Discover Budget Friendly BSN Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
- 2025 Budget Friendly BSN Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
- Why Little Rock Makes Sense for BSN Students
- Typical BSN Curriculum and Clinical Experiences
- Admission Requirements and Application Tips
- Career Paths and Specializations
- Salary Outlook for BSN Graduates in Little Rock
- Financing Your BSN: Aid, Scholarships, and Cost Control
- Balancing BSN Study with Little Rock Lifestyle
- Accreditation and Program Quality
- Networking and Professional Development
- Local Employment Outlook and Key Employers
- Decision Guide: Selecting Your Budget-Friendly BSN
- Launch Your Nursing Career in Little Rock Today
- Latest Articles & Guides
Little Rock sits at the confluence of the Arkansas River and the Ouachita Mountains, blending small-town charm with a thriving urban core. Home to landmark institutions like the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and an expanding healthcare hub anchored by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock offers nursing students top-notch clinical experiences without the high tuition of larger markets. With a cost of living approximately 10 percent below the national average and numerous community college partnerships, aspiring nurses can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree while preserving financial security. To see how Little Rock compares across the state, explore our Best Nursing Schools in Arkansas rankings.
Whether you're drawn by the state's scenic riverfront trails or the vibrant medical-research community, pursuing a BSN in Little Rock provides an ideal balance of hands-on training and affordability. In the sections that follow, you'll discover program benefits, curriculum details, admission tips, career outlooks, salary data, financial-aid strategies, and local networking resources, all designed to help you select the most budget-friendly BSN track in central Arkansas.
2025 Budget Friendly BSN Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
Looking for budget-friendly BSN programs near Little Rock, Arkansas in 2025? You're in the right place. RegisteredNursing.org has done the homework for you, ranking the most affordable options that don't skimp on quality. Whether you're starting your nursing journey or advancing your career, these programs offer a great balance of cost and education. We understand how important it is to find a program that fits your budget while preparing you for a successful nursing career. Check out our carefully selected list to find the best fit for you. For more details on how we rank these programs, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
University of Central Arkansas
Conway, AR - Public 4-Year - uca.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Arkansas provides an affordable Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, ideal for students aiming for a career in nursing without the burden of excessive debt. This program stands out for its accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a quality education that meets Arkansas State Board standards. Prospective students should note that an ACT or SAT score is required for admission, aligning with the program's commitment to academic readiness. With a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge and practical skills, graduates are well-prepared for licensure and professional practice. The availability of financial aid and scholarships further enhances its affordability, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious students in the Little Rock area.
- Campus-based program
- Accredited by CCNE
- Prepares for licensure
- Hands-on learning focus
- Financial aid available
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
- Meets Arkansas State Board standards
- Practical skills development
- Theoretical knowledge emphasis
- Professional career preparation
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Pine Bluff, AR - Public 4-Year - uapb.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program stands out for its affordability and comprehensive curriculum, designed to tackle the nursing shortage head-on. Offering both Pre-licensure and RN-to-BSN tracks, the program is grounded in AACN standards, ensuring students receive a quality education that emphasizes clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, and leadership. With no specific concentration, the program broadens students' career prospects. Admission may require ACT or SAT scores, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Its HBCU status and partnerships with leading healthcare institutions like Arkansas Children's Hospital enhance its value, providing students with unparalleled practical experiences and job placement opportunities.
- Two nursing program tracks
- Clinically experienced faculty
- AACN curriculum standards
- Robust clinical training
- Leadership skill development
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program Track
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
For registered nurses looking to advance their education affordably, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's RN-to-BSN Program Track offers a hybrid learning model that combines online flexibility with on-campus rigor. This program is tailored for working professionals, requiring a current RN license and a minimum GPA for admission. It focuses on elevating clinical judgment and leadership skills, preparing nurses for advanced roles in healthcare. The program's affordability is complemented by its HBCU heritage, offering a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and meets the evolving needs of the healthcare sector without the need for entrance exams.
- Hybrid learning format.
- For registered nurses.
- Focuses on leadership skills.
- Enhances clinical judgment.
- Requires current RN license.
- Minimum GPA for admission.
- Prepares for advanced roles.
- Experienced faculty.
- Supports professional growth.
- Contributes to healthcare needs.
