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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Baptist Health College Little Rock (BHCLR) continues to see record-high enrollment as the college prepares the next generation of health care professionals across Arkansas. 

When classes commenced on Aug. 17 for fall 2026, nursing enrollment reached a decade high of 599 students, marking the college’s largest turnout in 10 years. This sustained momentum follows last year’s record enrollment numbers and speaks directly to the dedication of the campus community. 

Overall enrollment for fall 2026 reached 723 students, including 124 students enrolled across six allied health programs. 

To better serve students and help meet the growing demand for health care professionals across Arkansas, BHCLR is expanding its academic offerings. The college now offers 10 programs of study, including its first baccalaureate degree and fully online program, the RN-to-BSN program, which was introduced earlier this year and launches in spring 2027.

“It’s exciting to see this growth continue for our college with nearly 600 nursing students filling our classrooms this fall,” said Dr. Crystal Rose, dean of nursing. “January 2027 will be a year full of new beginnings as we expand our program tracks and continue opening doors for the next generation of health care leaders.”

Adding to this growth, BHCLR is also excited to share its newest offering: a nights and weekend track for the Nursing Accelerated program, creating an additional pathway for qualified students seeking to advance their nursing education. Additionally, BHCLR’s Radiography program has transitioned from a certificate program to an associate degree program, marking another important step in the college’s continued growth.

“We extend a heartfelt thank you to our new and returning students for choosing our college to begin their health care journey,” said Dr. Karen James, interim president and dean of allied health. “We are honored to be part of their journey as they invest in their futures and prepare to make a difference in communities across Arkansas.”

For more information about Baptist Health College Little Rock, visit bhclr.edu. 

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health, Arkansas’ most comprehensive health care organization, has provided high-quality care rooted in Christian compassion and innovation for over a century. As the state’s largest private not-for-profit health system, Baptist Health is here For You. For Life. With more than 300 points of access, our extensive network includes 14 hospitals, over 75 primary and specialty care clinics, urgent care centers, a senior living community, and educational programs, including a college for nursing and allied health studies and a graduate residency program. Supported by approximately 12,000 employees and renowned physicians, we deliver groundbreaking treatments and impactful community outreach programs. Baptist Health is proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work and is recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Admired Workplaces. To learn more, visit Baptist-Health.org, call Baptist Health HealthLine at 1-888-BAPTIST or download the myBaptistHealth app. Stay connected with us on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.