Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024

Badge for BEST IN ARKANSAS COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

By Dr. James Barham

Published: Mar 8, 2021
Updated: Aug 7, 2024

Here are the best colleges and universities in Arkansas, categorized into two lists – research universities and liberal arts colleges – to help you find the right kind of school for you.

Top Ten Colleges in Arkansas 2024

University of Arkansas

Most Popular Degrees: Business, Law, and History

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Most Popular Degrees: Earth Sciences, Chemistry, and Medical Sciences

Arkansas State University

Most Popular Degrees: Business, Psychology, and History

Hendrix College

Most Popular Degrees: Literature, Chemistry, and Anthropology

University of Central Arkansas

Most Popular Degrees: Chemistry, Economics, and Mathematics

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Most Popular Degrees: Chemistry, Sociology, and Biology

Harding University

Most Popular Degrees: Religious Studies, Chemistry, and Mathematics

Henderson State University

Most Popular Degrees: History, Literature, and Chemistry

John Brown University

Most Popular Degrees: Psychology, Communications, and Nursing

University of Arkansas at Monticello

Most Popular Degrees: Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics

Table of Contents

We’ve identified 22 colleges and universities in Arkansas that meet our criteria. This list of the top colleges in Arkansas below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Arkansas.

Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024

#1
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville , AR
#1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
69%
Student body
32K
Median SAT/ACT
1125/24
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arkansas
Cost of Degree: $9,748
Expenses: $20,260
Starting Salary: $52,700
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Hailed as a top research university, the University of Arkansas impresses with its academic initiatives and campus amenities.
What we love about the University of Arkansas:
Its School of Law offers comprehensive training through its renowned faculty and hands-on experiences like client clinics and internships.
The University of Arkansas is ideal for students who:
Are looking for transfer scholarships.
The University of Arkansas might not be the best fit for students who:
Would like a small campus community.
University of Arkansas’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration

Degree Concentrations
Accounting
General Business
Supply Chain Management

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Education

Degree Concentrations
Human Resources And Workforce Development Education

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Human Development And Family Sciences

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#2
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock , AR
#2 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
42%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1095/21
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Cost of Degree: $9,617
Expenses: $17,401
Starting Salary: $39,500
Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
With a commitment to student success, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers various learning resources, creative outlets, and community projects.
What we love about the University of Arkansas at Little Rock:
The school’s study abroad program allows students to travel to countries like Spain and Australia.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock is ideal for students who:
Are looking for the best Ph.D. in Computer Science.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer more technical certificate program choices.
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#3
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro , AR
#3 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
53%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1090/22
Career Outlook for degree at Arkansas State University
Cost of Degree: $7,754
Expenses: $18,472
Starting Salary: $36,600
Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Arkansas State University maintains a diverse learning environment that fosters collaboration, growth, and exploration.
What we love about Arkansas State University:
The university provides many scholarship opportunities like the A-State Promise Plus, which covers students’ remaining costs after financial aid.
Arkansas State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for various recreational facilities.
Arkansas State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not enthusiastic about sporting events.
Arkansas State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BAS in Organizational Supervision

Required Credits: 125
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Digital Innovation

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Criminology

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Disaster Preparedness/Emergency Management

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Communication Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Creative Media Production

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BGS in General Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Political Science

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Sociology

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Strategic Communication

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
Nursing: RN to BSN in Nursing