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The RN-to-BSN Program at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is an affordable, hybrid option for RNs aiming to broaden their expertise in holistic, culturally sensitive care. This program uniquely integrates online coursework with practical experiences, catering to the schedules of working nurses. Admission requires a current RN license, emphasizing a commitment to excellence in nursing practice. The curriculum is designed around evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and healthcare information technology, preparing graduates for leadership in diverse settings. Its affordability, combined with the university's HBCU status, ensures access to quality education without the barrier of entrance exams.
- Hybrid program format.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Leadership and quality improvement.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
- Information technology in healthcare.
- Requires current RN license.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Culturally sensitive care training.
- Admissions require excellence commitment.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - ualr.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers a budget-friendly Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, blending online and on-campus learning to suit various student needs. This hybrid program spans four years, integrating general education with advanced nursing courses and culminating in an online final year, enabling students to work as RNs. With a focus on NCLEX-RN exam preparation and access to a state-of-the-art simulation hospital, students gain hands-on experience. Prerequisite courses are required for admission, but no ACT or SAT is mentioned, making it accessible. Its affordability is attributed to the hybrid format, reducing commuting and housing costs, and its military-friendly status may offer additional financial benefits.
- Hybrid program format
- Four-year curriculum
- Online final year
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- State-of-the-art simulation hospital
- Admission requires prerequisites
- Meets Arkansas licensure requirements
- Combines classroom and clinical learning
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Little Rock, AR - Public 4-Year - uams.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful nursing career. Situated in Little Rock, AR, this program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum requiring 58 semester hours of general education. It features both traditional and accelerated tracks, catering to students at different stages of their academic journey. Accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education underscores its quality. Unique aspects include cutting-edge simulation labs and opportunities for interprofessional collaboration. Prospective students must pass the ATI TEAS exam for admission. The program's affordability is enhanced by available financial aid, making it a budget-friendly option for aspiring nurses.
- Campus-based program
- Accredited by CCNE
- 58 semester hours required
- Traditional and accelerated tracks
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Interprofessional partnerships
- ATI TEAS exam required
- Financial aid available
- Located in Little Rock, AR
Why Little Rock Makes Sense for BSN Students
- Lower tuition rates at Arkansas Tech and community colleges compared to out-of-state or private schools
- Robust clinical partnerships with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Baptist Health, and regional public-health sites
- Seamless credit transfers from ADN or allied-health diplomas into BSN tracks via established articulation agreements
- Access to research-driven labs and simulation centers at UAMS without the premium of a major metro
- Growing healthcare demand: Arkansas projects 15 percent RN growth through 2030, especially in perioperative and public-health roles
Typical BSN Curriculum and Clinical Experiences
Most budget-friendly BSN programs in Little Rock follow a four-year plan combining general education, nursing theory, and more than 700 clinical hours.
| Year | Coursework Highlights | Clinical Settings |
| 1 | Biology, Chemistry, English Composition | Observation rotations at community clinics |
| 2 | Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology, Health Assessment | Skills labs and simulated patient-care scenarios |
| 3 | Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pharmacology | UAMS medical-surgical floors and specialty units |
| 4 | Maternal-Child Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Leadership | Baptist Health obstetrics, Arkansas Children's Hospital pediatrics |
| Capstone | Community-health practicum and leadership project | Rural-health outreach via Pulaski County Public Health |
Visual suggestion: An infographic mapping each course to its paired clinical site, color-coded by specialty, would help visual learners see how classroom concepts translate into patient care.
Admission Requirements and Application Tips
To gain entry into a Little Rock BSN program, applicants typically need:
- High-school diploma or equivalent and completion of prerequisites (biology, chemistry, statistics)
- Minimum GPA of 2.75–3.0 overall, with some programs calculating a separate science GPA
- Standardized test scores from TEAS or HESI A2; see our TEAS Test Review Guide for study strategies and practice plans
- Background-clearance checks (criminal, drug screen, immunizations, CPR/BLS certification)
- Personal statement and references—highlight community service in Arkansas or healthcare volunteer roles
Tip: Shadowing RNs at Arkansas Children's Hospital or volunteering with the Arkansas Nurses Association can strengthen applications by demonstrating local commitment.
