Guide to Arkansas Colleges - Uncover the Best Option For You
From the Ozark Mountains to the Mississippi, explore Arkansas colleges and find the best option for you.
- By: The College Compass Team
Home to the birthplace of the forty-second president, Bill Clinton, Arkansas boasts a plethora of top-notch higher learning institutions.
From its two public flagships—the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University—to its various faith-affiliated four-year schools like John Brown University, you have an array of options available when choosing your educational path.
With such a wide selection, it’s no wonder many credits earned in Arkansas’ colleges are transferable across state lines.
So whether you’re looking for an academically stimulating program or an education with more hands-on application, there’s a college in this Southern state that’s sure to fit your needs.
Higher Education in Arkansas: Overview & Important Info
- Types of Colleges in Arkansas – Public colleges, Private colleges, Community colleges
- Number of Colleges & Universities by type – Arkansas is home to 11 four-year state colleges, 12 four-year private colleges, and 22 two-year state colleges.
- Number of Students – 149.294 students
- Average tuition cost from the colleges listed – $17446
- Popular student cities, areas, or towns – Fayetteville, Arkadelphia, and Little Rock
The Most Popular Colleges in Arkansas
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
The University of Arkansas is an incredible place to attend college, boasting 27,000 students enrolled both on campus and online.
With degree programs in the sciences, arts, and humanities, as well as engineering, business education, law, and health professions, there are plenty of opportunities for academic growth.
Faculty members at UARK foster a supportive environment that fosters your success through competitive athletics, social activities, research facilities, and more! For a genuinely fulfilling collegiate experience set against stunning natural beauty – choose the University of Arkansas!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$9,656
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business and Marketing
• Finance
• Nursing
• Biology
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR
For over a century, John Brown University (JBU) has provided quality education within its private Christian liberal arts setting.
From offering more than 40 undergraduate majors and concentrations to providing graduate programs in business administration and nursing as well as online courses through the Virtual Learning Center – JBU goes above and beyond for its student body.
The campus offers countless clubs & organizations for exploring interests and unique service learning opportunities such as mission trips abroad or local community projects that promote growth amongst each individual!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$29,720
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s & Master’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Psychology
• Business
• Graphic Design
• Construction Management
• Family and Community Services
Southern Arkansas University
Magnolia, AR
SAU is a university with almost 110 years of academic excellence! With an enrollment of around 5,000 ambitious students and 70+ undergraduate & graduate degree programs in its four colleges: Arts & Sciences; Business; Education; Technology—it stands out for offering unique experiences. Aside from the Higher Learning Commission accreditation that it enjoys, there are plenty of student organizations to bring every corner of campus life alive – including religious groups, service organizations., and frats/sororities, amongst others. SAU also throws some truly memorable events each year, like Homecoming or Family Weekend + Magnolia Invitational Golf Tournament – making sure fun never stops on this college ground!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$15,321
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
40%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Business/Commerce
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Construction Management
Harding University
Searcy, AR
SAU is a university with almost 110 years of academic excellence! With an enrollment of around 5,000 ambitious students and 70+ undergraduate & graduate degree programs in its four colleges: Arts & Sciences; Business; Education; Technology—it stands out for offering unique experiences.
Aside from the Higher Learning Commission accreditation that it enjoys, there are plenty of student organizations to bring every corner of campus life alive – including religious groups, service organizations., and frats/sororities, amongst others.
SAU also throws some truly memorable events each year, like Homecoming or Family Weekend + Magnolia Invitational Golf Tournament – making sure fun never stops on this college ground!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$19,459
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Accounting
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Kinesiology and Exercise Science
• Computer Science
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR
A-State offers an unparalleled educational experience from around the world.
With over 150 undergraduate degrees and graduate programs ranging from business administration, communications, engineering, and nursing – to more specialized courses such as education technology leadership, health service management, or public policy, A-State provides a comprehensive curriculum that supports small class sizes for close interaction between professors & students.
Outside of the classroom, this university cultivates innovation with hands-on experiences, study abroad opportunities, and internships, all complemented by mentoring support & career counseling services – setting today’s graduates up on paths toward success!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$14,189
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Nursing
• Early Childhood Education
• Criminology
• Psychology
• Radiation Therapy
University of the Ozarks
Clarksville, AR
Offering an impressive two centuries of experience in higher education, the University of the Ozarks stands out as a hallmark of academic excellence.
Nestled on 200 acres in Clarksville, Arkansas, and featuring state-of-the-art facilities such as modern classrooms, computer labs, and student housing, this private liberal arts university has something to meet everyone’s educational needs, with more than 30 undergraduate majors and master’s programs available.
Furthermore, you can look forward to small class sizes (12:1 ratio), ensuring that you will receive the attention you need to excel both during your time at UOZK’s campus and beyond graduation day!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$24,950
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
56%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates & Bachelor’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business
• Biology
• Psychology
• Environmental Science
• Studio Arts
Hendrix College
Conway, AR
Hendrix College is a vibrant and energetic community of 1,400 students dedicated to providing academic excellence through rigorous programs in the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and pre-professional studies.
