Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas 2025
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.
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas in 2025
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.
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arkansas
- #21 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #1 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025
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: $36,650Expenses: $18,794Starting Salary: $44,500Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hendrix College known for?
Hendrix College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Chemistry
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Religious Studies
- Biology
- Sociology
- Economics
- Psychology
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
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 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #6 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #7 Most Affordable 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: $9,019Expenses: $14,312Starting Salary: $30,600Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #8 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024
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: $7,572Expenses: $20,956Starting Salary: $40,400Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Henderson State University known for?
Henderson State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
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.
- #3 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #9 Best Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #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: $30,832Expenses: $13,878Starting Salary: $55,400Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is John Brown University known for?
John Brown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Communications
- Nursing
- Philosophy
- Business
- Education
- Literature
- Biology
- Engineering
- Computer Science
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.
- #6 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #10 Best 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: $8,868Expenses: $14,230Starting Salary: $35,800Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Arkansas at Monticello known for?
University of Arkansas at Monticello’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Medical
- History
- Engineering
- Education
- Communications
- Sociology
- Political Science
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.
- #7 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Arkansas
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: $9,820Expenses: $15,820Starting Salary: $39,000Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southern Arkansas University known for?
Southern Arkansas University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Biology
- Business
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Education
- Engineering
- History
- Psychology
- Physics
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
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #3 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas 2024
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: $32,480Expenses: $15,018Starting Salary: $46,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Ouachita Baptist University known for?
Ouachita Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
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
- #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Arkansas 2025 #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Arkansas 2025
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: $8,508Expenses: $15,186Starting Salary: $38,600Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Arkansas Tech University known for?
Arkansas Tech University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Earth Sciences
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Business
- Education
- History
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
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
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #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: $13,014Expenses: $15,512Starting Salary: $27,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Arkansas 2025 #9 Best Private Colleges in Arkansas 2024 #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: $8,760Expenses: $14,300Starting Salary: $25,100Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
38%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Lyon College
Cost of Degree: $31,000Expenses: $14,750Starting Salary: $44,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lyon College known for?
Lyon College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Education
- History
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Political Science
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.
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: $25,950Starting Salary: $38,600What is University of the Ozarks known for?
University of the Ozarks’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Education
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Communications
- History
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
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.
Tuition + fees
$6K
Graduation
42%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arkansas–Fort Smith
Cost of Degree: $6,906Expenses: $16,231Starting Salary: $35,000Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
Tuition + fees
$15K
Graduation
31%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Crowley's Ridge College
Cost of Degree: $16,440Expenses: $12,687Starting Salary: $29,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
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: $19,680Expenses: $13,042Starting Salary: $43,000Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
- #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
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
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: $20,330Expenses: $13,540Starting Salary: $36,400Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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.
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.
Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.
