Discover Budget Friendly BSN Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
- 2026 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.
2026 Budget Friendly BSN Programs Near Little Rock, Arkansas
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 (UCA) delivers an economical Bachelor of Science in Nursing program strategically located near Little Rock, offering aspiring nurses an affordable pathway to professional healthcare careers. Students can anticipate a comprehensive curriculum accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge development. The campus-based program provides hands-on learning experiences with robust clinical training opportunities. UCA's competitive tuition rates and potential financial aid options make this BSN program budget-friendly for Arkansas residents. Admission requirements include standard academic criteria, and prospective students should prepare for a rigorous academic journey preparing them for nursing licensure and professional practice.
- 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 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 budget-friendly BSN program strategically located in Little Rock, providing exceptional value for aspiring nurses. Students can leverage multiple cost-saving opportunities, including state-funded financial aid and accelerated track options. The program's CCNE accreditation ensures high-quality education while maintaining affordable tuition rates. Requiring 58 semester hours and featuring state-of-the-art simulation labs, students benefit from comprehensive training without excessive financial burden. The ATI TEAS entrance exam allows flexible admission pathways. With interprofessional partnerships and both traditional and accelerated tracks, this program provides an economical route to nursing career advancement. The hospital on campus further enhances practical learning experiences while helping students minimize additional training expenses.
- 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
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 offers an affordable pathway for aspiring nurses, particularly appealing to students seeking budget-friendly education. As a historically black college (HBCU), the program provides cost-effective training with two distinct tracks: Pre-licensure and RN-to-BSN. Students benefit from competitive tuition rates and comprehensive clinical training aligned with AACN curriculum standards. The program's emphasis on clinical judgment and leadership development ensures graduates are well-prepared for competitive healthcare positions. With experienced faculty and robust facilities, students receive high-quality education without excessive financial burden. Entrance requirements likely include standard ACT or SAT scores, making it accessible for diverse student populations.
- 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
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's RN-to-BSN hybrid program presents an economical option for working nurses seeking career advancement. Designed with affordability in mind, the program offers flexible online and on-campus learning, reducing additional expenses associated with traditional education. Registered nurses can complete their bachelor's degree while maintaining employment, minimizing opportunity costs. The curriculum focuses on leadership skills, clinical judgment, and professional growth, providing substantial value for the investment. Admission requires a current RN license and minimum GPA, ensuring a streamlined pathway for professional development. With experienced faculty and a supportive learning environment, nurses can enhance their credentials cost-effectively.
- 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 University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's RN-to-BSN hybrid program offers an affordable and flexible pathway for registered nurses seeking career progression. By blending online coursework with practical experiences, the program minimizes additional expenses while providing comprehensive nursing education. Focusing on holistic, culturally sensitive care and evidence-based practice, students receive high-quality training at a competitive price point. The program's emphasis on leadership, quality improvement, and healthcare technology ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse healthcare settings. With a current RN license requirement and commitment to excellence, nurses can advance their professional skills without significant financial strain, making it an attractive, budget-friendly educational option.
- 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.
National Park College
Hot Springs, AR - Public 2-Year - np.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
National Park College offers an innovative Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree through a strategic partnership with the University of Arkansas at Monticello, making it an exceptionally budget-friendly option. Students can complete their entire four-year nursing education directly on the NPC campus, uniquely earning both an associate and bachelor's degree simultaneously. The program stands out with substantial scholarship opportunities, providing up to $3,000 per semester to help offset tuition costs. This collaborative approach ensures students receive comprehensive nursing education without the financial strain typical of traditional programs. Students benefit from a flexible learning environment that prioritizes affordability and academic excellence in preparing future nursing professionals.
- Four-year nursing degree
- Full program on NPC campus
- UAM partnership degree
- $3,000 per semester scholarship
- Starts July 2025
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
University of Arkansas at Little Rock's BSN program offers an affordable hybrid nursing education with strategic cost-saving features. Students benefit from a flexible four-year curriculum that combines online and in-person learning, reducing traditional campus expenses. The program's final year can be completed entirely online, allowing students to potentially work as nursing assistants or part-time healthcare workers to offset educational costs. With state-of-the-art simulation facilities and a curriculum aligned with Arkansas licensure requirements, students receive high-quality education without excessive tuition fees. Entrance typically requires prerequisite course completion, and the program prepares students comprehensively for the NCLEX-RN exam, making it an economically smart choice for aspiring registered nurses in the Little Rock area.
- 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
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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