Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025

Badge for BEST IN ARKANSAS LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES

Key Takeaways

  • The best liberal arts colleges in Arkansas offer a great education that will result in a well-rounded, educated person.
  • Arkansas’ liberal arts colleges offer smaller class sizes and more opportunities for interaction with professors.
  • The smaller, intimate environment present in top liberal arts colleges in Arkansas help graduates to mature and gain career skills that can qualify them for leadership positions.

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top schools in our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges in Arkansas witnessed a few key changes. Philander Smith University gained the most ranking positions as the university expanded the STEM and Innovation Center, which offers state-of-the-art labs and research opportunities in fields like computer science, biotechnology, and data analytics. The university has also launched new programs focused on social justice and community leadership, integrating activism and service-learning into the curriculum to foster civic engagement.

Additionally, Philander Smith has upgraded its student support services, providing expanded career counseling, mentorship programs, and mental health resources. These updates highlight the university’s commitment to innovation, community impact, and holistic student support.

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. We’ve identified 17 liberal arts colleges in Arkansas. To be ranked among the best liberal arts colleges in Arkansas, schools must fully accredited institutions.

three college students walking on campus together

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas

  1. #1

    Hendrix College

    Conway , AR
    Other Rankings

    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

    Challenging young minds, Hendrix College’s liberal arts programs are centered on building a strong character, innovation, and hands-on engagement.

    What we love about Hendrix College:

    Guided by award-winning faculty, students in the college’s English Department enjoy lectures and workshops from known directors and authors.

    Hendrix College is ideal for students who:

    Are planning to take up International Journalism.

    Hendrix College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t want to enhance their critical thinking skills.

  2. Other Rankings

    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
    What is University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff known for?

    University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers affordable yet comprehensive liberal arts programs that extend beyond classroom learning, emphasizing research and practical learning.

    What we love about the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff:

    The Center for Biotechnology and Nanosciences aims to expand its research programs, working on vaccines, atomic microscopes, and biotechnology,

    University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is ideal for students who:

    Plan on taking up a Gerontology program.

    University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer having a more urban campus setting.

  3. #3

    Henderson State University

    Arkadelphia , AR
    Other Rankings

    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

    Committed to producing work-ready graduates, Henderson State University boasts a warm community that fosters personal development and professional skills.

    What we love about Henderson State University:

    To provide a safe space for artistic expression, the university organizes events like theater productions, art exhibits, and musical events.

    Henderson State University is ideal for students who:

    Are interested in Digital Media Production.

    Henderson State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to take up an Anthropology degree.

  4. #4

    John Brown University

    Siloam Springs , AR

    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
    What is John Brown University known for?

    John Brown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    John Brown University allows liberal arts students to answer their calling by providing a supportive learning community and various learning services.

    What we love about John Brown University:

    Aside from focusing on academics, students also grow physically through the university’s athletic programs, intramural sports, and fitness centers.

    John Brown University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for assistance in commuting to school.

    John Brown University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Avoid theater productions and events.

  5. 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
    What is University of Arkansas at Monticello known for?

    University of Arkansas at Monticello’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    With experienced instructors, the University of Arkansas at Monticello propels its liberal arts students to succeed through interdisciplinary learning.

    What we love about the University of Arkansas at Monticello:

    The Center for Writing and Communication assists students by providing resources, drafting consultations, and organizing workshops.

    University of Arkansas at Monticello is ideal for students who:

    Are looking into Jazz and Music Studies.

    University of Arkansas at Monticello might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not enthusiastic about literature.

  6. 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
    What is Southern Arkansas University known for?

    Southern Arkansas University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Southern Arkansas University equips its students with the right knowledge and skills to succeed in areas spanning Geography, Social Sciences, and Mass Communication.

    What we love about Southern Arkansas University:

    The university is part of the Academic Partnership in Public Child Welfare that aims to train future social workers and child care advocates.

    Southern Arkansas University is ideal for students who:

    Plan to work in mental health centers.

    Southern Arkansas University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to learn Asian languages, as their language offerings are limited.

    Southern Arkansas University’s Online Degrees

    BBA/MBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 150
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  7. #7

    Ouachita Baptist University

    Arkadelphia , AR
    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

    With a rich academic history, Ouachita Baptist University offers numerous liberal arts programs that emphasize Christian values and ethical leadership.

    What we love about Ouachita Baptist University:

    Students taking up Christian Studies have the unique chance to take up courses in Biblical languages, including Hebrew and Greek.

    Ouachita Baptist University is ideal for students who:

    Require personal guidance from lecturers.

    Ouachita Baptist University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Avoid joining school events and celebrations.

    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
  8. college student holding her textbooks
  9. #8

    Arkansas Tech University

    Russellville , AR
    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
    What is Arkansas Tech University known for?

    Arkansas Tech University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Arkansas Tech University blends liberal arts education with practical learning and personal mentorship to prepare students for meaningful careers.

    What we love about Arkansas Tech University:

    With an interdisciplinary approach, the Master of Liberal Arts program allows graduate students to explore areas outside their field, covering courses in Theater and Sociology.

    Arkansas Tech University is ideal for students who:

    Prefer having the flexibility to choose their courses.

