Black River Technical College’s (BRTC) nursing program is experiencing its biggest semester on record. As of Fall 2026, 143 students enrolled across the college’s Registered Nursing (RN), Practical Nursing (PN), and PN-to-RN transition pathway programs. Last fall, the program only had 113 students enrolled.

Whether it is tuition costs, flexibility, or location, BRTC’s Director of Nursing Joshlyn Anderson is thrilled more students are choosing BRTC to get their degree.

“This fall’s record-breaking nursing student enrollment is a powerful reflection of the dedication and heart of our nursing faculty and staff,” Anderson said.

Although growing in size, each entering cohort does have a limit. The RN program accepts 32 new students each fall and spring, PN accepts 32 new students each fall, and PN-to-RN accepts 24 new students each spring. With RN, PN, and transition students moving through the pipeline, multiple capped cohorts are enrolled at once, pushing the overall headcount higher.

“Record enrollment across our nursing programs is clear proof of the trust our students and community place in our institution and nursing faculty,” Dean of Nursing and Allied Health Jason Linam said. “At a time when our regional healthcare system needs skilled, passionate nurses more than ever, we are proud to expand our pipeline and educate the largest class of future healthcare professionals in our school’s history.”

BRTC’s Registered Nursing, Practical Nursing, and Nursing Assistant programs have been recognized as outstanding nursing education programs in the state of Arkansas. These programs educate students by utilizing modern technology and evidence-based practice while emphasizing nursing tradition in order to prepare them to have a positive influence on the ever-changing healthcare system.

For more information about BRTC’s nursing programs, visit BRTC's Nursing page.