Key Takeaways
- Waldron does not have a standalone nursing college, but several top-ranked nursing schools are within commuting distance.
- University of Arkansas – Fort Smith and Arkansas Tech University are the strongest regional options for BSN and ADN pathways.
- Look for ACEN or CCNE accreditation and recent NCLEX-RN pass rates above 85 percent.
- Students in Scott County benefit from clinical placements at Mercy Hospital Waldron and regional facilities in Fort Smith.
- Online and hybrid RN to BSN programs offer flexible options for working nurses in Waldron.
Nursing Education Near Waldron, Arkansas
Waldron, Arkansas is a small city in Scott County, which means students pursuing nursing degrees typically attend schools in nearby communities such as Fort Smith, Russellville, or Booneville. While Waldron does not currently host a full nursing degree program, commuting options within 30 to 90 minutes provide access to accredited, high-quality nursing education.
Choosing the right nursing school involves more than rankings. Prospective students should evaluate accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, tuition costs, clinical placement opportunities, and job outcomes in the Waldron region.
What to Look for in a Nursing School
1. Accreditation
Ensure the program is accredited by either:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accreditation ensures eligibility for licensure and federal financial aid.
2. NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
A strong nursing program consistently posts first-time NCLEX pass rates above the state average. In Arkansas, statewide pass rates typically range from 85 to 90 percent. Look for programs meeting or exceeding that benchmark.
3. Clinical Partnerships
For Waldron residents, proximity to clinical sites such as Mercy Hospital Waldron, Baptist Health Fort Smith, and regional clinics is critical. Strong hospital partnerships often improve hands-on training and employment prospects.
4. Program Pathways
- ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)
- BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
- RN to BSN completion programs
- LPN to RN bridge programs
Best Nursing Schools Near Waldron, Arkansas
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith (UAFS)
Distance from Waldron: Approximately 45 miles north
UAFS consistently ranks among the top nursing schools in western Arkansas. The Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing offers BSN and RN to BSN programs designed to meet state workforce needs.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Programs: Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN
- Clinical Sites: Baptist Health Fort Smith, Mercy Fort Smith, regional clinics
- Learning Format: On-campus with some hybrid coursework
UAFS is particularly attractive for Waldron students seeking a four-year degree with strong clinical rotation options in Fort Smith healthcare facilities.
Arkansas Tech University (ATU) – Russellville
Distance from Waldron: Approximately 80 miles east
ATU offers one of the most established nursing programs in Arkansas. The university provides traditional BSN, LPN to BSN, and RN to BSN tracks.
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Strong statewide reputation
- Competitive NCLEX outcomes
Although the commute is longer, ATU may appeal to students seeking broader campus resources and expanded clinical experiences.
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Associate Programs
For students seeking a faster entry into the workforce, associate-level pathways are available through community college partnerships in the region. These typically take two years and prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN.
Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC)
Distance from Waldron: Approximately 110 miles
While farther away, NWACC is recognized for strong ADN outcomes. This option is best for students willing to relocate.
Program Comparison for Waldron Area Students
SchoolDistance from WaldronDegrees OfferedAccreditationBest ForUAFS45 milesBSN, RN to BSNCCNECommuters seeking 4-year degreeArkansas Tech University80 milesBSN, LPN to BSNACENStudents wanting established statewide reputationNWACC110 milesADNACENRelocating students wanting 2-year degree
Tuition and Financial Aid
In-state tuition for Arkansas public universities typically ranges between $7,000 and $9,000 per year for undergraduate programs, excluding fees and books. Associate degree programs are generally more affordable.
Students in Waldron may qualify for:
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Arkansas Health Education Grant
- Federal Pell Grants
- Institution-specific nursing scholarships
Some healthcare systems in western Arkansas offer tuition reimbursement programs in exchange for work commitments after graduation.
Online and Hybrid Nursing Options
Working adults in Waldron often choose online RN to BSN programs. Many Arkansas universities offer hybrid models where coursework is online but clinical requirements are completed locally.
Online options are ideal for:
- Licensed RNs advancing their degree
- Parents balancing family obligations
- Full-time healthcare workers
Career Outlook for Nurses in Waldron and Scott County
Nursing demand in western Arkansas remains steady due to rural healthcare needs and an aging population. Local employers include:
- Mercy Hospital Waldron
- Scott County Medical Clinic
- Baptist Health Fort Smith
- Mercy Fort Smith
Registered nurses in Arkansas earn an average annual salary in the mid $60,000 range, with higher wages available in Fort Smith. BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for leadership and specialty roles with stronger earning potential.
Graduates who complete clinicals in local facilities frequently secure employment offers before graduation, especially in rural service areas experiencing staff shortages.
Admission Requirements
While each program differs slightly, most nursing schools near Waldron require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
- Prerequisites such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and English Composition
- TEAS entrance exam scores
- Background check and immunization records
Competitive programs may use a points-based admissions system prioritizing science GPA and entrance exam performance.
Choosing the Right Path in Waldron
The best nursing school for you depends on your timeline, budget, and long-term career goals. If you want quicker entry into practice, an ADN program may be ideal. If you aim for leadership or advanced practice roles, a BSN is the stronger foundation.
For most Waldron-area students, University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers the best balance of proximity, accreditation, and hospital partnerships. Arkansas Tech University is another strong contender for those willing to commute farther for a comprehensive university experience.
Before enrolling, visit campuses, speak with admissions advisors, review recent NCLEX pass rates, and confirm clinical placement locations near Waldron and Scott County.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools Near Waldron, Arkansas
Does Waldron, Arkansas have its own nursing school?
No. Waldron does not have a standalone nursing college. You will need to commute to nearby schools such as the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith or Arkansas Tech University in Russellville.
What are the best nursing program options close to Waldron?
Your strongest nearby options are the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith for BSN and RN to BSN pathways, and Arkansas Tech University in Russellville for BSN and bridge programs. NWACC is a good ADN option if you plan to relocate.
How far will I need to commute from Waldron for nursing school?
You can expect a commute of about 45 miles to Fort Smith (UAFS), 80 miles to Russellville (Arkansas Tech), and around 110 miles to Bentonville (NWACC). Many Waldron students choose Fort Smith because it is the shortest drive.
What should you look for in a nursing school near Waldron?
You should check for ACEN or CCNE accreditation, first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates at or above about 85%, local clinical sites such as Mercy Hospital Waldron or Fort Smith hospitals, total tuition, and program length and format (ADN, BSN, or online RN to BSN).
Can you complete nursing clinicals near Waldron?
Yes. Many programs place students at Mercy Hospital Waldron, Baptist Health Fort Smith, Mercy Fort Smith, and nearby clinics. These sites let you gain experience in both rural and regional hospital settings.
Are there online or hybrid nursing options for Waldron nurses?
Yes. Several Arkansas universities offer online or hybrid RN to BSN programs. You complete most coursework online while finishing clinical requirements at approved facilities in or near Waldron.
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