Reviewing Online RN to BSN Programs in Arkansas

How They Work: Inside Arkansas Programs

RN to BSN programs in Arkansas are designed with working nurses in mind. Because RNs complete most hands-on training before licensure, much of the remaining BSN coursework can be finished online, making it easier to balance school, work, and personal responsibilities.

Here’s what to know as you explore your options:

1. Online flexibility: Most RN to BSN coursework is delivered online, though some programs may include limited in-person labs or clinical requirements.
2. Program quality: CCNE-accredited online programs provide the same academic rigor and outcomes as traditional on-campus programs.
3. Admission requirements: Applicants typically need an active, unencumbered RN license; some programs also require an ADN and professional nursing experience.

Below are three examples of accredited online RN to BSN programs in Arkansas. Explore details on what you can expect in terms of format, requirements, and structure.

Arkansas BSN Bridge Program FAQs

Whether you’re curious about how long an RN to BSN online program takes or what financial aid options are available, you most likely have some questions. To make your research easier, we’ve compiled the answers to the most asked questions by prospective online RN to BSN Arkansas students like you.

How will an RN-to-BSN program in Arkansas prepare me for more opportunities?

To address the need for improved outcomes, hospitals are seeking to hire more BSN-educated nurses. More education means more responsibility, and in the case of nursing, it also means higher-quality care and greater preference from employers.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reported that in 2019, 40.6% of hospitals and other healthcare settings required new hires to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, while 77.4% of employers expressed a strong preference for BSN program graduates. This shows that BSN-prepared nurses are preferred not only for clinical nursing roles but also have an advantage when it comes to management and non-traditional nursing positions.

How long is an RN-to-BSN program in Arkansas?

Online RN to BSN programs in Arkansas typically take about 1-2 years to complete, though this can differ from program to program. Since students in bridge programs are already licensed nurses, they can complete their degrees more quickly than those who are new to the field.

For a better idea of how long a program might take, below are the average timelines for five RN to BSN online programs in Arkansas:

• Arkansas Tech University: 12 months
• University of Arkansas Little Rock: 12-18 months
• University of Central Arkansas: 12-24 months (full-time or part-time)
• Arkansas State University: 12-15 months
• Ouachita Baptist University: 9-12 months

How much do RN-to-BSN programs cost in Arkansas?

Students across three of the best online RN to BSN programs in Arkansas pay an average of $277 per credit hour. See the exact breakdown below:

• Ouachita Baptist University: $275 per credit hour
• University of Arkansas Little Rock: $280 per credit hour
• Arkansas State University: $276 per credit hour

Like the average program length, the cost of getting an RN to BSN online in Arkansas differs from school to school. Additionally, these numbers only include tuition. You may also be responsible for distance learning fees, books, and course materials, among other costs.

What requirements do I need to meet to apply for admission to RN to BSN programs in Arkansas?

The general requirements to get your RN to BSN online in Arkansas include an unencumbered nursing license in the state of Arkansas, an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited school or university, and an application fee. You must also have a computer that meets school specifications.

Like everything else, the exact requirements will vary from program to program. For example, the University of Central Arkansas also requires applicants to have worked 1,000 hours as a nurse in the previous 12 months. Be sure to check each program’s admissions requirements before applying.

What should I look for in an RN to BSN degree program in Arkansas?

When looking at online RN to BSN programs in Arkansas, there are some objective traits of a good program, such as accreditation, a high-quality curriculum, affordability, and student support resources. However, you also want to determine how well a program’s format corresponds to your preferred learning style.

For example, all classes are asynchronous at the University of Arkansas. For some students, this format would provide the flexibility and independence they need to balance work, school, and family obligations. For others, that lack of real-time, face-to-face interaction with their professor and peers could cause confusion, a lack of motivation, and even a lower GPA.

Arkansas Salary Expectations for BSN Holders

While BSN degrees require more time to complete than a standard RN program or associate degree, they also come with several benefits. In Arkansas, BSN-prepared nurses earn a higher annual salary. The average salary for RN-educated nurses is about $66,000, while nurses with their BSN make close to $83,000 per year.

Obtaining your BSN may also lead to earlier and better career opportunities. Many organizations prefer or require that their nurses have a BSN degree, as studies have shown that BSN-educated nurses offer higher levels of patient care over those with just a diploma or associate degree.

There are many potential jobs that require a BSN degree, such as nurse managers, nurse educators, case management nurses, clinical nurse leaders, quality improvement coordinators, and nursing research assistants. Some states also require a BSN for jobs such as being a school nurse, correction nurse, flight nurse, or public health nurse.

Whichever path you decide on, being a nurse will always provide opportunities to increase your level of education and build your career in a fulfilling role that will be in demand wherever you live.

Top Online RN to BSN Bridge Programs in Arkansas