Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Arkansas State University-Newport

Arkansas State University-Newport's practical nursing program charges $11,300 in typical debt for graduates earning just under $40,000 in their first year—creating one of the better debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find in nursing education. While the starting salary trails the national median by about $4,000, it actually exceeds Arkansas's state median for practical nursing programs, placing it at the 60th percentile among the state's 28 programs. For families considering in-state options, this matters: the program costs less than the typical Arkansas nursing certificate while delivering above-average state earnings.

The challenge is modest earning potential compared to top Arkansas programs. Graduates here start about $8,000 below what Baptist Health College Little Rock's program produces, though they also carry significantly less debt. Earnings do grow to $42,000 by year four, but this represents only 5% growth—practical nursing income tends to plateau relatively quickly regardless of program. With 41% of students receiving Pell grants, this program appears to serve students who need an affordable entry point into nursing rather than maximum earning potential.

For Arkansas families seeking a manageable financial path to practical nursing licensure, this program works. The debt load is reasonable, and graduates earn enough to handle repayment comfortably. Just understand you're choosing affordability over the higher salaries that some Arkansas programs deliver—a trade-off that makes sense if minimizing borrowing is the priority.