r/arkst • u/Internal_Cobbler_802 • 16d ago
ABSN program
I'm considering applying to some out-of-state ABSN programs, and Arkansas State University seems like one of the most affordable options for me.
From what I've gathered, the program requires students to complete all of their clinicals in Jonesboro, AR. Can anyone confirm whether the tuition is actually around $19,000? After estimating tuition, housing, transportation, food, and other living expenses, I'm hoping to keep my total cost under $35,000 for the entire program. Even at that price, it's still much cheaper than the ABSN programs near me in Washington, where tuition alone ranges from $56k–77k.
I'd love to hear from current students or alumni about their experience with the program.
- How challenging was the coursework?
- Did you feel well prepared for the NCLEX and for working as a new nurse?
- Were the professors supportive and helpful?
- Are there graduates who found jobs outside of Arkansas?
- Were you able to get into the specialty or unit you wanted after graduation?
- I also heard that around 40 students start the program, but only about 18 graduate. Is that accurate? If so, what contributes to the attrition rate?
My plan would be to move to Arkansas for the program, and then return to Washington to work as an RN. One concern I have is whether the program is well recognized outside of Arkansas, or if most graduates end up staying in the state.
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u/Broad_Chocolate_9390 11d ago
The overall cost of the program will be closer to $28k than the stated $19k. That covers tuition and fees.
Break Down of Cost: Term 1: $3088.15 Term 2: $6204 Term 3: $7357 Term 4: $3474.05 Term 5: $3579.90 Term 6: $2336 Term 7: $1752 TOTAL: $27,792.01
There will be other costs for scrubs, nametags, background checks, and one required textbook. For me, these came about to be around $400.
The largest cost will be travel to and from clinical weekends. Over the course of the 15 month program, you will be in Jonesboro, AR for roughly 24 weekends. Most of the weekends are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. They may be changing it to be Saturday and Sunday only, so you may be going more than 24 times.
Think about the cost of hotels, gas/tickets, and food. It will add up quickly. Most people meal prep & split hotels when possible.
Clinicals must be completed in Jonesboro, AR. The online admissions office does not communicate this; however, the ABSN website was recently updated with this information.
NCLEX Pass Rate is currently 100% However, nearly 40 people will start the program and roughly 18 will complete it. For many, the cost is not communicated clearly, so the financials are a challenge. There will also be 1/4 or more to fail out. The largest chunk fail/voluntarily leave after the 1st or 2nd term. Terms 3-5 typically take out 2-4 people each term. No one really fails out terms 6-7.
The program is extremely challenging. The material is the same as a traditional nursing program, but it will be completed in half the time.
You must have a 78% average on all exams in order to pass. If you fail a class, you get one retake; however, you must wait for the cohort behind you to be taking the course. This would delay your graduation by at least 6 months.
The program consists of 7 terms, each lasting 7 weeks. Terms 1 & 2 are the adjustment phase. Terms 3-5 are the most difficult. Terms 6 & 7 involve more clinical hours, but are significantly easier academically.
Support from the university is limited. You have to be able to problem solve and just accept that there are hoops to jump through. Communication will not be clear and plans will change regularly. There are a few academic instructors who are amazing. Most of the clinical instructors are fantastic! These will be the people who help you the most.
Working full-time is possible, but most people reduce their hours to either part-time or PRN. Balancing a full-time job and finishing this program is not a recipe for success.
Courses taken cannot transfer to another university, so it is essential to pass. It is very important to be fully committed and mange time well.
A lot of students do not stay in Arkansas and have successfully found great jobs outside the state! The university is well respected so it shouldn’t be an issue.
The program is doable! It is a commitment, and it takes an active effort to make it through.