University of Arkansas Fort Smith Nursing School Review

The University of Arkansas Fort Smith (UAFS) is a public four-year university that is part of the University of Arkansas System. It was founded in 1928 and merged into the system in 2002. The courses offered there vary from baccalaureate degree programs to associate and technical programs.

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Various colleges can be found on campus with the College of Health Sciences being one of them. It is there that nursing students are taught for the traditional BSN program, the RN to BSN online program, the associate degree program (ASN), PN/Paramedic to RN (ADN) and Practical Nursing.

PN Program

Students that want to enter the world of nursing quickly without having to go through a BSN course can choose this entry option. After successful completion they can consider more advanced studies if they are inclined about taking on more responsibilities as a nurse and want to secure and even more promising career. They must have a score of 105 on the NLN Pre-Admission Exam (PAX PN or PAX-RN) before applying for the PN program. During the course they will be taught important skills that related to patient care in different health care facilities. They will work directly with a supervisor or registered nurse to administer the best possible care to patients. After completing the program, they can sit the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

PN / Paramedic to RN (ADN)

Licensed practical nurses and paramedics that want to enter this program must have an unencumbered license prior to applying. LPNs must have at least 1000 hours of working experience or be able to demonstrate that they graduated from the LPN program within the last 12 month before sending in their application. There are in essence two ways in which LPNs can gain access to the ADN program: credit by examination or completing the transition course.

Paramedics on the other hand can only enter into the program through the transition course and must demonstrate that they have held a steady full- time job for at least six months. Both LPN and Paramedic students will receive the necessary training to shape their abilities to become talented registered nurses. After successful completion they can take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

RN-BSN online program

RNs that are interested in this program must submit proof of NLNAC accredited associate degree or diploma nursing program. They must also have a valid active license with no hindrances. Those that have graduated from a nursing program that is not recognized by NLNAC can still apply, but will be evaluated according to the established criteria. There is also the possibility for credit standing provided the RN meets the necessary work experience and graduation time before submitting an application.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN)

All students must complete the necessary prerequisite courses to enter the BSN program. After successful completion of the BSN course they can sit the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Associate degree in Nursing (ADN)

This course is offered once each year and all students must complete the necessary pre-requisite courses prior to the fall deadline. It is also necessary to score 105 on the NLN Pre-Admission Exam (PAX-RN) prior to this period.

Contact:

University of Arkansas Fort Smith
5210 Grand Avenue 
P.O. Box 3649
Fort Smith, AR 72913-3649 

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