Best Nursing Schools in Stuttgart, Arkansas

Key Takeaways

• Stuttgart, Arkansas has one primary in-town nursing pathway through Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA).
• Nearby cities such as Pine Bluff, Little Rock, and Helena-West Helena expand your BSN and LPN options within driving distance.
• Top programs are accredited, maintain strong NCLEX pass rates, and offer clinical placements in local hospitals and long-term care facilities.
• Affordable tuition and local workforce demand make Stuttgart an attractive place to begin an RN career.
• Choosing the right program depends on your career goal: LPN, RN (ADN/AAS), or BSN.

Why Study Nursing in Stuttgart, Arkansas?

Stuttgart may be known as the “Rice and Duck Capital of the World,” but it is also a practical and affordable place to begin a nursing career. Arkansas faces a consistent demand for registered nurses, particularly in rural communities. According to statewide workforce projections, healthcare remains one of the fastest-growing sectors in Arkansas, with strong demand for RNs, LPNs, and advanced practice nurses.

For local students, attending nursing school near Stuttgart reduces living costs and allows access to clinical placements in community-based facilities. Major healthcare employers nearby include Baptist Health Medical Center–Stuttgart, regional clinics, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

Overview of Nursing Pathways in Stuttgart

Before choosing a school, it is important to understand the degree options available:

1. Practical Nursing (LPN/LVN)

Typically 12 to 18 months. Prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and entry-level nursing roles.

2. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN or AAS)

Two-year program. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-RN and become Registered Nurses.

3. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Four-year degree or RN-to-BSN bridge program. Expands leadership and advancement opportunities.

In Stuttgart itself, the primary offering is at the associate degree level, with nearby options for BSN advancement.

Top Nursing Schools Near Stuttgart, Arkansas

Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA) – Stuttgart Campus

Best for: Affordable, local RN education

PCCUA is the leading nursing education provider in Stuttgart. Its Associate of Applied Science in Nursing prepares students to become registered nurses through classroom learning, labs, and supervised clinical experiences.

Program TypeLengthAccreditationNCLEX PrepLocationAAS in Nursing2 YearsApproved by Arkansas State Board of NursingPrepares for NCLEX-RNStuttgart, AR

Why PCCUA Stands Out

• Affordable in-state tuition
• Small class sizes for personalized instruction
• Clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities
• Strong regional reputation

Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite courses in biology and anatomy
• Competitive GPA
• Entrance exam scores if required
• Background check and immunizations

This program is ideal for students searching for “affordable nursing programs in Stuttgart AR” who want to stay close to home.

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB)

Distance from Stuttgart: Approximately 45 minutes

Best for: BSN pathway

UAPB offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing designed for students who want long-term advancement opportunities. A BSN is increasingly preferred by healthcare employers and may increase earning potential.

Program TypeLengthDegree AwardedIdeal ForTraditional BSN4 YearsBachelor's DegreeFirst-time college studentsRN-to-BSN1 to 2 YearsBachelor's DegreeLicensed RNs

This option is excellent for graduates of PCCUA who want to advance their education without relocating far from Stuttgart.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) – Little Rock

Distance: About 1 hour

Best for: Advanced nursing and competitive BSN programs

UAMS is one of Arkansas’s most recognized medical institutions. It offers BSN, accelerated BSN, and advanced practice degrees. While more competitive, UAMS provides extensive clinical exposure and strong professional networks.

How to Become an RN in Stuttgart, Arkansas

1. Complete prerequisites. Focus on anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and general education courses.
2. Apply to an accredited nursing program. PCCUA is the primary local choice.
3. Complete clinical training. Gain hands-on experience in approved healthcare settings.
4. Pass the NCLEX-RN. Required for Arkansas licensure.
5. Apply for Arkansas RN licensure. Through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Many students begin with an ADN at PCCUA and later complete an RN-to-BSN program online or at UAPB.

Comparing Nursing Programs Near Stuttgart

SchoolDegree LevelApprox. DistanceBest FeaturePCCUA StuttgartAAS (RN)In TownAffordability and accessibilityUAPBBSN45 MinutesUniversity-level advancementUAMSBSN and Higher1 HourReputation and specialization

NCLEX Pass Rates and Accreditation Matter

When evaluating programs, prioritize:

• Approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
• Accreditation from recognized nursing education bodies
• Strong NCLEX pass rates
• Transparent graduate outcomes

High NCLEX pass rates indicate effective instruction and exam preparation. Ask programs for their most recent data.

Tuition and Financial Aid Options

Community colleges like PCCUA generally offer the most affordable entry into nursing. Students may qualify for:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Arkansas state aid programs
• Healthcare workforce scholarships
• Employer tuition reimbursement

Many local healthcare facilities offer hiring incentives or tuition assistance in exchange for employment commitments.

Career Outlook for Nurses in Stuttgart

Registered Nurses in Arkansas earn competitive wages relative to cost of living. Rural hospitals and clinics especially value graduates who are trained locally.

Common employers near Stuttgart include:

• Baptist Health Medical Center–Stuttgart
• Long-term care and rehabilitation centers
• Primary care clinics
• Public health agencies

With experience and further education, RNs can move into roles such as nurse manager, nurse educator, or nurse practitioner.

How to Choose the Right Nursing School

To select the best nursing school in Stuttgart, ask these questions:

• Is the program accredited and board-approved?
• What is the recent NCLEX pass rate?
• Are clinical rotations local and convenient?
• What are total tuition and fees?
• Does the school offer tutoring or NCLEX prep support?

For most students seeking a practical and cost-effective start, PCCUA Stuttgart is the leading choice. For those seeking broader advancement or specialization, nearby universities offer strong continuation pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs in Stuttgart, Arkansas

What nursing programs are available in Stuttgart, Arkansas?

In Stuttgart, Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA) offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing that prepares you to become a Registered Nurse and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Can you get a BSN degree near Stuttgart?

Yes. You can earn a BSN at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (about 45 minutes away) or the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock (about 1 hour away), or complete an RN-to-BSN after finishing your ADN at PCCUA.

How long does it take to become an RN in Stuttgart?

If you choose the AAS in Nursing at PCCUA, it usually takes about two years of full-time study. After graduation, you must pass the NCLEX-RN and apply for licensure with the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Is nursing school in Stuttgart affordable?

PCCUA is a community college with relatively low in-state tuition, and many students use federal grants, Arkansas state aid, and healthcare scholarships to reduce costs. Studying close to home can also lower housing and travel expenses.

Where do nursing students in Stuttgart complete clinicals?

You can expect clinical rotations in local and regional settings such as Baptist Health Medical Center–Stuttgart, clinics, long-term care centers, and rehabilitation facilities in the surrounding area.