RN-to-MSN Programs in Arkansas – 2026
Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
In Arkansas, graduates of RN-to-MSN programs average $110,520 a year in salary. But that’s not the only reason to enroll in RN-to-MSN programs in Arkansas. You got your RN license because you love nursing, but aren’t you frustrated by the lack of opportunities open to ADN-educated nurses? An MSN will open doors to nursing roles with enhanced opportunities. Combining bachelor’s and master’s training takes much less time than pursuing those two degrees separately, saving you additional tuition costs. Demand for nurses who’ve graduated from this accelerated program is expected to rise by a whopping 61 percent in just one decade. This guide to the best RN-to-MSN programs in Arkansas can tell you more about it.
WHAT ARE THE BEST RN-TO-MSN PROGRAMS IN ARKANSAS(ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2026?
Based on our Ranking Methodology, listed below are the Best RN-to-MSN Programs in Arkansas (Online & Campus) for 2026.1. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - Little Rock
Specialties Offered: Nurse Administration
Program Details: If you are a registered nurse with an associate degree or diploma in nursing interested in a career in nursing administration, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a program that could be the perfect path to help you achieve your goals. The RN-to-MSN program allows you to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Nursing Science degree in one pathway. The program streamlines the RN-to-BSN curriculum and adds master’s-level instruction in the Nurse Administration track.
One of the best RN-to-MSN programs in Arkansas, the program offers flexible scheduling, with theory classes delivered entirely online. You can complete practicum requirements near home, which is a perk for working nurses who prefer less travel time while in school.
The RN-to-MSN program features a 57-credit curriculum plan comprised of RN-to-BSN courses, Dual BSN/MNSc courses, and MNSc courses. Your study plan includes classes such as Law, Policy, & Procedure in Healthcare, Healthcare Informatics, Personnel Management, and Financial Management. The program also includes 540 Nursing Administration practicum hours.
Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the RN-to-MSN program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, you must have an associate degree in nursing and an unencumbered Arkansas or Compact State RN license. You must complete a College of Nursing application and submit letters of recommendation, an admission essay, and transcripts from all post-secondary schools you attended. The program prefers candidates with a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or higher. In some cases, the university offers conditional admission to applicants with a GPA of 2.5-2.84.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences RN-to-MSN Students
• Graduates of the RN-to-MSN program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences are highly educated and well-prepared for advanced roles in nursing administration. Most graduates secure a job offer within a few months of completing the program. High job placement rates indicate employer satisfaction with the program, which is an important factor to consider when choosing a school and program.• UAMS reports that graduates of its RN-to-MSN Nursing Administration program have gone on to work as Executive Director, Nursing Supervisor, Chief Nursing Officer, and Vice-President of Patient Care.
• I understand what it is like trying to juggle school with a busy career and family. That’s why I encourage prospective students to carefully consider all program options before committing to a school or program. If you have a job or family, finding a program that offers scheduling flexibility can create the opportunity for you to pursue your goals without disrupting your other obligations. One appealing aspect of the RN-to-MSN program at The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is that you can complete clinical requirements in your home region, rather than relocating to Little Rock. The School of Nursing coordinates clinical site and preceptor contracts and works closely with students to find the best placements.
2. The University of Arkansas at Monticello - Monticello
Program Details: The University of Arkansas at Monticello offers another excellent option for prospective students seeking an RN-to-MSN program in Arkansas. You can complete the program in 36 months of full-time study, or take up to seven years if you pursue part-time study.
The program begins with undergraduate coursework and two graduate courses (Advanced Health Assessment and Advanced Pathophysiology). Students in this path receive 39 credit hours for having a current RN license. You earn those credits once you complete the undergraduate coursework and the two graduate prerequisite courses. Once you matriculate into the master’s component of the program, you will complete an additional 37 credit hours.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello incorporates hands-on practicum experiences into several RN-to-MSN program courses. Students are responsible for identifying practicum sites and preceptors and must obtain approval and coordinate agreements through the School of Nursing.
Admission Requirements: Candidates seeking admission to the RN-to-MSN program at the University of Arkansas at Monticello must have a technical diploma or associate degree in nursing and have an unencumbered RN license in their state of residence. To be considered, you must submit an application for admission to the university and an MSN Electronic Application.
You must also provide two letters of recommendation, a Personal Statement, and transcripts from any post-secondary school you have attended. The university prefers applicants with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75. However, candidates with a GPA less than 2.75 may be considered on a space-available basis.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential University of Arkansas at Monticello RN-to-MSN Students
• The University of Arkansas at Monticello believes strong support helps promote success. As an RN-to-MSN student, you will have academic advisors, preceptors, and faculty available to guide you and provide resources to ensure you receive a high-quality education with support at every turn.• Rather than preparing students for a single APRN role, the University of Arkansas at Monticello’s RN-to-MSN program focuses on public health nursing. The curriculum addresses areas such as population health, social determinants of Health, epidemiology, public health policy, evidence-based practice, and research. Upon completion, you will be prepared for leadership and management roles that shape public health initiatives.
• The RN-to-MSN program at the University of Arkansas at Monticello is relatively new, having been established in 2022. However, the university’s latest nursing report indicates 100% job placement for students who earned their BSN and continued on to earn their MSN.
• If you want to earn your MSN but need financial assistance to help pay for school, UA-M can help. The University of Arkansas at Monticello’s Financial Aid Office can help you identify programs you may be eligible for and guide you through the application process. After applying to the MSN program, prospective students are encouraged to complete the Master of Science in Nursing Scholarship Application. Financial aid advisors are available to assist you as needed.
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