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Psychology

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#4
Hendrix College
Conway , AR
#21 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
69%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1230/26
Career Outlook for degree at Hendrix College
Cost of Degree: $36,650
Expenses: $18,794
Starting Salary: $44,500
Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Offering a large variety of majors and minors, Hendrix College provides comprehensive training that’s anchored on innovation and values.
What we love about Hendrix College:
With over 70 student organizations and interest clubs to choose from, students stay active and have the opportunity to try out unique experiences.
Hendrix College is ideal for students who:
Want to train in wellness centers and sports facilities.
Hendrix College might not be the best fit for students who:
Would like to join fraternities and sororities.
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#5
University of Central Arkansas
Conway , AR
#4 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
50%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
1035/22
Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Arkansas
Cost of Degree: $10,118
Expenses: $15,339
Starting Salary: $42,500
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Supporting its students in every way, the University of Central Arkansas is committed to providing affordable tuition, experiential learning, and engaging campus activities.
What we love about the University of Central Arkansas:
Its Aviation Academy comes with state-of-the-art training areas, multiple licensure programs, and excellent flight instructors.
The University of Central Arkansas is ideal for students who:
Want a large variety of housing options to choose from.
The University of Central Arkansas might not be the best fit for students who:
Aren’t interested in community service.
University of Central Arkansas’s Online Degrees
BBA in General Business

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BBA in Insurance And Risk Management

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BBA in Management Information Systems

Degree Concentrations
Business Analytics

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BGS in General Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#6
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Pine Bluff , AR
#2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
41%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
925/16
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Cost of Degree: $9,019
Expenses: $14,312
Starting Salary: $30,600
Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Standing as one of the oldest black institutions, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff champions innovation and diversity.
What we love about the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff:
Its Aquaculture and Fisheries Center conducts groundbreaking research and collaborates with agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is ideal for students who:
Prefer learning through internships and hands-on activities.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek an economics program.
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#7
Harding University
Searcy , AR
#18 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
69%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1170/24
Career Outlook for degree at Harding University
Cost of Degree: $24,888
Expenses: $14,410
Starting Salary: $47,000
Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Harding University is one of the top Christian universities providing intellectual exploration, spiritual growth, and overall wellness.
What we love about Harding University:
As a veteran-friendly institution, the school provides military members with benefits like tuition discounts and personalized assistance.
Harding University is ideal for students who:
Want to study in a blended learning format.
Harding University might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t want to integrate religious values into their education.
Harding University’s Online Degrees
BA in Bible And Ministry

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: None Reported
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#8
Henderson State University
Arkadelphia , AR
#3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Arkansas 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Arkansas
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
39%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
988/18
Career Outlook for degree at Henderson State University
Cost of Degree: $7,572
Expenses: $20,956
Starting Salary: $40,400
Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Henderson State University offers strong academic programs paired with modern facilities and learning centers.
What we love about Henderson State University:
The university’s Student Support Services (SSS) program offers personalized academic advising, workshops, tutorials, and career counseling.
Henderson State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for an exceptional aviation program.
Henderson State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Want to study theater and performing arts.
Compare school
#9
John Brown University
Siloam Springs , AR
#3 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #5 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Arkansas
Tuition + fees
$30K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
71%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/25
Career Outlook for degree at John Brown University
Cost of Degree: $30,832
Expenses: $13,878
Starting Salary: $55,400
Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
John Brown University offers a wide range of on-campus and online programs paired with Christian teachings.
What we love about John Brown University:
Part-time students may enroll in the school’s online programs, like organizational leadership and cybersecurity, without any credit requirement.
John Brown University is ideal for students who:
Want to study at a Christian university.
John Brown University might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek a mechanical engineering program.
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#10
University of Arkansas at Monticello
Monticello , AR
#5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
39%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arkansas at Monticello
Cost of Degree: $8,868
Expenses: $14,230
Starting Salary: $35,800
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
With world-class laboratories, the University of Arkansas at Monticello places heavy emphasis on collaboration and evidence-based practices through its research projects.
What we love about the University of Arkansas at Monticello:
The school offers a vibrant art community through theater productions, art exhibitions, and musical performances.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello is ideal for students who:
Are looking for an excellent nursing program.
The University of Arkansas at Monticello might not be the best fit for students who:
Do not place as high of a value on collaboration among peers as the university does.
Compare school
#11
Arkansas Tech University
Russellville , AR
#5 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
49%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/20
Career Outlook for degree at Arkansas Tech University
Cost of Degree: $8,508
Expenses: $15,186
Starting Salary: $38,600
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Arkansas Tech University promises a student journey that’s filled with practical learning, mentorship, and personal growth.
What we love about Arkansas Tech University:
The Norman Career Services Center helps students prepare for job interviews and network with potential employers.
Arkansas Tech University is ideal for students who:
Wish to commute to school since the school offers a lounge and lockers for those living off-campus.
Arkansas Tech University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer not to join school fairs and events.
Arkansas Tech University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Management