Beyond academics, however, lies an equally impressive campus life rooted in student involvement – boasting dozens of clubs from intramural sports teams to music ensembles as well as annual events such as Masquerade Ball or Homecoming Week!
It also offers several graduate degrees with options like the MBA program or Master’s Degree for Teaching.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$34,750
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor’s & Master’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Foreign Languages, Literature, and Linguistics
• Public Health Education
• Biology
• Psychology
• Studio Arts
Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, AR
Arkansas Tech University is an institution of higher education that offers you the opportunity to choose from over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, engineering, natural sciences, health sciences, and more.
Situated on a 400-acre park-like setting with multiple campuses, ATU provides its 8 thousand plus student population with rigorous academic studies and extracurricular activities, including fraternities/sororities and intramural sports teams – creating a vibrant campus culture for all!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$11,721
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
47%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
• Nursing
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT Paramedic)
• Information Technology
• Mechanical Engineering
University of Central Arkansas
Conway, AR
Situated in the beautiful town of Conway, Arkansas, the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is an outstanding example of a comprehensive liberal arts university. With eye-catching architecture and landscaping, UCA’s buildings are some of the most stunning on any college campus.
The university offers enriching academic programs, such as a Master’s in Science Contemplative Studies, which adds a unique component to its curriculum. This diverse range of majors includes over 115 undergraduate and 66 graduate degrees.
Alongside its renowned academic curriculum, Athletics at UCA has become more competitive due to its Division I status. You can participate in various sports such as baseball, golf, and swimming – there are also many additional sports like cheerleading, equestrian, and rugby club.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$16,554
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
44%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Psychology
• Nursing
• Biology
• Kinesiology and Exercise Science
• Finance
Henderson State University
Arkadelphia, AR
Founded 130 years ago and dubbed “The Harvard of the Ozarks,” this university prides itself on its challenging coursework and strong student support system. The campus exudes an inviting atmosphere, with classic architecture surrounding beautifully maintained grounds – a perfect home for you.
Henderson State offers over sixty Bachelor’s degrees and three graduate programs across a range of fields, seeking to fulfill their mission of preparing you for success while delivering excellence in education.
Despite its long-standing history, HSU keeps proactive with providing world-class experiences beyond a traditional degree – everything from internships to study abroad programs guarantee students leave Henderson State University prepared for life beyond college. Join the legacy today!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$14,902
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
37%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate, Bachelor’s & Master’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Nursing
• Psychology
• Teaching English as a Second Language
• Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies
• Social Work and Youth Services
Arkansas Baptist College
Little Rock, AR
Founded in 1884 in Little Rock, Arkansas, the college combines high academic standards with a commitment to faith and service.
The campus has four academic divisions – Liberal Arts & Sciences, Religious Studies, Business & Professional Studies, and Education and Educational Technology – that helps you develop a commitment to the common good and cultivate qualities that stimulate visionary leadership.
Each division offers undergraduate degree programs designed to give you an edge in your professional life and opportunities for internships in community organizations connected with your respective departments.
The college also has impressive extracurricular activities ranging from athletic teams to student-run organizations.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$16,961
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Not Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
26%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate & Bachelor’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Human Services
• Educational Administration and Supervision
• Public Administration
Lyon College
Batesville, AR
With specialized majors and minors in fields ranging from Accounting to Modern Languages, the college provides a comprehensive education that develops leadership skills, critical thinking, and communication capabilities as graduates prepare for life beyond Lyon College.
Despite a long history of success and tradition, the school also keeps up with modern trends by offering several online courses that allow students to stay ahead of the curve regarding current technologies.
With top-notch faculty members and bright minds eager for knowledge coming together under the same roof, Lyon College is an oasis of learning where the power of truth is unrivaled.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$20,706
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, Not for Profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
52%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificates, Associate & Bachelor’s
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Psychology
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Biology
• Economics
• Mathematics
Disclaimer:
All of the data about acceptance rates, graduation rates, tuition costs, and other relevant details for the list of popular colleges in Arkansas mentioned above is sourced from CollegeScoreCard by the U.S. Department of Education and each college’s respective official website.
Please use the information and data provided only as a general guideline and verify it before making decisions based on it.
Accreditation for Arkansas Colleges
In Arkansas, the Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) is responsible for providing and maintaining accreditation for colleges and universities in the state.
The HECB ensures that institutions meet certain educational standards, such as offering quality coursework and faculty credentials. This accreditation is important for a college’s reputation, as students can be assured that their credits will transfer to other institutions and that the college is reputable.
It is also important for students to verify the accreditation status of a college or university before applying or enrolling in any program.
Things to Consider when Choosing a College in Arkansas
Arkansas has experienced tremendous growth in college enrollment and has become a popular choice among students from all parts of the country.
Reasons to choose Arkansas
- Its stunning views and landscapes, pleasant climate, convenience to major cities, and support systems.
- Academic quality; From the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, ranked in the top five percent of colleges nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, to smaller institutions like Hendrix College, which was listed as one of the top 30 liberal arts schools by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine;
- The colleges and universities in Arkansas offer excellent student housing, health care options, and on-campus activities that are sure to please any college student.
