Key Takeaways
- Texarkana offers accredited nursing pathways from CNA and LPN to ADN and BSN completion programs.
- Top local options include Texarkana College and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, with regional BSN pathways nearby.
- Graduates in southwest Arkansas benefit from strong hospital partnerships, steady job growth, and competitive entry-level RN salaries.
- NCLEX pass rates, accreditation status, clinical partnerships, and tuition costs should guide your decision.
- Most programs offer financial aid, scholarships, and flexible learning formats for working students.
Why Choose Texarkana for Nursing School?
Texarkana, Arkansas sits on a unique state line border, giving nursing students access to healthcare facilities in both Arkansas and Texas. This dual-market healthcare economy increases clinical placement opportunities and post-graduation employment options.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Arkansas earn an average annual salary of approximately $68,000, with strong demand projected statewide. In the Texarkana metro area, major employers such as CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, Wadley Regional Medical Center, and local long-term care facilities create consistent hiring pipelines for new graduates.
Students who attend nursing school in Texarkana benefit from lower tuition rates compared to larger metro areas, smaller class sizes, and access to diverse clinical settings without big-city costs.
Accredited Nursing Schools in Texarkana, Arkansas
Below is a comprehensive comparison of leading nursing programs in and around Texarkana. All data reflects publicly available program information and state board reports.
SchoolProgram TypesAccreditationEstimated In-District TuitionNCLEX Pass RateClinical PartnersTexarkana CollegeLVN, ADN (RN)ACEN Accredited~$3,500–$4,500 per yearAbove state averageCHRISTUS St. Michael, Wadley RegionalUniversity of Arkansas Hope-TexarkanaLPN, ADN (RN)Accredited by Arkansas State Board of Nursing~$3,000–$4,000 per yearCompetitive statewide ratesRegional hospitals & clinicsTexas A&M University-TexarkanaRN-to-BSNCCNE AccreditedVaries by residencyN/A (BSN completion)Regional health systems
Top Nursing Programs Explained
Texarkana College
Texarkana College is one of the most recognized nursing schools in the region. Its Associate Degree in Nursing program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN and transition directly into hospital roles.
Why it stands out:
- Accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Strong local employer partnerships
- Modern simulation labs
- High job placement rates within the Texarkana area
The LVN pathway allows students to enter the workforce more quickly, while the ADN option provides advancement to RN status with higher earning potential.
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana
This institution offers practical nursing and registered nursing programs designed for workforce readiness. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical training in regional healthcare facilities.
Students often choose UAHT for its affordability and structured learning environment. Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing after passing the NCLEX exam.
Texas A&M University-Texarkana (BSN Completion)
For registered nurses seeking career advancement, Texas A&M University-Texarkana offers an RN-to-BSN program. While not an initial licensure pathway, it is ideal for ADN-prepared nurses working in Texarkana who want to qualify for leadership, public health, or graduate nursing roles.
Program Requirements and Admissions
Most Texarkana-area nursing programs require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as Anatomy and Physiology
- Minimum GPA requirements
- TEAS entrance exam scores
- Background check and immunizations
Admission is competitive. Applicants should focus on achieving high science GPAs and strong TEAS scores. Many programs operate on a point-based admissions system, weighing academic performance heavily.
NCLEX Preparation and Licensure in Arkansas
Graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN to become licensed. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing oversees licensure in the state. Schools in Texarkana integrate NCLEX preparation into their curriculum through:
- Simulation-based testing practice
- Comprehensive review courses
- Predictor exams to determine exam readiness
Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing RNs to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This is especially valuable in a border city like Texarkana.
Career Outlook and Salary in Texarkana
The demand for nurses in southwest Arkansas remains strong due to:
- An aging population
- Rural healthcare access needs
- Ongoing staffing shortages
Estimated average salaries in the region:
- Licensed Practical Nurse: $42,000–$50,000 annually
- Registered Nurse: $60,000–$75,000 annually
- BSN-prepared RN: Potential for higher pay and supervisory roles
Local employers frequently recruit directly from clinical rotations, which increases employment prospects for students who perform well during placements.
Clinical Partnerships and Real-World Experience
Students in Texarkana nursing programs gain hands-on experience in:
- Acute care hospitals
- Long-term care facilities
- Outpatient clinics
- Community health settings
Proximity to both Arkansas and Texas facilities broadens exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare systems.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships
One major advantage of studying nursing in Texarkana is affordability. Community college tuition is significantly lower than four-year universities. Financial support options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- State workforce grants
- Institutional scholarships
- Healthcare employer tuition reimbursement programs
Some regional healthcare systems offer scholarships or loan repayment agreements in exchange for employment commitments after graduation.
How to Choose the Best Nursing School in Texarkana
To find the best program for your goals, evaluate:
- Accreditation: Ensures eligibility for licensure and federal financial aid.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: Higher pass rates indicate effective preparation.
- Program Length: LPN programs are shorter; ADN and BSN take longer.
- Clinical Access: Hospitals and specialty placements improve job readiness.
- Advancement Opportunities: Availability of bridge or BSN programs.
Students seeking fast workforce entry may choose an LPN pathway. Those pursuing long-term career growth in leadership or advanced practice should consider ADN-to-BSN progression planning.
Commuting and Campus Accessibility
Texarkana’s compact layout reduces commute times. Most nursing programs are accessible within 20 to 30 minutes for surrounding communities. Free or affordable campus parking is often available, reducing student expenses further.
Because healthcare facilities are concentrated within the metro area, clinical travel is typically manageable compared to more rural nursing programs in Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Texarkana
What nursing programs can you study in Texarkana?
In Texarkana, you can start as a CNA or LPN/LVN and move into an ADN (RN) program. Texarkana College and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana offer LPN/LVN and ADN options, while Texas A&M University–Texarkana offers an RN-to-BSN completion program for working RNs.
Is nursing school in Texarkana accredited?
Yes. Texarkana College’s ADN program is accredited by ACEN, the RN-to-BSN at Texas A&M University–Texarkana is CCNE accredited, and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. You should always confirm current accreditation on each school’s website and with the state board of nursing.
How much does it cost to attend a nursing program in Texarkana?
In-district tuition for community college nursing programs in Texarkana usually ranges from about $3,000 to $4,500 per year, not including books, fees, and supplies. Costs vary by residency status and program length, so you should review the current tuition schedule from each school’s financial aid or bursar office.
How long does it take to become a nurse in Texarkana?
If you choose an LPN/LVN program, you can often finish in about 1 year of full-time study. An ADN (RN) program usually takes about 2 years after you complete your prerequisites. An RN-to-BSN completion program typically adds 12 to 18 months of study once you are already a licensed RN.
What are the job prospects and salary for nurses in Texarkana?
You can expect steady demand from local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care centers in both Arkansas and Texas. In Arkansas, registered nurses earn about $68,000 per year on average, and in the Texarkana area many new RNs start in the $60,000 to $75,000 range, with LPNs earning around $42,000 to $50,000 annually.
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