Best Online MSN Programs in Arkansas

The midwestern state of Arkansas is known for its scenic landscapes, from the Ozark Mountains to the lush forests and tranquil rivers. Beyond its natural beauty, Arkansas also offers a growing reputation for higher education, making it an attractive destination for nurses seeking Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs that meet their career goals.

Earning an accredited MSN is a vital step for nurses aiming to advance their practice and become nurse practitioners, whether in rural areas or urban centers like Little Rock and Fayetteville. If you’re considering this path, explore the sections below to learn about the various MSN programs and bridge options available in Arkansas, along with admission requirements and tips for finding the most affordable and efficient routes to earning your degree.

2025 - Best Online MSN Programs in Arkansas

RegisteredNursing.org has identified the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in Arkansas for 2025. These programs are recognized for their academic excellence, accessibility, and commitment to advancing the nursing profession. Rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology evaluating factors such as program flexibility, academic quality, and student success. For more details, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

Arkansas State University

State University, AR

Arkansas State University offers a highly respected MSN program through its College of Nursing and Health Professions. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and patient-centered care. With a focus on advanced nursing education and research, graduates are equipped to excel in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

MSN Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nurse Anesthesia Online/Hybrid

2.

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR

he University of Arkansas offers MSN programs through its renowned Eleanor Mann School of Nursing, which is committed to providing quality education and training for nurses. With a focus on evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration, students gain advanced knowledge and skills to become leaders in the healthcare field. The program also offers opportunities for hands-on learning through clinical experiences and research projects.

MSN Programs

• Nurse Educator Online/Hybrid
• Master of Science in Nursing Online/Hybrid

3.

Harding University

Searcy, AR

Harding University's Carr College of Nursing offers top-tier nursing programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and the Doctor of Nursing Practice, both accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated faculty, the Searcy, Arkansas campus provides hands-on learning and clinical experiences to prepare students for successful careers in the nursing field.

MSN Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

RN to MSN Programs in Arkansas

RN to MSN programs are designed for individuals who are already working as RNs but want to level up with a quick and affordable pathway. While the primary admissions requirement for entering into an MSN program is holding a BSN program, if you already have experience as a nurse and an ADN, you can skip this requirement and enroll directly into an MSN program saving you both time and money in the process. The full list of admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• Arkansas RN license
• ADN or nursing diploma
• GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
• Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
• Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

Unfortunately at this time, there are no RN to MSN programs offered in Arkansas, however, you can find plenty in nearby states and transfer any future licensure from where the program is based back to Arkansas. A few examples nearby RN to MSN programs are offered by the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of Memphis.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Arkansas

When going back to school, the primary concern for most nurses is the cost involved and the amount of time it will take to complete the program. The good news is that most MSN programs are fairly affordable and fast compared to other types of programs such as doctorate programs. If you’re looking for a cheap and quick route to graduation in Arkansas, we’ve organized a few viable options below.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

You can expect most MSN programs in Arkansas to take between two and four years. But if you know where to look, you can surely find several MSN programs that are on the lower end of the spectrum or even less, especially if you’re able to locate a self-paced online program or utilize summer school. Below are a few examples of MSN programs offered in Arkansas that are shorter in length:

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Going to graduate school is never cheap but there are plenty of actions you can take to mitigate the cost of tuition. If you haven’t done so already, establishing residency in Arkansas is a good way to qualify for in-state tuition fees which tend to be half the cost as out-of-state tuitions fees, or even less. Beyond that, some schools simply offer lower tuition costs in general. Below are a few examples in Arkansas:

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs offer a fast-track path for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing profession. These intensive programs combine foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice training, preparing students to become MSN-educated and explore advanced careers in nursing with little to no nursing experience. Here are a few of the requirements for admissions:

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
• GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
• Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
• Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
• Admissions interview

One great example of MENP programs located in Arkansas is offered at Harding University located in Searcy, AR.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One sometimes overlooked benefit to getting an MSN degree is that many offer the option to specialize in an area that the student is passionate about. Students in MSN programs are often able to specialize in anything from informatics to public health depending on the availability and the student’s specific interests. Here are a few schools in Arkansas that offer MSN specializations:

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards set by accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It verifies that the program's curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced practice roles, licensure, and certification. Accredited programs are recognized by employers, enhance career opportunities, and qualify for federal financial aid.

2025 List of MSN Programs in Arkansas

Take a look at a the full list of MSN programs that the State of Arkansas has to offer below:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.