Where you go to college and how far you go in the world of nursing is completely up to you.
Both private and public two and four-year colleges and universities offer registered nursing programs that are divided into two categories: a two-year associate degree, or a four-year baccalaureate degree. Before going to work, the graduate is required to pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
In addition to the traditional route, there are two-year diploma certificate programs offered through hospitals such as Baptist Health in Little Rock and Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff.
In Arkansas there are more than 46,000 licenses issued by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing in the following categories: LPN (licensed practical nurse); RN (registered nurse); LPTN (licensed psychiatric technical nurse); RNP (registered nurse practitioner); APN (advanced practice nurse); ANP (advanced nurse practitioner); CNM (certified nurse midwife); CRNA (certified registered nurse anesthetist); and CNS (clinical nurse specialist).
There are 29 LPN, 25 RN and 3 APN programs approved by the board located throughout the state. Only those licensed by the board, or those holding a license from a compact state which is their primary state of residence, may practice nursing in Arkansas.
Programs in nursing are open to men and women without discrimination on the basis of race, religion, marital status, national origin, age, or handicap.
Many institutions in Arkansas are offering online classes as well.
Think ahead
If you’re planning to pursue a nursing career, here are some valuable things to consider:
*Contact the school of your choice for help in planning a course of study. Ask about specific entrance requirements such as tuition costs, housing and financial aid.
*Take the required entrance exam as early as possible. You’re required by law to have a high school diploma or GED prior to admission to nursing school.
*If you’re an RN transfer or post baccalaureate student, have your transcripts sent to the school of your choice for evaluation.
Baccalaureate Degree (a four-year degree)
Baccalaureate programs are accredited by associations and approved by the board of nursing. At the completion of a program, the student is awarded the degree of bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). At the completion of an Arkansas State Board of Nursing-approved program, the student is granted a diploma. The graduate is eligible to take the NCLEX and upon successful completion, the graduate will become a RN.
Associate Degree (two-year degree)
Associate degree programs, offered by two- and four-year colleges and universities, are accredited by a regional accreditation association and approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. At the completion of a program, the student is awarded an associate of science (AS) or associate of science in nursing (ASN). At the completion of an Arkansas State Board of Nursing approved program, the student is granted a diploma. The graduate is then eligible to take the NCLEX.
Practical Nursing
Both private and public two and four-year colleges and universities offer practical nursing programs, which generally take one year to complete. The Arkansas State Board of Nursing approves the practical nursing programs and upon completion of the program, the student receives a certificate.
Continuing Education
After completing the basic nursing programs, you might want to consider an advanced degree. Like LPNs and RNs, there are classes that must be taken and specific licensure examinations that must be passed.
For instance, RNPs must complete a nurse practitioner program in addition to an RN program. To be licensed as an APN, an RN must complete an advanced practice nurse program and hold certification from a national entity. And LPTNs must pass a specific state licensure exam.
