2023 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas
Many online colleges in Arkansas are dedicated to preparing students for future employment within the state. Because high tuition costs can be a roadblock for some low-income students, the state of Arkansas has developed the Scholarship Application Management Systems that allows students to conveniently search and apply for financial aid opportunities, including scholarships. There are currently 11 four-year universities in Arkansas involved in this system.
Attending an online degree in Arkansas can save students even more money. According to the Education Data Initiative, online degrees in general cost $10,776 less than in-person degrees. This is one part of the reason why enrolling in an online university continues to be a successful way for students to start a career.
View our methodology for more details about our list or learn more about OnlineU.
List Of Accredited Online Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Tech University | ||
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | 1,676 | $21,754 |
| Arkansas State University | 1,064 | $15,860 |
| University of Arkansas | 934 | $25,872 |
| University of Arkansas - Fort Smith | 674 | $13,026 |
| University of Central Arkansas | 348 | $15,998 |
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | 221 | $17,615 |
| Ouachita Baptist University | 28 | $27,900 |
Arkansas Tech University
- Annual Tuition: $13,236
- Locations: Russellville
- Accreditation: HLC
Arkansas Tech University (ATU) is a public institution located in Russellville, AR. The slate of degrees ATU offers includes nearly 50 completely online programs — ranging from certificates all the way to master's degrees. There are three types of certificates that include certificates of proficiency, technical certificates, and graduate certificates. Along with the standard associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, there are also other options, such as specialist degrees and endorsements. Some examples include a Certificate of Proficiency in Banking Services, a Bachelor's in Business Management, and an Online Teaching Graduate Certificate.
Online coursework is taught through the Blackboard learning management system (LMS), where students can study from a flexible schedule. Online students may take advantage of technical support both for Blackboard and other tech issues.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Annual Tuition: $21,754
- Locations: Little Rock
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) is a public university located in the state capital that specializes in research. Although it's headquartered in Little Rock, they offer dozens of degrees that students can finish 100% online. The three primary levels of degrees are represented in their catalog, including associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. Students may choose to study a wide swath of fields, such as marketing, political science, and social work. Here are a few examples of programs they offer: Master's in Social Work, Bachelor's in Business Administration - Management, and a Workplace Spanish Certificate of Proficiency.
Online students at UA Little Rock use Blackboard to complete their coursework, which is delivered to them on flexible schedules. The college offers financial aid, transparent pricing, and payment plans to increase the affordability of its remote programs.
Arkansas State University
- Annual Tuition: $15,860
- Locations: Jonesboro
- Accreditation: HLC
Arkansas State University (ASU) is a public research institution located in Jonesboro, AR. Their online programs have been available since 2008, making it one of the oldest universities in the state to feature remote learning. They offer over 35 undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate degrees, along with a range of certificates. Students may pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, a Master's in Business Administration, or a Certificate in Android Application Development. Courses within these programs are delivered flexibly through the popular LMS Canvas.
Once enrolled, students may seek support from services such as academic advising, free tutoring in math and writing, and career development assistance from the school's career center. Furthermore, students with Autism Spectrum Disorder are eligible for assistance through ASU's Educare program.
University of Arkansas
- Annual Tuition: $25,872
- Locations: Fayetteville
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Arkansas (UA) is a public university based in Fayetteville, AR. They offer eight options for online programs, which include the traditional bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, along with specialist, certificate, licensure, microcertificate, and minor programs. Within their slate of bachelor's degrees, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Education - Human Resource and Workforce Development Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in English.
UA students use Blackboard to complete their online coursework, which is generally delivered in a flexible format. However, exams are taken remotely through ProctorU and within a scheduled timeframe. Online students may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships with certain programs that feature a reduced in-state tuition cost. Online students are supported with the same resources as on-campus students, which include remote tutoring, coaching, and access to an online student union.
University of Arkansas - Fort Smith
- Annual Tuition: $13,026
- Locations: Fort Smith
- Accreditation: HLC
The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS) is a public institution and member of the University of Arkansas System. Of the school's 128 available programs, only nine of them are offered online. These options include a Bachelor's in Business Administration, an Associate in Early Childhood Education, and a Master's in Healthcare Administration. Students may also pursue a technical certificate or certificate of proficiency in early childhood education.
UAFS students engage in both synchronous and asynchronous learning via the Blackboard LMS. Each course features a combination of class discussions, projects, quizzes, and other assignments. Some exams are available remotely while others require in-person proctoring. Various support options are available for online students.
Overview of Online Education in Arkansas
Since the mid-20th century, the state's economic reliance on farming has diminished, and Arkansas has sought to attract manufacturing and service-sector businesses to the region through tax incentives and other benefits. Notable names that have established business hubs here include Walmart, Frito-Lay, and Amazon. To support this economic growth with a skilled workforce, Arkansas has prioritized advanced education and vocational training.
Today, the Natural State is home to more than 40 institutions of higher learning. These include 10 public four-year universities, 12 private four-year universities, a network of 22 two-year community colleges, and one academic health center. At least one-fourth of these schools offer fully online degrees in a wide array of subjects. A recently enhanced state-wide course transfer system makes it easier for students to begin their college education at a two-year institution before transitioning to one of the four public colleges.
For college options in other locations, view OnlineU's best online college rankings by state or best online colleges by degree level.
How Much Do Online Colleges in Arkansas Cost
Based on data collected from 846 schools across all 50 states, we found that the median annual tuition fee for bachelor's degrees is $13,919. Meanwhile, the median annual tuition fee is $7,680 for the 12 Arkansas schools on our rankings list.
Students may reduce the overall cost of earning a degree by opting for an online education program, as they can be more affordable. Distance learners must still pay for books and supplies — like all students — and may even have to pay additional technology fees. However, they may be able to save on transportation and on-campus living expenses, such as room and board. Many schools charge online students the in-state tuition rate even if they live outside the state.
In recent years, Arkansas has made a demonstrable commitment to educating its future workforce by supporting students with financial aid. The state spends an average of $1,171 annually per student at the undergraduate level, which is higher than the national average of $1,051. Additionally, 19.4% of students at two-year schools receive an average of $4,815 in student loans, while 45% of students at four-year schools receive approximately $6,896.
Although it's not possible to go to college for free in Arkansas, some students may be able to fund nearly all of their tuition through federal and state aid. For example, students may be eligible for the Arkansas Future Grant if they are working toward an associate degree in STEM or another subject related to popular regional industries. Under this program, if a student's combined federal and state financial aid does not cover the full cost of tuition and fees, they may receive a grant for the remaining balance. If students are interested in state-provided financial aid programs, they must submit the Arkansas Division of Higher Education's YOUniversal System application.
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Scholarship Opportunities
Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarships
Awards up to $5,000 are granted to graduates of Arkansas high schools and enrollees of Arkansas colleges and trade schools. Eligibility requirements vary depending on a student's current grade level.
Governor's Distinguished Scholarships
This merit-based scholarship can reach up to $10,000. It’s intended for Arkansas high school students who have earned a minimum score of 32 on the ACT or a combined minimum score of 1410 on the SAT. Additionally, they need at least a 3.5 GPA or they must have been named either a National Merit Finalist or National Achievement Finalist.
Law Enforcement Officers' Dependents Scholarships
Arkansas residents may be eligible for up to four years of tuition, dorm expenses, and other fees if they are the children of public service employees, such as law enforcement officers, who have been killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty.
Licensed teachers and administrators currently working in the Arkansas educational system may further their education with this grant that can reach up to $3,000.
This website offers school details to prospective students as an informational resource. The appearance of a school listing on this website should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the school by this site.
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