RN Nursing Programs and Related Websites
Certificate RN programs
These programs allow the student to gain Registered Nursing (RN) certification but do not result in a college degree. The Baptist program is one of these. Since the Baptist program is not a degree program, students are encouraged to complete the AS degree here at ASU-Beebe. Upgrading to BSN status later would be easier if they do so. This program starts in August.
The Baptist program is a certificate program not a degree program. This should be made clear to students considering this program and whether or not they should complete an ASU-Beebe degree.
For more information, go to Baptist Health Nursing & Allied Health Schools, or call Baptist Health Schools of Nursing and Allied Health at 1-800-345-3046 or (501) 202-7415.
Associate Degree RN programs (ADN)
These programs allow the student to directly earn an associate degree and achieve RN status. This degree is available at UALR and ASU-Jonesboro.
ASU-Jonesboro has begun this program on the ASU-Beebe campus. This program will begin each January. The application deadline is October 1st of the preceding semester.
For more information, to UALR's Nursing Website and to ASU-Jonesboro's Nursing Website.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs (BSN)
These programs allow the student to directly earn a bachelor’s degree and achieve the RN status. UAMS also has such a program, as well as an LPN–RN transition program.
Visit the following websites for more information:
» UAMS College of Nursing
» ASU-Jonesboro College of Nursing & Health Professions
» Harding University College of Nursing
» UCA Department of Nursing
» Arkansas Tech University Department of NursingProspective nursing students should give careful consideration to their program choice; considering such factors as time spent before entering the workforce, salary range at various levels, and eventual goals.
In 2005 the starting salary in Central Arkansas for a new RN with no experience was around $18/hour.
General information regarding nursing in Arkansas, including financial assistance, may be obtained at Arkansas for Nursing.
NOTE: Certification by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing is required to be employed in the nursing field at any level.
