Best Colleges in Arkansas

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Best Accredited Colleges

#1 University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR

$15966

62%

The University of Arkansas is the largest postsecondary school in the state. Approximately 28,000 students attend UA, many of whom pursue their credentials entirely online through Blackboard-powered asynchronous classes. Learners in approved distance education programs benefit from in-state tuition. The university offers a variety of funding opportunities, including the W.E. Manning Memorial Scholarship specifically for online students. The program catalog contains bachelor's degrees in accounting, supply chain management, and human resources and workforce development education. Students can tailor their degree plan to their specific career goals by enrolling in the interdisciplinary studies track. UA also offers online nursing degrees, with tracks for working LPNs and RNs. For online graduate students, degree options include electrical engineering, agricultural and food law, and operations management. Candidates may enroll in an innovative master's program for educational equity, developing the skills to support underserved school districts. UA delivers four remote doctoral programs, including credentials for lifelong learning that prepare learners for careers as educational researchers and corporate trainers.

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#2 Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR

$11510

39%

Arkansas Tech University serves approximately 10,000 students at its main campus in Russellville and satellite location in Ozark. The institution also delivers flexible online academic programming through Blackboard Learn. Students may earn a two-year degree in general studies, completing core requirements before transferring into baccalaureate completion programs. ATU delivers five online bachelor's degrees, including an RN-to-BSN track. Undergraduate students can also enroll in remote associate programs for law enforcement and logistics management. The graduate catalog contains remote master's degrees in health informatics, business administration, and homeland security. Learners can also earn a master of science in college student personnel. Spanning two years, this unique program offers the mentorship and field experience candidates need to work as student affairs generalists. First-year students qualify for unconditional admission if they hold a minimum 2.0 GPA and earn either 19 on the ACT or 990 on the SAT. Graduate candidates need at least a 2.5 GPA. Financial aid opportunities include major-based awards for incoming freshmen and tuition waivers for graduate students who reside outside of Arkansas.

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#3 Lyon College

Batesville, AR

$18823

52%

With an average class size of only 15 students, Lyon College is a great choice for prospective learners who want an individualized academic experience. Undergraduates can select from 17 majors, 14 concentrations, and 23 minors. Academic programs include a concentration in military science and a minor in Celtic studies. All degree-seekers complete a robust core curriculum that emphasizes English, history, and the natural sciences. Lyon boasts 14 honor societies for learners who maintain excellent grades. Student life at this Arkansas college also features intramural sports like archery, lacrosse, and disc golf. Learners approaching graduation -- as well as alumni -- can visit the career center to receive resume critiques or practice interviewing skills. Advisors also help students create a personal brand they can present to prospective employers. Lyon requires that applicants submit a high school diploma and ACT or SAT scores. Students interested in college-funded financial aid opportunities should submit the YOUniversal Scholarship Application by the June 1 deadline.

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#4 Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Magnolia, AR

$12333

36%

Southern Arkansas University delivers more than 80 degrees and programs, including undergraduate programs in agricultural sciences like animal science, plant science, and veterinary science. Graduate students can earn a master's in teaching, which qualifies them for an initial Arkansas teaching license. Online education at SAU features more than 30 degree and certificate options. The Honors College at SAU uses a cohort learning model for all four years. Honors students take experiential-learning trips to sites throughout the state and live together at the university's Honors Hall. All Honors College degree-seekers receive an annual stipend of $600 to cover academic expenses. Prospective undergraduates submit high school transcripts or GED scores as well as SAT or ACT scores. Incoming students who earned a score of 30 or above on the ACT automatically receive a Presidential Scholarship, which awards them $5,000 a semester for eight semesters.