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Organizational Leadership

Degree Concentrations
Agriculture Business
Child Development
Inter-College
Public Relations
Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Criminal Justice
Agriculture Business
Public Relations
Criminal Justice
Child Development
Inter-College

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice And Criminology

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Emergency Management And Administration

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BFA in Creative Writing

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in English

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in History

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Political Science

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BPS in Professional Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#12
Southern Arkansas University
Magnolia , AR
#6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #7 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
45%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1047/20
Career Outlook for degree at Southern Arkansas University
Cost of Degree: $9,820
Expenses: $15,820
Starting Salary: $39,000
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Known for its affordability, Southern Arkansas University delivers impressive programs taught by renowned educators.
What we love about Southern Arkansas University:
Known as the Muleriders, the school’s athletic team boasts a strong tradition of success in football and baseball.
Southern Arkansas University is ideal for students who:
Would like to join student organizations and Greek clubs.
Southern Arkansas University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer smaller campuses.
Southern Arkansas University’s Online Degrees
BBA/MBA in Business Administration

Required Credits: 150
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#13
Ouachita Baptist University
Arkadelphia , AR
#3 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
72%
Graduation
65%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1110/24
Career Outlook for degree at Ouachita Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $32,480
Expenses: $15,018
Starting Salary: $46,000
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Now in its 30^th year, Ouachita Baptist University integrates faith and career-centered learning in all of its programs.
What we love about Ouachita Baptist University:
99% of its graduates either land a job or pursue advanced education after graduation.
Ouachita Baptist University is ideal for students who:
Want to explore various fields through the DISCOVER program.
Ouachita Baptist University might not be the best fit for students who:
Would rather not attend worship services.
Ouachita Baptist University’s Online Degrees
BA in Organizational Leadership

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Christian Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#14
Arkansas Baptist College
Little Rock , AR
#5 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #9 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #10 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Tuition + fees
$9K
Graduation
8%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Arkansas Baptist College
Cost of Degree: $8,760
Expenses: $14,300
Starting Salary: $25,100
Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Arkansas Baptist College offers affordable programs for various types of students, ranging from high school graduates to adult learners and part-time students.
What we love about Arkansas Baptist College:
Its adult degree programs offer evening and weekend classes to accommodate busy schedules.
Arkansas Baptist College is ideal for students who:
Seek a degree in music performance.
Arkansas Baptist College might not be the best fit for students who:
Would like to participate in intramural sports.
Compare school
#15
Lyon College
Batesville , AR
#6 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
38%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Lyon College
Cost of Degree: $31,000
Expenses: $14,750
Starting Salary: $44,800
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
With a strong liberal arts education, Lyon College fosters a sense of community and honors its Scottish roots through unique traditions and events.
What we love about Lyon College:
The Lyon Education and Adventure Program promotes volunteerism through meaningful projects that benefit local communities.
Lyon College is ideal for students who:
Would like to participate in international exchange programs.
Lyon College might not be the best fit for students who:
Would like bigger class sizes.
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#16
University of the Ozarks
Clarksville , AR
#7 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
41%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1055/21
Career Outlook for degree at University of the Ozarks
Cost of Degree: $25,950
Starting Salary: $38,600
The University of the Ozarks provides a multidisciplinary approach to earning a degree, empowering students to explore new fields and collaborate.
What we love about the University of the Ozarks:
The university offers various outdoor activities like camping, rock climbing, and hiking.
The University of the Ozarks is ideal for students who:
Seek support services like counseling and wellness workshops.
The University of the Ozarks might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer more on-campus dining options.
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#17
Crowley's Ridge College
Paragould , AR
#7 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Graduation
31%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Crowley's Ridge College
Cost of Degree: $16,440
Expenses: $12,687
Starting Salary: $29,600
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Despite its deep Christian roots, Crowley’s Ridge College is open to students from any background, cultivating a diverse and open learning community.
What we love about Crowley’s Ridge College:
The college offers various ways to reduce tuition costs, including federal grants, state aid, and Christian scholarships.
Crowley’s Ridge College is ideal for students who:
Seek weekly devotional groups and sharing sessions.
Crowley’s Ridge College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer having more education program pathways.
Compare school
#18
University of Arkansas Grantham
LIttle Rock , AR
#3 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #8 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #18 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
25%
Student body
9K
As a top-notch online university, students at the University of Arkansas Grantham have the flexibility to fulfill their coursework on their own schedule and timeline.
What we love about the University of Arkansas Grantham:
Online students are provided a new laptop without any additional cost.
The University of Arkansas Grantham is ideal for students who:
Would like to use their previous credits to earn an online degree.
The University of Arkansas Grantham might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer in-person classroom discussions.
University of Arkansas Grantham’s Online Degrees
BS in Accounting

