Arkansas LPN to RN Guide
Requirements, Programs, Salary & Career Pathways
📋 Quick Summary: Arkansas LPN to RN Path
- Bridge Program Duration: 12 months to 2 years
- Average Cost: $7,500 - $22,000
- LPN Salary: $43,040/year
- RN Salary: $69,660/year (Potential increase: $26,620/year)
- Board of Nursing: Arkansas State Board of Nursing
1. Why Advance from LPN to RN in Arkansas?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Arkansas who advance to Registered Nurse (RN) credentials can expect significant career benefits:
- Higher Salary: RNs in Arkansas earn an average of $69,660/year compared to $43,040/year for LPNs (a $26,620 increase)
- Expanded Scope of Practice: RNs can administer medications, interpret test results, and create patient care plans
- Career Advancement: RN credentials open doors to management, specialization, and advanced practice roles
- Job Security: 6% projected job growth for RNs in Arkansas through 2034
- Rural Healthcare Leadership: Arkansas's rural communities offer excellent opportunities for RNs to take on leadership roles
2. Arkansas LPN to RN Bridge Program Requirements
2.1 Prerequisites
To enroll in an LPN-to-RN bridge program in Arkansas, you typically need:
- Active, unencumbered LPN license in Arkansas
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA: 2.5-3.0 (varies by program)
- Prerequisite courses: Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Psychology, English Composition, College Algebra
- Criminal background check and drug screening
- CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers)
- Minimum 1 year of LPN work experience (recommended by most programs)
- TEAS or HESI entrance exam (program-specific)
2.2 Program Options
| Program Type | Duration | Format | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| LPN to ADN (Associate Degree) | 12-18 months | Campus, Hybrid, Online | $7,500 - $16,000 |
| LPN to BSN (Bachelor's Degree) | 2-3 years | Campus, Hybrid, Online | $14,000 - $32,000 |
| Accelerated LPN to RN | 12 months | Intensive, Full-time | $12,000 - $22,000 |
3. Top Accredited LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Arkansas
3.1 Recommended Programs
- NorthWest Arkansas Community College - LPN/Paramedic to RN Bridge – Bentonville,
Arkansas
Duration: 12-15 months | Format: Online/Hybrid | Accreditation: ACEN
Website: www.nwacc.edu/academicdivisions/healthprofessions/nursing - Arkansas State University Three Rivers - Registered Nursing (LPN to RN) – Malvern, Arkansas
Duration: 12 months | Format: Campus | Accreditation: ACEN
Website: www.asutr.edu/o/asutr/page/registered-nursing-lpn-to-rn - Baptist Health College Little Rock - Accelerated Track – Little Rock, Arkansas
Duration: 12 months | Format: Hybrid | Accreditation: ACEN
Website: www.bhclr.edu/academics/programs/nursing-programs/nursing-accelerated
4. Arkansas LPN vs RN Salary Comparison
| Experience Level | LPN Salary | RN Salary | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $37,000/year | $60,000/year | +$23,000 |
| Mid-Career (3-5 years) | $43,040/year | $69,660/year | +$26,620 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | $48,000/year | $77,000/year | +$29,000 |
💰 Return on Investment: With an average salary increase of $26,620/year, most LPN-to-RN bridge programs pay for themselves within less than 1 year. Arkansas offers affordable programs with excellent ROI.
5. How to Apply to LPN to RN Programs in Arkansas
5.1 Application Timeline
| Step | Timeline | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Research Programs | 4-6 months before | Compare programs, costs, formats, accreditation |
| 2. Complete Prerequisites | 6-12 months before | Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology, Math courses |
| 3. Submit Application | 3-6 months before start date | Transcripts, LPN license, references, work history |
| 4. Entrance Exam | 2-3 months before | TEAS, HESI, or program-specific exam |
| 5. Acceptance & Enrollment | 1-2 months before | Secure funding, register for classes |
6. Financial Aid for LPN to RN Students in Arkansas
Funding options for Arkansas LPN-to-RN students include:
- Federal Financial Aid: Complete FAFSA for Pell Grants, Direct Loans
- Arkansas Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program: Loan forgiveness for nurses working in underserved areas
- Arkansas Rural Health Workforce Program: Grants for students committed to rural healthcare
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many Arkansas hospitals offer $2,000-$4,500/year
- Arkansas Community Foundation Scholarships: Various nursing scholarships for Arkansas residents
- Private Scholarships: Arkansas Nurses Association, AACN, National League for Nursing
7. NCLEX-RN Exam in Arkansas
After completing your LPN-to-RN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed in Arkansas.
7.1 Arkansas NCLEX-RN Requirements
- Application Fee: $125 (Arkansas Board of Nursing) + $200 (Pearson VUE exam fee)
- Pass Rate: 84% first-time pass rate in Arkansas
- Exam Format: 75-145 questions, adaptive testing
- Scheduling: Test within 90 days of authorization
- Processing Time: 4-6 weeks for initial application review
8. Arkansas State Board of Nursing Contact Information
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | healthy.arkansas.gov/boards-commissions/boards/nursing-arkansas-state-board |
| Phone | 501-686-2700 |
| Fax | 501-686-2714 |
| ASBN.info@Arkansas.gov | |
| Mailing Address | Arkansas State Board of Nursing University Tower Building 1123 S. University, Suite 800 Little Rock, AR 72204-1619 |
| Office Hours | Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM CT |