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#5 University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR

$8149

29%

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff features over 100 undergraduate majors in fields such as aquaculture, regulatory science, and mass communications. The School of Education offers teacher preparation programs, and the Carolyn F. Blakely Honors Program offers small class sizes and unique educational opportunities. In addition, graduate education at UAPB includes both degrees and continuing education opportunities. Like many excellent Arkansas colleges and universities on this ranking, UAPB participates in the TRIO Program to provide first-generation degree-seekers with additional student services at no extra charge. Learners can visit the university's career center to receive individualized advice. Other career services include job fairs and online career interest surveys. UAPB accepts new students in the fall, spring, summer terms. Application requirements include a high school diploma or GED scores and a minimum score of 19 on the ACT or 980 on the SAT. Institutional scholarships for incoming freshmen award up to $16,500 per year, and transfer students may qualify for up to $5,000 per year.

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#6 University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Fort Smith, AR

$10809

30%

The five colleges and schools that comprise the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith educate over 6,600 students each year. Learners can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in addition to certificates. Notable undergraduate programs at this Arkansas university include rhetoric and writing, editing for clarity, and the history and development of the English language. UAFS offers two graduate programs: a master of science in healthcare administration and a master of education. UAFS boasts seven on-campus advising centers, each of which has a unique mission, such as academic advising or career counseling. Freshmen can access the university's first-year advising center to research majors, select courses, and learn academic success strategies. Additionally, each college features specialized advising services to help students succeed. In addition to high school transcripts or GED scores, undergraduate applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores as well as immunization records. The latter requirement does not apply to online learners. Graduate programs feature unique application requirements. Degree-seekers may qualify for scholarships if they have an excellent high school GPA and standardized test scores.

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#7 Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, AR

$17431

33%

The academic opportunities at Henderson State University include a teachers college with programmatic accreditation from nine organizations. The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs that allow students to specialize in an academic field while fulfilling all requirements for an Arkansas teaching license. Other educational programs at this Arkansas university include undergraduate and graduate degrees in arts, sciences, and business. The Honors College at HSU accepts incoming degree-seekers with an ACT score of 26 or above. As underclassmen, honors students take 12 honors credits in areas like civilization since 1660 and general psychology. Juniors and seniors must complete an honors research project that involves a colloquium and a seminar. Applicants who earned at least a 20 on the ACT can gain unconditional admission. Undergraduate and graduate transfer credits must reflect a minimum 2.0 GPA, and each graduate program uses different application requirements. Academically gifted students may qualify for a Distinguished Freshman Scholarship, which awards $11,000 per year and a housing stipend.

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#8 Central Baptist College

Conway, AR

$16830

22%

Central Baptist College affiliates with the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas. The school's nearly 900 students can select from more than 50 academic programs, including degrees in accounting, middle-level education, and marketing. This Arkansas college also features a specialized program that helps learners earn a bachelor's degree either on campus or online. Additionally, degree-seekers can enhance their program by completing an optional minor. Spiritual life at CBC gives learners many opportunities to reaffirm their faith. Both on and off campus, the college hosts religious services, discipleship groups, and Christian concerts, among other events. Other students activities at CBC include the President's Leadership Council and the Medical Professions Society. Applicants must possess either a high school diploma or a GED certificate and meet CBC's ACT and SAT score cutoffs. Other required admission materials include immunization records, a housing application, and FAFSA results. CBC proudly participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which awards additional financial aid opportunities to active-duty military personnel and veterans.

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#9 Ecclesia College

Springdale, AR

$19665

14%

Based in Springdale, Ecclesia College delivers affordable online academics through Canvas. For students interested in transfer opportunities, EC offers an online associate program in general studies. Bachelor's candidates can pick from majors such as biblical studies and Christian leadership. They can also enroll in a remote leadership program, delving into ethical decision-making practices for the workplace. Additional baccalaureate programs include business administration, which comes with concentrations in management and marketing. Lastly, EC offers an online bachelor of psychology and counseling. Students in this program take courses such as counseling theory, human sexuality, and urban social issues. They round out their studies by completing a counseling practicum and senior research project. Prospective students must submit an online application; all school transcripts; and ACT, SAT, or CLT scores. The school offers an affordable tuition price that ignores residency status. All learners can apply for financial support, including work-learning awards and merit scholarships based on GPA.