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Business Administration

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BBA in Financial Planning

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Computer Engineering Technology

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Computer Science

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Electronics Engineering Technology

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Information Systems

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Cybersecurity

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Multidisciplinary Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Multidisciplinary Studies

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Strategic Communications

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Health Information Management

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BSN in Nursing- Rn To Bsn

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#19
Williams Baptist University
Walnut Ridge , AR
#10 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
59%
Graduation
45%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/21
Career Outlook for degree at Williams Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $20,330
Expenses: $13,540
Starting Salary: $36,400
Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
At Williams Baptist University, students experience a Christ-centered education with personalized faculty attention and modern learning facilities.
What we love about Williams Baptist University:
Through the Williams Works Program, students are provided with work opportunities to earn and graduate debt-free.
Williams Baptist University is ideal for students who:
Are interested in farming at Eagle Farms.
Williams Baptist University might not be the best fit for students who:
Plan on pursuing an MBA.
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#20
Philander Smith University
Little Rock , AR
#4 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #9 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025
Other Rankings
- #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$13K
Graduation
30%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Philander Smith University
Cost of Degree: $13,014
Expenses: $15,512
Starting Salary: $27,300
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Philander Smith University has a long-standing tradition of promoting educational access and social justice, allowing students to engage in community service and research.
What we love about Philander Smith University:
Freshmen students get extra help entering college through transition programs and peer mentoring.
Philander Smith University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for leadership training and networking opportunities.
Philander Smith University might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek graduate studies in computer science.
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#21
University of Arkansas–Fort Smith
Fort Smith , AR
#10 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #7 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$6K
Graduation
42%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arkansas–Fort Smith
Cost of Degree: $6,906
Expenses: $16,231
Starting Salary: $35,000
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Aside from its innovative programs, students at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith maintain an active and engaged learning environment.
What we love about the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith:
Its two-year nursing program offers an accelerated pathway that provides a unique curriculum paired with practical training.
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is ideal for students who:
Are looking for workforce training.
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith might not be the best fit for students who:
Seek more payment plan options.
University of Arkansas–Fort Smith’s Online Degrees
BA in Communication

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#22
Central Baptist College
Conway , AR
#9 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
39%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
962/20
Career Outlook for degree at Central Baptist College
Cost of Degree: $19,680
Expenses: $13,042
Starting Salary: $43,000
Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is Central Baptist College known for?

Central Baptist College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Literature
Religious Studies
History
Biology
Education
Business
Medical
Communications
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Build your own college ranking

Arkansas’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

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