Key Takeaways
- West Memphis nursing students primarily attend Arkansas State University Mid-South locally or commute 15 to 30 minutes to Memphis-based programs.
- Top pathways include Practical Nursing (LPN/LVN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, and clinical partnerships are critical factors when choosing a program.
- Registered Nurses in the West Memphis and Memphis metro area earn competitive salaries, with strong regional demand.
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options make nursing one of the most accessible high-paying careers in Crittenden County.
Why Nursing Is a Strong Career Choice in West Memphis, Arkansas
West Memphis sits directly across the Mississippi River from Memphis, Tennessee, giving students access to both Arkansas-based colleges and major healthcare systems in the Memphis metro area. Baptist Memorial Hospital, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, Regional One Health, and numerous clinics provide strong clinical training opportunities and post-graduation employment options.
According to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Registered Nurses in the Arkansas and Memphis region earn average annual salaries ranging from approximately $67,000 to $75,000 depending on experience and specialty. Licensed Practical Nurses typically earn between $42,000 and $50,000 annually. Healthcare employment in the region continues to grow, driven by an aging population and expanding hospital systems.
This combination of affordability, accessibility, and strong job demand makes West Memphis an excellent location to begin a nursing career.
Top Nursing Schools Near West Memphis, Arkansas
1. Arkansas State University Mid-South (West Memphis, AR)
Distance: Located in West Memphis
Programs Offered: Practical Nursing (PN), Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-RN)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission; nursing programs approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
Arkansas State University Mid-South is the most accessible option for local students. The college offers a Practical Nursing program for students seeking fast entry into the workforce and an Associate Degree pathway for those pursuing RN licensure.
Why It Stands Out:
- Strong partnerships with local and regional hospitals
- Competitive tuition rates for Arkansas residents
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Local clinical placements, minimizing commute time
This school is ideal for students who want affordable tuition, smaller class sizes, and direct workforce entry within Crittenden County.
2. University of Memphis – Loewenberg College of Nursing (Memphis, TN)
Distance: Approximately 15 minutes from West Memphis
Programs Offered: BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNP
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
For students seeking a four-year BSN or advanced nursing degrees, the University of Memphis offers nationally respected nursing education. The Loewenberg College of Nursing is known for strong NCLEX performance and research-backed curriculum.
Ideal For:
- Students pursuing leadership or advanced practice nursing roles
- Those planning to obtain a graduate degree
- Career changers enrolling in accelerated BSN programs
Though tuition for out-of-state students may differ, proximity makes it a strong option for West Memphis residents.
3. Southwest Tennessee Community College (Memphis, TN)
Distance: 20 to 25 minutes from West Memphis
Programs Offered: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Accreditation: ACEN-accredited
Southwest Tennessee Community College offers an affordable ADN pathway that prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program is competitive but highly respected in the region.
Highlights:
- Strong NCLEX-RN preparation
- Lower tuition compared to four-year institutions
- Established hospital partnerships in Memphis
4. Baptist Health Sciences University (Memphis, TN)
Distance: About 15 minutes
Programs Offered: BSN, RN-to-BSN
Accreditation: CCNE-accredited
Located in the heart of Memphis’ medical district, Baptist Health Sciences University focuses exclusively on healthcare education. Its direct affiliations with Baptist Memorial Health Care create immersive clinical experiences.
This private institution may have higher tuition but offers focused healthcare training and strong employer connections.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Top Nursing Schools
SchoolLocationMain ProgramsBest ForASU Mid-SouthWest Memphis, ARPN, AAS-RNAffordable local optionsUniversity of MemphisMemphis, TNBSN, MSN, DNPAdvanced and leadership careersSouthwest TN CCMemphis, TNADNBudget-friendly RN pathBaptist Health Sciences UniversityMemphis, TNBSNHospital-connected education
How to Choose the Right Nursing Program
1. Verify Accreditation
Ensure the school is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing or Tennessee Board of Nursing and nationally accredited by ACEN or CCNE. Accreditation impacts financial aid eligibility and licensure portability.
2. Compare NCLEX Pass Rates
Strong programs consistently report high first-time NCLEX pass rates. Ask admissions offices for the most recent data to evaluate program quality.
3. Evaluate Total Cost
Factor in tuition, fees, uniforms, insurance, textbooks, and clinical supplies. Community colleges typically offer lower tuition, while private universities may provide more robust campus resources.
4. Consider Commuting and Clinical Rotations
If attending a Memphis-based school, evaluate traffic patterns and bridge commute times. Clinical site placement can affect your daily travel schedule.
5. Explore Financial Aid Options
Complete the FAFSA annually. Arkansas students may qualify for state grants, scholarships, or loan forgiveness programs for nurses working in underserved areas.
Nursing Career Outlook in West Memphis and Crittenden County
Healthcare remains one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in eastern Arkansas. Regional hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics consistently hire LPNs and RNs.
Common Employers Include:
- Baptist Memorial Hospital – Memphis
- Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
- Regional One Health
- Local skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers in Crittenden County
Many graduates remain in the Memphis metropolitan area due to job availability and competitive wages. Those who begin with an ADN often return later for an RN-to-BSN completion program to increase earning potential and advancement opportunities.
Admissions Requirements Overview
While requirements vary by school, most nursing programs in the West Memphis area require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of prerequisite science courses such as Anatomy and Physiology
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 to 3.0
- Entrance exams such as TEAS
- Background check and drug screening
- Immunization documentation
Because many programs are competitive, students should apply early and maintain strong grades in science and math coursework.
Online and Hybrid Nursing Options
Fully online pre-licensure nursing programs are rare due to clinical requirements. However, many schools offer hybrid models with online lectures combined with in-person labs and clinicals. RN-to-BSN programs are widely available online, allowing working nurses in West Memphis to advance their education without leaving their jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools near West Memphis, Arkansas
What are the main nursing school options near West Memphis, Arkansas?
You can attend Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis or commute to Memphis schools such as the University of Memphis, Southwest Tennessee Community College, and Baptist Health Sciences University. These schools offer PN, ADN/AAS-RN, and BSN programs, plus advanced degrees in some cases.
Which nursing pathways can you start in the West Memphis area?
You can start as a Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN), earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN/AAS-RN) to become an RN, or enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). You can later bridge from ADN to BSN or move into MSN and DNP programs in Memphis.
How much do nurses earn around West Memphis and Memphis?
In the Arkansas and Memphis region, Registered Nurses typically earn about $67,000 to $75,000 per year, while Licensed Practical Nurses often earn around $42,000 to $50,000 annually, based on recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (https://www.bls.gov/oes/).
How do you choose the right nursing program near West Memphis?
You should confirm state board and national accreditation, review recent NCLEX pass rates, compare total costs, and look at commute times and clinical sites. Also check financial aid options, including the FAFSA and any Arkansas grants or scholarships for nursing students.
What are common admission requirements for local nursing schools?
Most programs ask for a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite science courses like Anatomy and Physiology, a minimum GPA (often 2.5–3.0), an entrance exam such as the TEAS, plus a background check, drug screen, and proof of immunizations.
Can you study nursing online if you live in West Memphis?
For pre-licensure nursing, you usually use hybrid formats with online lectures and in-person labs and clinicals. If you are already an RN, you can complete an RN-to-BSN fully online through many regional and national programs while you keep working.
.svg)