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#10 University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, AR

$17455

51%

At University of the Ozarks, degree-seekers can pursue a bachelor's in one of 26 undergraduate majors. Bachelor's programs at this Arkansas college include environmental studies, pre-med, and physical education K-12 licensure. The school also offers minors in various liberal arts fields. All learners receive an iPad with Compass learning software installed. Online students also receive an iPad and can access asynchronous course content through Canvas. Learners can enhance their bachelor's program in many ways. For example, Ozarks boasts study abroad agreements with universities in Ireland, Japan, Argentina, and Spain. Additionally, as the university affiliates with the Presbyterian Church, it features many Christian student groups, including Faith Exploration, Interfaith Relationships, and Presbyterian Connection. Applicants must have a high school diploma and submit ACT or SAT scores. Prospective students can provide two recommendation letters or a writing sample in place of fulfilling the test score requirement. Scholarships award up to $18,500 per year. Students can also participate in an on-campus work-study program.

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#11 Crowley's Ridge College

Paragould, AR

$13889

24%

Crowley's Ridge College emphasizes academic scholarship, spiritual enrichment, and service learning. Students can select from one associate degree and 10 bachelor's degrees in areas such as biblical studies, elementary education, and accounting. Most programs offer minors or several electives that allow students to personalize their degree. Many on-campus courses use digital tools to enhance degree-seekers' educational experience. Athletics make up a significant part of student life at CRC. This Arkansas college hosts six men's and four women's intramural teams, and CRC holds membership in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. Finally, all learners attend religious services once per week and take a Bible course each semester. CRC accepts new degree-seekers in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Applicants must have either a high school diploma or GED certificate. Incoming learners who earned at least a 30 on the ACT qualify for a $10,500 scholarship. This scholarship renews each year as long as recipients maintain a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

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#12 Harding University

Searcy, AR

$19317

67%

Harding University serves over 5,900 students annually, making it the largest private college or university in Arkansas. The school provides comprehensive academic programming on campus through its Searcy location and online through flexible classes facilitated by the Canvas platform. To enroll as a first-year undergraduate, applicants submit an online form; high school transcripts; and ACT, CLT, or SAT scores. Graduate requirements differ by program, but generally include a minimum 3.0 GPA. On top of individual online classes, Harding offers fully online bachelor's programs in leadership management and leadership marketing. The latter track helps students build foundational business knowledge, as well as specialized marketing skills centered on consumer behavior and promotional strategies. Distance learners may also earn a bachelor's degree in Bible and ministry. Harding delivers a fully online master of business administration accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. MBA candidates can earn their credentials in as little as 18 months, or they can take up to seven years to complete the program.

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#13 University of Arkansas at Monticello

Monticello, AR

$11260

23%

At the University of Arkansas at Monticello, students can receive an affordable education while taking advantage of a wide array of resources. Academic offerings at this Arkansas university include certificates, undergraduate degrees, and graduate degrees. The institution consists of 12 colleges and schools, many of which have honor societies. UAM offers career and academic advising, counseling, and tutoring resources. On-campus degree-seekers can also take advantage of the state-of-the-art exercise center. The university's residence halls offer modern amenities including wireless internet, cable, and suite-style bathrooms. New courses start at five points throughout the year, making UAM a great choice for prospective degree-seekers who want to begin a program as soon as possible. Applicants with GED diplomas must possess high school transcripts that reflect six semesters of attendance. New learners submit only one form to apply to all university-funded scholarship opportunities.

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#14 Arkansas State University-Main Campus

Jonesboro, AR

$13420

48%

Situated in Jonesboro, Arkansas State University educates over 14,000 students each year. Bachelor's degrees at this Arkansas university include agricultural studies, electrical engineering, and interdisciplinary - family studies. Online learners can choose from 30 degree and certificate options, and the fully online master's program in teaching qualifies graduates for initial Arkansas teaching licensure. A-State students can visit the Career Management Center to attend job fairs, receive resume critiques, or practice interviewing skills. Other student services include personal and academic counselors who work with learners in one-on-one and small-group settings. A-State requires a minimum 2.75 high school GPA or 600 GED score. Applicants who do not meet this requirement may still gain conditional admission. Incoming degree-seekers without a minimum 21 ACT score must take the COMPASS exam to determine initial English and math course placements. Financial aid opportunities include four institutional scholarships.

