Online Schools and Colleges in Arkansas
Earn your Degree 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.
How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I’m Looking for in Arkansas?
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.
How Much More Do College Grads in Arkansas Make?
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.
| Less Than a High School Diploma | High School Diploma | Associate Degree | Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree | Doctoral Degree |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 | $62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Source: BLS
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Paying for Online College in Arkansas: Tuition and Financial Aid
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.
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $7,924 | $20,061 | $8,804 (In-State), $25,657 (Out-of-State) |
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $21,710 | N/A | $29,476 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Cost Considerations for Online Students in Arkansas
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.
Distance Learning Fees
Many schools require fees related to online education and distance learning. Tuition rates usually do not include these fees.
Travel Expenses
Depending on the field, some programs require on-campus orientations and summer cohort meetings.
Recurring Technology Fees
Online schools and colleges in Arkansas sometimes charge recurring technology fees. These costs vary by school and program.
Accelerated Tuition Rates
Learners who pursue accelerated degree-completion paths may pay higher tuition rates.
Textbooks
Tuition rates for online schools and colleges in Arkansas do not include the cost of textbooks and other education-related expenses.
Qualifying for In-State Tuition 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.
Paying for College in Arkansas: Scholarships and Financial Aid
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.
Scholarships for Arkansas College Students
Arkansas Farm Bureau Scholarships
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
Ted and Clara Gentry Memorial Scholarship
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
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Conservation Scholarship
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
Academic Challenge Scholarship
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
Military Dependents Scholarship
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
Grants for Arkansas College Students
Arkansas Health Education Grant
Who Can Apply: Arkansas residents pursuing formal professional training in medicine, dentistry, or optometry can apply for this grant.
Amount: Varies
Teacher Opportunity Program
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
Arkansas Workforce Challenge Grant
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
ARNF Research Grant
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
State Teacher Education Program
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
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Arkansas
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.
Regional and National Accreditation
Regional and national accreditation are the two most common forms of institutional accreditation. Schools with a rigorous academic focus typically receive regional accreditation, the most popular and reputable form. Regional accrediting agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The Higher Learning Commission administers regional accreditation to Arkansas institutions.
Technical, vocational, and for-profit schools typically receive national accreditation. Independent bodies recognized by the ED or CHEA confer this credential. Examples of national accrediting agencies include the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and the American Academy of Liberal Education. Credits and degrees from nationally accredited schools may not transfer to regionally accredited institutions.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Specialized agencies award accreditation to programs and departments within institutions with national or regional accreditation. Subject-specific accreditation illustrates a course of study meets the standards of its field or community. Specialized accrediting agencies include the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the National Architectural Accrediting Board.How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Learners should ensure that prospective institutions hold proper accreditation. Most online schools and colleges in Arkansas publicize their accreditation status. However, the best way to determine a school’s accreditation status is to consult official directories. The Higher Learning Commission maintains a searchable database of regionally accredited schools. The ED hosts a similar directory. CHEA also provides a list of recognized national and specialized accrediting bodies.
Online College and Adult Education in Arkansas
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.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in Arkansas
Of responding online degree seekers, 67% live within 50 miles of their institution.
The number of learners enrolled in online courses increased by 19% between 2012 and 2016.
The outcomes of online programs consistently meet or exceed those of traditional, classroom-based programs.
Adult Education Programs for Arkansas Students
Online College Resources for Arkansas Students
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.
Best Online Colleges and Universities in Arkansas
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.
Ozarka College
Melbourne, AR- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,160
- Out-of-state$4,512
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,170
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
National Park College
- Hot Springs, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,000
- Out-of-state$4,110
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,077
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
NorthWest Arkansas Community College
- Bentonville, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,240
- Out-of-state$3,600
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,383
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University Beebe
- Beebe, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,448
- Out-of-state$4,176
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,317
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
North Arkansas College
- Harrison, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,376
- Out-of-state$4,056
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,676
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas Northeastern College
- Blytheville, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,268
- Out-of-state$3,668
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,562
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University Mountain Home
- Mountain Home, AR
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$2,352
- Out-of-state$3,972
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,325
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
South Arkansas Community College
- El Dorado, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,328
- Out-of-state$4,128
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,443
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Arkansas University Tech
- Camden, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,240
- Out-of-state$4,680
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,102
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana
- Hope, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,310
- Out-of-state$3,360
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,396
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University Three Rivers
- Malvern, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,448
- Out-of-state$4,872
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,151
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University Newport
- Newport, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,448
- Out-of-state$3,840
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,269
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
UA Cossatot
- De Queen, AR
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$2,610
- Out-of-state$3,060
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,519
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College
- North Little Rock, AR
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,020
- Out-of-state$5,250
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,531
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
John Brown University
- Siloam Springs, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$26,458
- Out-of-state$26,458
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled2,319
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas Tech University
- Russellville, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,568
- Out-of-state$11,136
- In-State$5,256
- Out-of-state$10,512
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled11,829
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Harding University
- Searcy, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$20,010
- Out-of-state$20,010
- In-State$13,372
- Out-of-state$13,372
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled4,879
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Arkansas State University
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$13,500
- In-State$4,986
- Out-of-state$9,972
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled13,356
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,568
- Out-of-state$24,056
- In-State$7,752
- Out-of-state$21,032
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled27,559
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Arkansas
- Conway, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,810
- Out-of-state$13,620
- In-State$5,018
- Out-of-state$10,037
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled10,869
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