- Arkansas is well-known for its rich tradition in the arts, with a number of popular music venues and art galleries throughout the state.
Student tips for choosing a college in Arkansas
- Consider taking advantage of online or hybrid courses offered by many universities in Arkansas if it fits better with your lifestyle or schedule than traditional on-campus classes do!
- Take advantage of local attractions – Arkansas is home to many exciting destinations, from state parks and museums to restaurants and entertainment venues – explore what your area has to offer during downtime from studying!
- Use study tools like flashcards, practice tests, and other online resources that allow you to review material in an effective way so that it sticks better in your memory when studying for exams or writing essays/papers on topics related to school curriculum content areas.
Campus Life at Arkansas Colleges
Arkansas boasts an impressive assortment of campus resources to help you better manage your academic and extracurricular pursuits. Libraries, such as the University of Central Arkansas’s Torreyson Library and Truman Arnold Student Center or the Williams Library located at Arkansas State University, provide a wealth of materials for you to explore and utilize in your studies.
Additionally, thanks to specialized study spaces and classroom laboratories, you have access to a variety of resources that can help facilitate your development as a professional in various industries.
Recreational facilities also abound across the state’s universities, giving you access to athletic complexes, gyms, game rooms, and other outlets through which you can socially interact with one another or relax from the stress of college life.
For out-of-state students thinking about relocating to Arkansas for college, many universities have programs designed to help them make a smooth transition. Such initiatives cover topics ranging from housing guides and apartment listings to transportation solutions.
With so many opportunities, prospective students can be certain that once they move here for higher education, all the resources they need will be within easy reach!
Financial Aid & Cost of Living
The cost of living in Arkansas is relatively low compared to other U.S. states. According to the Tax Foundation, it is about 7 percent lower than the national average for basic expenses like housing, food, and transportation.
Furthermore, the state government offers a range of programs and initiatives to help you and your families handle the financial burdens associated with higher education.
These include grants and loans from various organizations, such as the Arkansas Department of Higher Education and the Arkansas Student Loan Authority. Additionally, several jobs are available around college campuses, allowing young adults to work in their free time if needed.
As a result, people looking for an affordable place to live while studying have access to plenty of assistance in Arkansas.
FAQ about Arkansas Colleges
The general admissions requirements for colleges in Arkansas are:
- Official high school transcript
- Test scores from the SAT or ACT
- Application form and fee
- Personal essay or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Other required documents include official transcripts from any college previously attended, academic portfolio, resume, etc.
Note: Every college has different admissions requirements, so it is important to check the specific requirements for each one.
The hardest colleges in Arkansas to get into are John Brown University, Harding University, and the University of the Ozarks.
The colleges in Arkansas that accept the majority of their applicants are Arkansas Baptist College, Arkansas Tech University, and the University of Central Arkansas.
Yes, there are several scholarships available for college students in Arkansas. One example is the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, created to help Arkansas students attend a two-year or four-year accredited college or university in the state.Other popular scholarships include the Arkansas Go! Grant Program assists students with tuition and fees each academic year, as well as the Little Rock Promise Scholarship, which supports graduating seniors from public high schools in Pulaski County.
– University of Arkansas
– Arkansas State University
– Harding University
– Hendrix College
– Lyon College
– Arkansas Tech University
– John Brown University
– Southern Arkansas University
Yes, many research opportunities are available to students at Arkansas colleges and universities. For example, the University of Arkansas offers a variety of undergraduate research experiences through its Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URA). You can work on research projects in any discipline alongside faculty members or independently through URA.
Other universities in the state, such as Arkansas State University and Harding University, also offer research experiences for undergraduate students. You can learn about these activities through departments or faculty members at your school. Additionally, many universities are part of collaborative research networks with other schools; this allows students to pursue research opportunities outside their home university.
At many universities, athletic teams are a popular extracurricular activity. The University of Arkansas offers Division 1 teams in football, basketball, track & field, and other sports. Similarly, the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) has teams in various sports divisions, including NCAA Division I FCS football and Division II baseball.
And, for students looking to pursue the performing arts, The Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville hosts various performing arts shows, such as musicals and plays. Additionally, UCA has an active theater program with several performances each year. To get involved in these activities, you can check the university’s website for more information and consider joining one of the many clubs or organizations available.
Summary
Arkansas is a state that holds an abundance of high-quality educational institutions, and the colleges in Arkansas stand out from the rest.
Many colleges in Arkansas offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, with several institutes offering distance learning options.
Furthermore, depending on your chosen degree and program, opportunities are also available to gain credit through internships or cooperative education institutes at some of these schools.
Overall, if you’re looking for a top school that can offer quality education and additional credentials such as professional licensure or certification, look no further than the best colleges in Arkansas!
Editorial Disclaimer
The College Compass is reader-supported and committed to maintaining complete editorial independence. All views expressed are solely ours and are not influenced by any external party. We may include affiliate links in the article, which helps us earn a small commission to support our work. We always have a link to the source for any data or information we include. Learn more about our editorial practices.
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