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#15 Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, AR

$15917

42%

Williams Baptist University awards undergraduate and graduate degrees in Christian ministries, business, and education through 14 academic departments. The university features one entirely online program -- a bachelor's in criminal justice -- which requires that applicants possess an associate degree. Professors at WBU instruct all courses from a Christian perspective. On-campus students attend religious services each week. WBU also boasts 18 varsity sports and intramural teams, and campus traditions include volunteering, on-campus job fairs, and homecoming in the fall. WBU prefers applicants with at least a 2.6 high school GPA and a minimum score of 20 on the ACT or 1030 on the SAT. The university does not accept GED certificates. Incoming degree-seekers can receive up to $12,000 per year in financial aid if they have excellent ACT or SAT scores.

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#16 John Brown University

Siloam Springs, AR

$22338

73%

Located in Siloam Springs, John Brown University offers quality on-campus academic programs and online degree opportunities. The institution powers its distance education platform with Blackboard Learn. JBU's online undergraduate programs are degree completion tracks that require applicants to transfer at least 45 credits earned with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Regardless of their residency status, all distance learners benefit from the same affordable tuition rate. JBU facilitates tuition discounts through community partnerships. Online bachelor's degrees include psychology and organizational leadership. Students can also earn a liberal arts degree, concentrating the curriculum on either communications or politics and ethics. The former track covers topics such as political communication and marketing principles, preparing candidates to work as digital journalists and freelance writers. Additionally, JBU offers a remote bachelor of business administration program totaling 120 credits. BSBA candidates develop the communication skills and technical knowledge to create data-centered organization strategies for a globalized economy. Graduates may then pursue entry-level occupations or attend graduate business schools.

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#17 Ouachita Baptist University

Arkadelphia, AR

$17934

64%

Named for the river that runs down its eastern campus boundary, Ouachita Baptist University is a private liberal arts institution that provides distance education through the Moodle e-learning platform. Online courses use an accelerated eight-week format, enabling students to maintain a full-time job and still obtain their degree in less time than in a traditional program. In addition to one low tuition price, the university offers funding opportunities such as the Pryor Scholarship for Arkansas residents and the Abbott and Fenner award for out-of-state students. OBU delivers online associate and bachelor's degrees in Christian studies. These programs feature core classes such as biblical preaching, Christian ethics, and advanced Christian ministry. Candidates develop the communication and program planning skills to support their churches as administrators and spiritual leaders. Distance learners can also enroll in a bachelor of interdisciplinary studies program. This completionist track allows students to craft their own degree plan. Alternatively, candidates can choose from designated emphasis areas such as social sciences, kinesiology, professional writing, and business administration.

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#18 University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR

$14005

41%

The University of Central Arkansas supports 11,500 students every year. Learners can earn fully online degrees through asynchronous coursework powered by Blackboard. Undergraduate options include general business, addiction studies, and nursing (RN to BSN). Online students may also earn a bachelor's degree in insurance and risk management. This interdisciplinary program totals 120 credits and enables candidates to focus their studies on areas such as employee benefits, personal financial planning, and property and liability insurance. UCA Online delivers master's programs for geographic information systems and health promotion. Experienced RNs can advance their careers by obtaining graduate credentials in clinical nurse leader and nurse educator with a clinical specialty track. The university also provides an online executive master of arts in sport management that operates accelerated eight-week classes, enabling candidates to earn their degree in 20 months. Admissions criteria differ by program, but undergraduate candidates should expect to meet a minimum 2.0 GPA requirement. Graduate applicants usually need at least a 3.0 GPA. Distance learners enjoy affordable, flat-rate tuition and distinct scholarship opportunities.