Career Paths and Specializations
A BSN opens doors beyond the bedside. In Little Rock, you can advance into:
- Nurse Educator roles teaching future nurses at Pulaski Technical College, see our Nurse Educator overview
- Informatics nursing, bridging clinical practice and IT in UAMS's health information systems; learn more under Nursing Informatics.
- Public health nursing coordinates community outreach with Pulaski County Public Health.
- Leadership tracks in case management or quality improvement through our Expert Guide to Nursing Leadership.
- Specialty certificates (pediatric, critical care) via post-BSN programs at UAMS
Salary Outlook for BSN Graduates in Little Rock
BSN-prepared RNs in central Arkansas earn wages that reflect both regional cost-of-living and specialty demand.
| Experience Level | Little Rock Average Annual Wage* |
| New Graduate (0–1 year) | $60,500 |
| Mid-Career (2–4 years) | $75,200 |
| Seasoned (5+ years) | $88,300 |
*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024. For complete statewide comparisons, see RN Salary – What to Expect.
Financing Your BSN: Aid, Scholarships, and Cost Control
Budget-minded BSN students can leverage:
- Federal aid, Pell Grants, and subsidized Stafford loans via FAFSA
- Arkansas scholarships, the Governor's Distinguished Scholarship, and military-service awards for residents
- Institutional grants, merit and need-based awards at UCA, UAMS, and Pulaski Technical College
- Bridge-program discount: Reduced tuition for RN to BSN transition cohorts; learn more in our Nursing Bridge Programs guide
- Work-study and part-time roles, Positions as phlebotomy techs or CNA trainers in local hospitals
A stacked estimate of 50 percent federal grant, 20 percent state scholarship, 15 percent institutional award, and 15 percent loan can lower net tuition to under $3,000 per year.
Balancing BSN Study with Little Rock Lifestyle
Little Rock's mid-size footprint makes it easy to juggle academics and personal time:
- Campus locations are within 15 minutes of each other, cutting commute stress
- Study-group spots include the Clinton Library's research rooms or scenic River Market cafés.
- Wellness breaks at Pinnacle Mountain State Park help reset before clinical labs.
- Cultural outlets, live theater in the River Market District, or weekend visits to the MacArthur Museum keep you motivated.
Accreditation and Program Quality
Always verify:
- CCNE or ACEN accreditation to ensure transferability and employer recognition
- State Board approval by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing
- First-time NCLEX pass rates above the national benchmark (80 percent+)
- Faculty credentials, including doctorally prepared nurse-educators
Networking and Professional Development
Little Rock BSN students can deepen connections through:
- Arkansas Nurses Association chapter events and annual conferences
- UAMS student-nurse mentorship pairing incoming BSN students with seasoned RNs
- Sigma Theta Tau honor society workshops at UAMS for research and scholarship
- Local health fair volunteering via Pulaski County Public Health
- Online forums for Arkansas BSN cohorts to share job postings, study tips, and CEU opportunities
Local Employment Outlook and Key Employers
Major healthcare employers include:
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) – Level I trauma center and research hub
- Baptist Health Medical Center, Little Rock – Regional flagship with cardiovascular and oncology specialties
- Arkansas Children's Hospital – Pediatric care leader serving five states
- Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System – Federal system offering diverse clinical experiences
- Community clinics like Winrock Health and Pulaski County Public Health for preventive care roles
Decision Guide: Selecting Your Budget-Friendly BSN
When comparing programs, consider:
- Total credit hour requirements and general-education overlap
- Clinical rotation diversity across acute, pediatrics, and community settings
- In-state vs. out-of-state tuition per credit
- Extracurricular support (tutoring, mentorship, career services)
- Articulation agreements for accelerated MSNs or certificates
A side-by-side matrix of these criteria will help you pinpoint the best fit for your learning style, budget, and career goals.
Launch Your Nursing Career in Little Rock Today
By choosing a budget-friendly BSN program near Little Rock, you'll gain high-quality education, extensive clinical exposure, and strong post-graduation support—all at a cost well below the national average. Review prerequisites, application deadlines, and scholarship opportunities now, and take the first step toward a rewarding nursing career in central Arkansas.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Registered Nurses," May 2024.
- Arkansas State Board of Nursing. "Approved Nursing Education Programs," accessed July 2025.
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. "BSN Program Curriculum and Clinical Partnerships," 2024
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