    Arkansas Tech University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Aren’t comfortable studying on a big campus.

    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
  10. #9

    Philander Smith University

    Little Rock , AR

    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
    What is Philander Smith University known for?

    Philander Smith University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Philander Smith University’s learning approach emphasizes critical thinking, encouraging students to tackle complex issues and have an inquisitive mindset.

    What we love about Philander Smith University:

    The school offers part-time positions, both on-campus and its part communities, for students in need of financial help.

    Philander Smith University is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a Bridge Program to jumpstart their college education.

    Philander Smith University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer having more student organization options.

  11. #10

    Arkansas Baptist College

    Little Rock , AR

    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
    What is Arkansas Baptist College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

    Fostering a supportive student environment, Arkansas Baptist College’s excellent liberal arts programs are grounded on Christian values and community awareness.

    What we love about Arkansas Baptist College:

    The Upward Bound program assists individuals with various needs, whether it’s academic assistance, counseling, or skills enhancement.

    Arkansas Baptist College is ideal for students who:

    Prefer to be assisted by an academic advisor.

    Arkansas Baptist College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not comfortable with Christian values being integrated into programs.

  12. #11

    Lyon College

    Batesville , AR

    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
    What is Lyon College known for?

    Lyon College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    One of the best liberal arts colleges in the region, Lyon College maintains its standing through small class sizes, peer mentorship, and holistic activities.

    What we love about Lyon College:

    Journalism students may practice their literary skills outside their classroom by joining The Highlander, the school’s newspaper.

    Lyon College is ideal for students who:

    Are preparing to become Data Analysts.

    Lyon College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Avoid outdoor hiking activities.

  13. #12

    University of the Ozarks

    Clarksville , AR

    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
    What is University of the Ozarks known for?

    University of the Ozarks’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of the Ozarks’s multidisciplinary learning format gives students the flexibility to customize their courses while being guided by advisors.

    What we love about the University of the Ozarks:

    Aside from modern facilities, students are given modern tools, like iPads, to access digital resources and maximize their learning tools.

    The University of the Ozarks is ideal for students who:

    Are interested in study-abroad programs.

    The University of the Ozarks might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not proficient with gadgets.

  14. 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
    What is University of Arkansas–Fort Smith known for?

    University of Arkansas–Fort Smith’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Arkansas–Fort Smith offers affordable liberal arts programs that are taught by dedicated professors, helping students excel professionally.

    What we love about the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith:

    To learn practical skills, Criminal Justice students are given the chance to join internships, job shadowing, and symposiums.

    The University of Arkansas–Fort Smith is ideal for students who:

    Would love to join theater productions.

    The University of Arkansas–Fort Smith might not be the best fit for students who:

    Doesn’t want to be involved in advocacies and training.

    University of Arkansas–Fort Smith’s Online Degrees

    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  15. #14

    Crowley's Ridge College

    Paragould , AR

    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
    What is Crowley's Ridge College known for?

    Crowley's Ridge College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    As a private institution, Crowley’s Ridge College offers a thriving campus that’s centered on discovery, spiritual growth, and community service.

    What we love about Crowley’s Ridge College:

    The college offers a comprehensive Biblical Studies degree that covers youth ministry, Christian leadership, and Biblical History.

    Crowley’s Ridge College is ideal for students who:

    Want to discover their career path through a General Studies program.

    Crowley’s Ridge College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are concerned about high tuition costs.

  16. 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:

    Known for its academic excellence, Central Baptist College’s diverse programs allow students to explore different fields and tailor their pathways to their career goals.

    What we love about Central Baptist College:

    The college offers various ways, such as merit scholarships and state grants, to help students struggling with tuition payments.

    Central Baptist College is ideal for students who:

    Want to explore podcasts through Tower Media.

    Central Baptist College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not enthusiastic about supporting athletic teams.

  17. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    9K

    What is University of Arkansas Grantham known for?

    University of Arkansas Grantham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    As a fully online school, the University of Arkansas Grantham makes sure students get the support they need, from laptops to academic advising and helpful instructors.

    What we love about the University of Arkansas Grantham:

    Students may transfer almost a quarter of their required degree credits through training certifications, courses, and previous work experiences.

    The University of Arkansas Grantham is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for an online degree that can be tailored according to their interests.

    The University of Arkansas Grantham might not be the best fit for students who:

    Plan on getting an English Studies degree.

    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
  18. #17

    Williams Baptist University

    Walnut Ridge , AR

    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
    What is Williams Baptist University known for?

    Williams Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    As a liberal arts university, Williams Baptist University delivers a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, servant leadership, and perseverance.

    What we love about Williams Baptist University:

    The Williams Works program allows students to take on jobs from different fields to become transformational leaders while paying for college.

    Williams Baptist University is ideal for students who:

    Aspire to become Christian musicians.

    Williams Baptist University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to take up a degree in Philosophy.

college students walking on a college campus
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Arkansas’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Your Area of Interest

2023 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.

  1. Hendrix College
  2. Lyon College
  3. Ouachita Baptist University
  4. John Brown University
  5. Henderson State University
  6. Philander Smith University
  7. Southern Arkansas University
  8. University of the Ozarks
  9. Williams Baptist University
  10. Arkansas Tech University

Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.

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