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#19 University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, AR

$13404

32%

Established as a junior college in 1927, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock now delivers comprehensive academic programming in many fields. Offerings include affordable online degrees and certificates facilitated by Blackboard. Distance learners benefit from reduced in-state tuition prices based on program. They can also access financial aid, including awards such as the Bernard Osher Foundation Scholarship for nontraditional students pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Learners may take asynchronous online classes alongside traditional on-campus courses to create a hybrid learning experience. Alternatively, they can enroll in fully online bachelor's programs for applied communication, criminal justice, and professional and technical writing. UA Little Rock also provides a nursing completion track for active RNs. Additionally, the university delivers remote bachelor of business administration degrees that enable candidates to pick from concentrations such as accounting, human resource management, and management information systems. Online graduate programs cover fields such as social work, information quality, and rural and urban school leadership. Doctoral candidates can earn a Ph.D. in computer and information sciences. This 75-hour program emphasizes multidisciplinary research centered on information quality assurance and dissemination systems.

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#20 Hendrix College

Conway, AR

$22089

75%

A private college affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Hendrix College educates over 1,300 learners on its Conway campus annually. All students gain a liberal arts education and take interdisciplinary courses that blend liberal arts topics during their freshman year. As learners progress through the four-year program, they select an academic focus, similar to the way students at other colleges select a major. With its unconventional undergraduate curriculum, Hendrix does not offer any online degrees. The learning commons at Hendrix provides students with one-on-one academic advising and tutoring resources, and the college introduces new degree-seekers to student life through a one-week orientation session during the fall semester. Popular clubs and organizations include the Environmental Concerns Committee, the Climbing Coalition, and the Culinary Club. Hendrix does not accept GED certificates. Applicants must submit high school transcripts, recommendation letters, and an essay. The college's Tuition Advantage program provides significant cost savings to academically gifted degree-seekers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best colleges in Arkansas?

Some of the best colleges in Arkansas include the University of Arkansas, Hendrix College, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkansas State University, and Harding University.

2. How do I apply to colleges in Arkansas?

To apply to colleges in Arkansas, you typically need to complete an online application form, submit your high school transcripts, provide standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), write an essay, and obtain letters of recommendation.

3. What majors and programs are offered at Arkansas colleges?

Arkansas colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs, including but not limited to business, engineering, education, nursing, computer science, psychology, biology, and arts and humanities.

4. What is the cost of tuition at Arkansas colleges?

Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program of study. On average, in-state tuition for public colleges in Arkansas is around $8,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition is approximately $20,000 per year. Private colleges tend to have higher tuition rates.

5. Are there scholarships available for Arkansas college students?

Yes, there are various scholarships available for Arkansas college students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or specific to certain fields of study. It is recommended to check with individual colleges and external scholarship programs for more information.

6. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Arkansas colleges?

The student-to-faculty ratio varies among colleges in Arkansas. On average, it ranges from 15:1 to 20:1, meaning there are approximately 15 to 20 students for every faculty member.

7. Are there opportunities for internships and job placements at Arkansas colleges?

Yes, many Arkansas colleges have partnerships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with internship and job placement opportunities. These opportunities allow students to gain practical experience in their chosen field of study.

8. What is the campus life like at Arkansas colleges?

Arkansas colleges offer a vibrant campus life with various student organizations, clubs, and events. Students can participate in sports, join academic or cultural clubs, attend concerts and performances, and engage in community service activities.

9. Can international students apply to colleges in Arkansas?

Yes, international students can apply to colleges in Arkansas. They typically need to meet specific admission requirements, including English language proficiency tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS. It is advisable to check with individual colleges for their international student application process.

10. What support services are available for students at Arkansas colleges?

Arkansas colleges provide various support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring centers, health services, counseling centers, and disability support services. These resources are designed to help students succeed academically and personally during their college journey.