CRNA Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas is home to 2 accredited nurse anesthesia programs, spread across State University, Little Rock. These programs award the DNP doctoral degree, with total costs in our directory ranging from $70K to $70K. 2 of the 2 programs carry confirmed COA accreditation review dates (shown on each card below).
Nationally, CRNAs earn an average of about $214,000 per year, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong demand for nurse anesthetists over the coming decade. Every program below is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA), the recognized accrediting body for nurse anesthesia education. For the full national picture, see how to become a CRNA and our salary-by-state guide.
Accredited Arkansas CRNA Programs
Cost and acceptance figures are estimates for comparison; accreditation review dates are sourced from the COA list current as of March 6, 2026. Always verify current details with each program.
How to Choose a CRNA Program in Arkansas
Cost and acceptance rate are easy to compare, but the factors that most affect your success take a little more digging. Weigh each program on:
- Accreditation status — every program here is COA-accredited; check the next review date shown on each card.
- NCE board pass rate — ask each program for its first-time National Certification Exam pass rate.
- Attrition rate — what share of admitted students complete the program (the national average is low, around 4%).
- Total cost vs. cost of living — a lower sticker price in an expensive city may cost more overall.
- Clinical sites — case variety and volume shape the quality of your training.
- Acceptance rate — build a balanced list of reach and realistic programs.
Use our side-by-side comparison tool to line up Arkansas programs against each other, and the GPA calculator to gauge your competitiveness.
Getting Into a Arkansas CRNA Program
Admission requirements are consistent nationwide: a BSN, an unrestricted RN license, a minimum 3.0 GPA (3.4+ to be competitive), and at least one year of critical-care (ICU) experience. Most programs also expect the CCRN and three professional letters of recommendation, and about half require the GRE.
Before applying, you'll need an active Arkansas RN license — contact the Arkansas Board of Nursing for current licensure steps and timelines. Then work backward from each program's deadline using our resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
Arkansas has 2 accredited nurse anesthesia programs, located in State University, Little Rock. All are accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA).
Total program costs in Arkansas range from about $70K to $70K based on our directory data. The most affordable listed option is University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences at $70,000. Confirm current tuition directly with each program.
Arkansas programs award the DNP degree. Both the DNP and DNAP qualify graduates to sit for the National Certification Exam and are treated interchangeably by employers.
Like all U.S. programs, Arkansas schools require a BSN, an unrestricted RN license, a minimum 3.0 GPA (3.4+ competitive), and at least one year of ICU experience. Most also expect the CCRN and strong letters of recommendation. See our full CRNA school requirements guide for details.
CRNA Programs in Other States
Explore nurse anesthesia programs in other major markets: