
What nursing degrees can you earn near Sheridan?
Near Sheridan you can earn an LPN certificate, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), traditional BSN, RN to BSN, and advanced degrees such as MSN and DNP. These options let you start as an LPN or RN and later bridge to higher levels if you choose.
How long does it take to become a nurse near Sheridan?
If you choose an LPN program, plan on about 12 to 18 months. An ADN usually takes around two years, and a traditional BSN takes about four years. Bridge programs like LPN to RN or RN to BSN can be shorter because you get credit for previous nursing work and courses.
What are the basic admission requirements for nursing programs near Sheridan?
Most programs ask for a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite courses in subjects like biology and anatomy, a minimum GPA around 2.5–3.0, an entrance exam such as the TEAS, and a background check with up-to-date immunizations. Some schools may also consider prior healthcare experience.
What is the job outlook and pay for nurses near Sheridan?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Arkansas earn about $69,000 per year on average, with steady job growth expected over the next decade. Rural and underserved areas like Grant County often have strong demand for RNs in hospitals, clinics, long term care, and home health.
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