Best Nursing Schools in Little Rock (2026 Guide)
Choosing the right nursing school in Little Rock is one of the most important career decisions you will make. With Arkansas facing continued demand for registered nurses, practical nurses, and advanced practice providers, selecting a program with strong NCLEX pass rates, clinical partnerships, and job placement support can significantly impact your long term success.
Key Takeaways
- UAMS is widely recognized as the top-tier nursing institution in Little Rock, especially for BSN and graduate programs.
- Baptist Health College Little Rock offers strong clinical integration and competitive NCLEX performance.
- UA Little Rock is a leading option for affordable BSN pathways and RN to BSN completion.
- Most programs offer ADN, BSN, LPN, or bridge pathways with strong hospital partnerships in Central Arkansas.
- Graduates entering the Little Rock workforce typically earn $55,000 to $70,000+, depending on role and degree level.
Top Nursing Schools in Little Rock Ranked
SchoolPrograms OfferedEstimated Tuition (In-State)NCLEX Pass RateStandout FeatureUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)BSN, RN-BSN, MSN, DNPModerate-HighConsistently HighArkansas' premier academic medical centerBaptist Health College Little Rock (BHCLR)ADN, LPN, Allied HealthModerateStrongDirect hospital system integrationUA Little RockBSN, RN-BSNCompetitiveCompetitiveAffordable public university optionArkansas State University Three Rivers (Little Rock area)ADNAffordableSolidCommunity-college pathway
1. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
Why It Leads
UAMS is Arkansas' flagship academic health science center. Its College of Nursing consistently ranks among the top in the state for research funding, clinical training access, and graduate outcomes.
Program Highlights
- Traditional BSN
- Accelerated BSN
- RN to BSN (online pathway available)
- MSN and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs
Clinical Advantage
Because UAMS operates one of Arkansas' largest teaching hospitals, students gain exposure to trauma care, specialty units, and interdisciplinary collaboration rarely available in smaller programs.
Who It Is Best For
Students seeking advanced degrees, leadership roles, or highly competitive hospital placements will benefit most from UAMS.
2. Baptist Health College Little Rock (BHCLR)
Strong Hospital Pipeline
BHCLR operates within the Baptist Health system. This direct access to hospital resources gives students immediate clinical exposure and potential employment opportunities after graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Practical Nursing (LPN)
- Allied health specialties
Career Outcomes
Graduates often transition directly into Baptist Health facilities. This makes BHCLR a strategic choice for students focused on rapid workforce entry.
Who It Is Best For
Students who prefer hands-on training and a hospital-centered education over a traditional university campus experience.
3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock)
Affordable Public Option
UA Little Rock offers competitive tuition rates for Arkansas residents. Its School of Nursing focuses strongly on community health, leadership, and evidence-based practice.
Program Options
- Traditional BSN
- Online RN to BSN completion pathway
Notable Strengths
- Flexible scheduling for working nurses
- Strong partnerships with regional healthcare facilities
- Accessible admission pathway compared to research institutions
Who It Is Best For
Students seeking affordability and flexibility without sacrificing licensure success.
Understanding Costs and ROI
Tuition varies based on residency, degree level, and program type. Community college ADN programs typically offer the lowest upfront cost. BSN programs at public universities remain cost-effective for in-state students.
Average Nursing Salaries in Little Rock
- Registered Nurse: $60,000 to $75,000 annually
- Licensed Practical Nurse: $40,000 to $50,000 annually
- MSN or NP Graduates: $90,000+ annually
The salary difference between an ADN and BSN nurse tends to widen over time, especially in leadership or specialty positions. Many hospitals increasingly prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses, making bridge programs a smart long-term investment.
NCLEX Pass Rates Matter
NCLEX pass rates indicate how well a nursing school prepares students for licensure. Strong programs consistently perform above state and national averages. When evaluating schools, request the most recent three-year average pass rate data, not just a single year snapshot.
A high NCLEX pass rate often correlates with:
- Selective admissions standards
- Strong clinical mentorship
- Structured exam preparation programs
Admission Requirements Comparison
Typical Requirements
- GPA between 2.75 and 3.5 depending on school
- Prerequisite coursework in biology, anatomy, chemistry
- TEAS exam scores
- Background check and immunizations
UAMS and other BSN programs tend to be more competitive. ADN programs may offer more accessible entry pathways, especially for nontraditional students.
Online and Hybrid Options
Fully online pre-licensure nursing programs are rare due to clinical requirements. However, RN to BSN completion programs at UAMS and UA Little Rock offer flexible online coursework combined with local clinical components.
This is ideal for working registered nurses seeking advancement without leaving employment.
Clinical Partnerships and Job Placement
Little Rock's nursing schools maintain partnerships with institutions such as:
- UAMS Medical Center
- Baptist Health Medical Center
- Arkansas Children's Hospital
- CHI St. Vincent
These partnerships influence internship quality, specialty exposure, and post-graduation employment rates. Schools with direct health system affiliations often provide smoother workforce transitions.
How to Choose the Best Nursing School for You
Step 1: Decide Your Entry Point
Choose between LPN, ADN, BSN, or entering directly into graduate pathways.
Step 2: Compare NCLEX Outcomes
Look for consistent multi-year performance, not isolated successes.
Step 3: Evaluate Total Cost
Include tuition, fees, uniforms, testing expenses, and lost work income.
Step 4: Visit Campus or Attend Info Sessions
Tour labs, speak with instructors, and ask about clinical rotations.
Step 5: Consider Long-Term Goals
If you plan to become a nurse practitioner or leader, starting in a BSN program may accelerate your path.
Nursing Job Outlook in Little Rock
Healthcare remains one of Arkansas' fastest growing employment sectors. An aging population and regional hospital expansions continue to increase the demand for registered nurses and advanced practice providers.
Little Rock offers strong hospital infrastructure, specialty care centers, and opportunities in both acute and community settings, making it a strategic city to begin and grow a nursing career.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Little Rock
What are the main types of nursing programs in Little Rock?
In Little Rock, you can choose from LPN, ADN, BSN, RN to BSN, and graduate programs like MSN and DNP. UAMS, Baptist Health College Little Rock, and UA Little Rock cover most of these options, including bridge pathways for working nurses.
How important are NCLEX pass rates when choosing a school?
NCLEX pass rates are a key indicator of how well a program prepares you for licensure. You should ask each school for its three-year average pass rate and compare it to state and national averages, not just a single strong year.
What is the difference between ADN and BSN programs in Little Rock?
ADN programs, often at community colleges or Baptist Health College Little Rock, usually cost less and take about two years, helping you enter the workforce quickly. BSN programs at UAMS and UA Little Rock take around four years, may open more doors for leadership and specialties, and are preferred by many hospitals over time.
How much can you earn as a nurse in Little Rock after graduation?
In the Little Rock area, new and early-career nurses typically earn about $55,000 to $70,000 or more, depending on role, degree level, and setting. LPNs often make around $40,000 to $50,000, while nurses with an MSN or NP credential can earn $90,000 or higher annually.
Are there online or hybrid nursing programs in Little Rock?
Pre-licensure programs still require in-person clinicals, but you can complete many RN to BSN courses online through UAMS or UA Little Rock. These online or hybrid tracks are designed so you can keep working while you finish your degree.
How do Little Rock nursing schools help with clinicals and job placement?
Local schools partner with major systems like UAMS Medical Center, Baptist Health, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and CHI St. Vincent. These partnerships give you access to varied clinical rotations and can make it easier to move into full-time roles after graduation.
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