Key Takeaways
- There are no four-year universities located directly in Star City, Arkansas, but several high-quality nursing programs operate within a practical commuting distance.
- Southeast Arkansas College in Pine Bluff is the closest and most accessible option for ADN and LPN pathways.
- University of Arkansas at Monticello offers BSN pathways within about 30 miles of Star City.
- NCLEX pass rates, accreditation status, and clinical partnerships with local facilities are critical factors when choosing a program.
- Healthcare demand in Southeast Arkansas remains steady, with opportunities in long-term care, hospitals, and rural health systems.
Why Choose a Nursing School Near Star City, Arkansas?
Star City is a small but strategically located community in Lincoln County, about 25 miles from Pine Bluff and 30 miles from Monticello. While Star City itself does not host a four-year nursing college, students have access to accredited nursing programs nearby without relocating far from home.
For many aspiring nurses, staying close to family and clinical networks matters. Local nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and rural clinics provide hands-on training opportunities while supporting community healthcare needs.
How We Evaluated the Best Nursing Schools Near Star City
The schools below were selected based on:
- Accreditation: Approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and national accrediting bodies such as ACEN or CCNE.
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Student success on the licensure exam.
- Program Variety: Availability of LPN, ADN, and BSN pathways.
- Affordability: Competitive tuition for Arkansas residents.
- Clinical Partnerships: Access to hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community clinics in Southeast Arkansas.
Top Nursing Programs Near Star City, Arkansas
1. Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK) – Pine Bluff, AR
Distance from Star City: Approximately 25 miles
Programs Offered: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN), Practical Nursing (LPN)
Accreditation: ACEN accredited; approved by Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Southeast Arkansas College is the most convenient nursing school for Star City residents. Its Associate Degree in Nursing prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN, while the Practical Nursing certificate prepares students for the NCLEX-PN.
Why It Stands Out:
- Affordable in-district tuition
- Strong clinical partnerships in Pine Bluff and surrounding counties
- Emphasis on workforce-ready training
- Competitive but accessible admission requirements
Admission Requirements Typically Include:
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Acceptable ACT or ATI TEAS scores
- Background check and immunization records
Career Outlook: Graduates commonly work in Jefferson and Lincoln County hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities such as The Blossoms at Star City.
2. University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) – Monticello, AR
Distance from Star City: Approximately 30 miles
Programs Offered: Traditional BSN, LPN to BSN pathway
Accreditation: CCNE accredited
UAM offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing for students seeking a four-year degree. A BSN may lead to higher earning potential and eligibility for leadership or specialty roles.
Why It Stands Out:
- University-level nursing education close to home
- LPN to BSN bridge option
- Expanded clinical training in regional hospitals
BSN graduates often pursue employment in regional medical centers, public health offices, or continue to advanced practice in graduate programs.
3. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) – Pine Bluff, AR
Distance from Star City: Approximately 28 miles
Programs Offered: Traditional BSN, RN to BSN completion
Accreditation: CCNE accredited
UAPB provides another BSN pathway within commuting distance. The RN to BSN option is particularly useful for registered nurses who earned an associate degree and want to expand career opportunities.
Ideal For:
- Students seeking a historically Black college or university environment
- Working RNs planning leadership advancement
- Those looking for structured campus support services
Program Comparison Table
SchoolDistance from Star CityDegree OptionsAccreditationBest ForSoutheast Arkansas College25 milesLPN, ADNACENAffordable entry into nursingUniversity of Arkansas at Monticello30 milesBSN, LPN to BSNCCNEFour-year nursing degreeUniversity of Arkansas at Pine Bluff28 milesBSN, RN to BSNCCNECareer advancement
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition varies by institution and residency status. Community colleges typically offer the lowest cost entry into nursing. Arkansas residents benefit from state-supported tuition rates and financial aid programs.
Common Funding Options Include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Institutional scholarships
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
Healthcare employers in Southeast Arkansas occasionally provide tuition assistance in exchange for employment commitments after graduation.
Clinical Training Opportunities in and Around Star City
Nursing students in this region gain clinical experience at:
- Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff
- Drew Memorial Health System in Monticello
- Local long-term care facilities such as The Blossoms at Star City
- Community health clinics serving rural populations
Rural clinical experience can be a significant advantage. Nurses trained in underserved areas often develop strong assessment skills and adaptability, qualities valued by employers statewide.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Career Outcomes
When evaluating programs, review their most recent NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN pass rates. High first-time pass rates suggest strong academic preparation and effective instruction.
Graduates in Southeast Arkansas often secure employment shortly after licensure due to sustained healthcare demand, particularly in:
- Long-term care
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Regional hospitals
- Home health agencies
Choosing the Right Nursing Path in Star City
Your ideal program depends on your long-term goals:
- Fast Entry into Workforce: Choose LPN or ADN at Southeast Arkansas College.
- Higher Earnings and Leadership Roles: Pursue a BSN at UAM or UAPB.
- Working Nurse Advancement: Select an RN to BSN or LPN to BSN bridge program.
Visit campuses, speak with admissions advisors, confirm accreditation, and review state board approval before enrolling. With careful planning, students in Star City can access respected, accredited nursing education without leaving Southeast Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools Near Star City, Arkansas
Are there any nursing schools directly in Star City, Arkansas?
No. There are no nursing schools based in Star City, but you are within about 25–30 miles of programs in Pine Bluff and Monticello that offer LPN, ADN, and BSN options.
What is the closest nursing program to Star City?
Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK) in Pine Bluff is the closest nursing school to Star City. It offers LPN and ADN programs within an easy commute of about 25 miles.
Can you earn a BSN near Star City without moving?
Yes. You can commute to the University of Arkansas at Monticello or the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff for a traditional BSN or bridge options like LPN to BSN and RN to BSN.
What should you look for when choosing a nursing school near Star City?
Check that the program is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, holds ACEN or CCNE accreditation, shows strong NCLEX pass rates, fits your budget, and offers solid clinical sites in local hospitals and long-term care centers.
What financial aid is available for nursing students in Southeast Arkansas?
You may qualify for federal Pell Grants, the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, school-based scholarships, and employer tuition assistance, especially from local healthcare facilities that need nurses.
Where will you complete clinicals if you study near Star City?
You can expect clinical rotations at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff, Drew Memorial Health System in Monticello, long-term care centers such as The Blossoms at Star City, and nearby rural health clinics.
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