Most
Popular Colleges in Arkansas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Arkansas combines practical training with knowledge of how organizations operate. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analytics. Students can pursue the degree at popular institutions such as the University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, the University of Central Arkansas, and Harding University. Graduates commonly work as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales managers, operations supervisors, or financial associates across industries throughout the state.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Arkansas offers coursework in developmental psychology, research methods, statistics, cognition, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in communication, assessment, and understanding human behavior through classroom learning and research opportunities. Popular options include the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas State University, the University of Central Arkansas, and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Graduates may pursue roles in human resources, social services, case management, market research, or behavioral support.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Arkansas combines programming fundamentals with problem-solving. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, computer networks, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular in-state options include the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas State University, the University of Central Arkansas, and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Graduates commonly become software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, or cybersecurity specialists in government, healthcare, business, and technology sectors statewide.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Arkansas combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and research methods with supervised field experience. Students can explore programs at the University of Arkansas, University of Central Arkansas, Arkansas State University, and University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or behavioral-health case managers, depending on degree level, licensure, and requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Arkansas offers pathways from associate to bachelor's and advanced degrees, combining classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, maternal-newborn care, and mental health nursing. Graduates become registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or nurse educators, depending on their qualifications. Arkansas study options include the University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Arkansas State University.

Best Colleges in Arkansas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 19,610.0 overall, compared with 31,395.8 for schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, versus 72.78% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 72.78%. Schools receive an average of 4,733.5 applicants, compared with 8,602.9 at top-10% schools; the median number of male applicants is 961.5 and the median number of female applicants is 1,447.0.
• Average test scores are 1,086.54 on the SAT and 22.85 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,808.33. Average enrollment is 412.61 men and 566.44 women.
• The average graduation rate is 50.67%, while the average for schools in the top 10% is 71.3%. The median graduation rate is 46.0% for men and 55.0% for women.
• Among the institutions counted, 12 offer associate's degrees, 17 offer bachelor's degrees, 15 offer master's degrees, and 8 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 18 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation outcomes, admissions selectivity, and enrollment. Consider how the available degree levels and average SAT and ACT scores fit your goals, and compare the overall figures with those for top-10% schools rather than relying on a single measure.

How much does studying at a college in Arkansas cost?

For an Arkansas student, the average reported total cost of studying is $20,377.83. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than the full price of an entire degree: your final cost depends on your program, attendance length, housing, and personal choices.

Other useful Arkansas budgeting benchmarks are average tuition and fees of $18,518, room and board of $10,423.94, and books and supplies of $1,320.86. Because costs vary by campus and living arrangements, check the current estimate for the school and program you are considering. The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, and the University of Central Arkansas in Conway are popular places to begin comparing. Scholarships, grants, commuting, or choosing lower-cost housing may make your plan more affordable. With these figures in hand, you can map out expenses, ask each financial-aid office about support, and feel more confident choosing a route to a degree close to home.

How long does it take to finish college in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree usually takes two. Your timeline depends on your major, course availability, work commitments, and transfer credits. At the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas State University, or the University of Central Arkansas, review your program map early to schedule required classes. You may graduate sooner by using AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or adding courses when manageable. Ask an adviser about prerequisites and course sequencing; online classes can offer flexibility but do not necessarily shorten your degree. The average graduation rate is 50.67%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 71.3%. Rates average 46.5% for men and 53.94% for women. These figures show completion varies, so steady progress and campus support matter. With a practical plan, finishing college in Arkansas can feel achievable and become an exciting next step forward.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Arkansas earn a median alumni salary of about $40,837. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $46,844. These figures offer a useful starting point as you weigh the cost of a degree against the opportunities it may open up.

Whether you study at the University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, or the University of Central Arkansas, your own earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and where you work after graduation. Comparing programs and career paths can help you find a route that fits both your interests and your financial goals.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Arkansas?

The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville is generally the state's largest college by student enrollment. Its broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs draws students from across Arkansas and beyond. For an Arkansas student hoping for a large campus, a wide range of academic options, and plenty of fellow students, it's a natural place to explore.

What is the most popular school in Arkansas?

"Most popular" can mean different things, but the University of Arkansas is a strong answer if you mean broad public recognition and student appeal. It is the state's flagship public university, with a prominent presence in Fayetteville and a lively campus culture. Your best personal fit, though, depends on your intended major, budget, and preferred campus size.

What is the most famous university in Arkansas?

The University of Arkansas is probably the state's best-known university nationally. Its Fayetteville campus is closely associated with the Razorbacks, whose sports teams have a particularly visible following. That name recognition can make the university an exciting option if you want a strong sense of school spirit alongside a large public-university experience.

What is the hardest university to get into in Arkansas?

Harding University is often among Arkansas's more selective four-year institutions, though the answer can shift depending on the year and how selectivity is measured. Acceptance rates alone don't show how well a student fits a school. If Harding interests you, check its latest admissions requirements and consider applying to a balanced mix of colleges.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Arkansas Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers Arkansas students a comparatively affordable option, with total study costs of $14,910. Its 2,005 enrolled students suggest a smaller campus community than many large universities. The school reports a 41% acceptance rate and a 40% graduation rate, useful figures when weighing admission prospects and completion outcomes. Median alumni salary is $39,252. For students seeking a degree in Arkansas, UAPB combines a manageable enrollment with the state's lowest listed cost among these five schools.

Hendrix College, in Conway, gives Arkansas students a small-college setting, with 1,078 enrolled students. Its 72% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its acceptance rate is 56%. Total study costs are $37,850, the highest listed, and median alumni salary is $33,418. As a liberal arts college, Hendrix can appeal to students seeking broad undergraduate study and close campus connections. Compare its higher cost with its graduation outcomes and consider whether Conway suits your Arkansas study plans.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers an urban option in the state capital, with 7,848 enrolled students - the largest enrollment in this group. Its total study cost is $19,620, acceptance rate 59%, and graduation rate 42%. Median alumni salary, $49,241, is the highest reported here. Students considering an Arkansas degree may value access to Little Rock's city environment and the university's broad campus scale. Weigh the salary figure alongside completion rates and your own program and living-cost needs carefully.

Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia offers Arkansas students a private, faith-centered campus community with 1,889 enrolled students. Its graduation rate is 61%, and its acceptance rate is 68%, giving applicants useful context for admission and completion. Total study costs are $33,780, while median alumni salary is $41,977. Students comparing Arkansas colleges can consider Ouachita for its smaller enrollment and Christian identity, then compare the higher cost with their financial aid options, desired campus culture, and intended degree program before deciding.

Harding University, located in Searcy, provides Arkansas students a Christian university setting and enrolls 4,696 students. Its graduation rate is 69%, while 71% of applicants are accepted. Total study costs reach $25,290, and median alumni salary is $44,655. For students choosing where to earn a degree in Arkansas, Harding offers a middle-ground cost among these five colleges and a relatively strong graduation rate. Review how its campus culture, academic offerings, and total expenses fit your goals, budget, and priorities.