Nursing at SAU Tech

Start Your Career as an LPN or RN

Southern Arkansas University Tech offers comprehensive nursing pathways to help you launch or advance your career in healthcare. Whether you're just starting or you're already a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) ready to become a Registered Nurse (RN), SAU Tech provides the hands-on training, classroom instruction, and clinical experience you need to succeed.

Our Practical Nursing (PN) and LPN-to-RN transition programs are approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing and designed to prepare students to pass the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN exams and enter the workforce with confidence.

Nursing Program Overview

Practical Nursing (LPN Program)

  • Credential Earned: Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing
  • Format: In-person instruction with classroom learning, simulation labs, skills labs, and clinical rotations
  • Licensure: Graduates are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-PN



Registered Nursing (RN Program)

  • Credential Earned: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-RN)
  • Format: In-person instruction with clinical experiences
  • Licensure: Graduates are eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN

Application Timeline: 2025 Admissions Cycle

Application Period:
January 15 – June 2, 2025

To apply, you must:

  1. Complete the SAU Tech general admissions application→
  2. Submit a separate Nursing Program application→
  3. Provide all official transcripts to the admissions office by the June 2 deadline
  4. Take the TEAS Exam for Nursing between January 15 and June 2
  5. Complete all prerequisite courses by August 2025

For a full list of prerequisite courses, refer to the Practical Nursing Degree Plan

About the TEAS Exam

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is required for all Practical Nursing applicants. Testing must be completed within the application window and is used as part of the competitive admission process.

Learn more about preparing for the TEAS exam or schedule your testing through SAU Tech’s testing center.→

Flexible Pathways in Nursing

SAU Tech supports students at different stages of their nursing journey:

  • Certificate of Proficiency in Nursing Assistant (CP) – Entry-level training for CNA roles
  • Technical Certificate in Practical Nursing (TC) – Prepares students to become LPNs
  • Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-RN) – Prepares students to become RNs
  • These stackable credentials allow students to begin working in healthcare and continue their education as they gain experience.

Career Outlook For Nursing

Nursing professionals are in high demand in Arkansas and across the country. According to the U.S. Department of Labor:

  • LPNs are needed in clinics, long-term care facilities, and hospitals
  • RNs qualify for a wider range of clinical roles and higher earning potential

Both career paths offer job stability, flexibility, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Job Outlook

Program Learning Outcomes

SAU Tech’s nursing programs are designed to prepare graduates for employment in healthcare or continued study in nursing and health sciences.



Graduates will be able to:

  • Demonstrate clinical and academic knowledge in the natural and health sciences
  • Apply critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning to patient care
  • Communicate effectively in professional healthcare settings
  • Provide compassionate, culturally competent care to diverse populations

Ready to Begin Your  Nursing Journey?

Questions about the program or application process? Contact our Nursing Department to speak with an advisor today.