Online Schools and Colleges in Arkansas

For those exploring colleges in Arkansas, the state has more than 40 universities and colleges to choose from, many of which offer online education options to appeal to a more diverse group of aspiring college students. Enrollment in nursing education programs in the state are up, and more Arkansas schools are adding online programs to address local job shortages in highly-educated industries like healthcare. For students interested in learning what online college in Arkansas is all about, get answers to commonly asked questions about online tuition costs and transferring credits and find which top-quality colleges and universities in Arkansas are offering online education for students who need more flexible learning options.

This page highlights some options for online degree seekers in the Natural State. The following sections explore methods for locating online schools and colleges in Arkansas and common elements of distance programs. The guide also covers benefits of online learning, typical tuition rates, financial aid options, and resources for Arkansas learners.

Online schools and colleges in Arkansas include public universities, private institutions, and two-year schools. Researching schools can seem overwhelming, but focusing on institutions that offer specific degrees can make the process more manageable.

The Arkansas Division of Higher Education maintains a database of schools, including a map that displays colleges by area and location. Prospective learners can also search an updated and intuitive directory by clicking the icon below.

Professionals with higher education levels typically have greater salary potential and broader job prospects. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that college graduates benefit from higher median earnings and lower unemployment rates. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Arkansas professionals with a bachelor’s degree earn salaries nearly double those of individuals without a college education. The table below illustrates the correlation between education and earnings for professionals nationwide.

Source: BLS

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

The tables below show the costs of attending college in Arkansas. Tuition rates in the state fall below the national average, according to NCES. Becoming familiar with the typical cost of tuition and fees can help students responsibly cover the costs of attending online schools and colleges in Arkansas. For example, most public institutions offer lower tuition rates than private schools, and in-state learners at public institutions typically pay discounted tuition rates.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

The figures in the tables above do not include additional expenses, such as room and board. They also do not show the cost differences for out-of-state learners. The list below includes additional considerations for learners researching online schools and colleges in Arkansas.

Tuition for in-state learners is often significantly lower than out-of-state tuition rates. Degree seekers must meet certain requirements to qualify for in-state tuition rates.

These requirements typically involve residency specifications and can vary by institution. Learners should contact prospective online schools and colleges in Arkansas to learn whether they qualify for in-state tuition.

Often, learners must have resided within the state for at least one year to qualify for in-state tuition rates. However, some Arkansas schools offer in-state tuition rates to students who have lived in the state for six months.

Scholarships and financial aid opportunities can help offset the cost of higher education. Students can apply these awards toward the cost of tuition, fees, and expenses. Many scholarships and grants are reserved for learners attending online schools and colleges in Arkansas.

Who Can Apply: Candidates must be Arkansas residents pursuing a degree in agriculture and must have at least two semesters of study remaining. Applicants must have a minimum 2.25 cumulative GPA.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: This scholarship supports dependents of Arkansas waterworks and sewage utilities employees. Applicants must provide references and relevant educational information.

Amount: $2,000

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be pursuing a degree in conservation and have at least a 2.25 cumulative GPA.

Amount: Up to $1,500

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be Arkansas residents who have been accepted to an undergraduate program in the state. Candidates must submit official ACT scores.

Amount: Up to $5,000

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be Arkansas residents and must be the child or spouse of an Arkansas veteran. Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA to remain eligible for the award.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: Arkansas residents pursuing formal professional training in medicine, dentistry, or optometry can apply for this grant.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be Arkansas residents and licensed educators within the state. Candidates must have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Amount: Up to $3,000

Who Can Apply: This grant supports Arkansas residents who hold a high school diploma or GED credential. Candidates must complete the application at least 30 days prior to enrollment in a higher education institution.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: Licensed nurses in good standing attending an accredited program within Arkansas can apply for this grant. Candidates must submit a written statement and a current resume.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: Arkansas residents with a valid, active teaching license and outstanding student loans can apply for this funding. Applicants must submit copies of their professional credentials.

Amount: Up to $3,000

Attending an accredited school is crucial to obtaining a credible degree. This is true for both on-campus and online schools and colleges in Arkansas. Accreditation involves review by an independent third party to ensure the institution and its programs meet or exceed standards of excellence.

Accreditation comes in several forms and many institutions may hold a variety of credentials. Prospective learners should familiarize themselves with this process so that they can find reputable schools and programs that meet their specific needs.

This section includes facts and figures relevant to online education, along with a list of programs available to learners attending online schools and colleges in Arkansas.

Learners interested in online schools and colleges in Arkansas can benefit from online resources. Pursuing professional development options can help students and graduates achieve their full potential. Many professional associations offer training initiatives and networking opportunities.

College tuition rates in Arkansas fall well below the national average for both residents and out-of-state learners, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Online programs are an attractive option for many students pursuing educational opportunities in the state. Distance learning is ideal for busy students with personal and professional responsibilities.