UACCB and UA Little Rock Create Transfer Pathway for Nursing and Education Students

New partnership allows students to complete first two years at UACCB before transferring to UA Little Rock to finish bachelor's degree.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:42am

The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) have signed a memorandum of understanding to create a transfer pathway for students pursuing nursing and education degrees. The agreement allows students to complete their first two years at UACCB before transferring to UA Little Rock to finish their bachelor's degree, taking advantage of lower tuition costs at UACCB and transfer scholarships to reduce the overall cost.

Why it matters

This partnership comes at a critical time as Arkansas faces significant workforce shortages in both nursing and education. By providing a clear and affordable pathway for students, the agreement aims to help address these shortages and support students in high-demand career fields.

The details

The new transfer agreement includes a pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, where students can earn their Registered Nurse credential through UACCB's nursing program and then move directly into UA Little Rock's online RN-to-BSN program. It also creates a clear path for future educators through UACCB's Associate of Arts in Teaching degree, which allows students to transfer to UA Little Rock with junior-level standing to continue working toward their teaching degree.

  • In January 2026, UA Little Rock Chancellor Christina S. Drale and UACCB Chancellor Brian Shonk signed the memorandum of understanding between the two universities.

The players

Christina S. Drale

The chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock).

Brian Shonk

The chancellor of the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB).

Becky Warren

The Dean of Career and Workforce Education at UACCB.

Jeanette Youngblood

The Dean of General Education and Transfer at UACCB.

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What’s next

Students interested in the new transfer pathway can contact UACCB at 870-612-2000 to get started and connect with a Navigator who can guide them through the admissions, financial aid, and transfer planning process.

The takeaway

This partnership between UACCB and UA Little Rock provides a clear and affordable pathway for students to pursue in-demand careers in nursing and education, helping to address critical workforce shortages in Arkansas.