Accredited Online Colleges in Arkansas

Arkansas stands out in online education with institutions like Arkansas State University, known for its comprehensive online programs, and the University of Arkansas, offering over 100 online degrees across various fields. UA Little Rock excels with high online enrollment and affordable tuition, making education accessible. These colleges, along with others, provide flexible, high-quality options for students nationwide.

Arkansas offers a diverse range of online college programs designed for students seeking flexibility, affordability, and quality education. These institutions cater to working professionals, career changers, and those seeking to complete their degrees. This ranking highlights the top 10 online colleges in Arkansas, evaluated for their program offerings, affordability, and student support.

Ranking Methodology

The rankings were determined based on key factors relevant to online education:

  1. Program Offerings: Variety and relevance of online degrees and certificates.
  2. Affordability: Tuition rates, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
  3. Online Enrollment: Percentage of students enrolled in online programs, indicating institutional focus on distance learning.
  4. Accreditation: Only regionally accredited institutions were included to ensure quality.
  5. Student Support: Availability of academic advising, career services, and technical support for online learners.
    Data was sourced from reputable websites like BestColleges and institutional pages, ensuring a balanced evaluation.

Rankings of Top 10 Online Colleges

  1. Arkansas State University
    • Location: Jonesboro, AR
    • Type: Public
    • Online Enrollment: 67%
    • Tuition: $6,888 (In-State) / $12,744 (Out-of-State)
    • Details: Arkansas State offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, education, and health sciences. Its high online enrollment and affordability make it a leader. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (A-State Online).
    • Why Ranked: Its extensive online programs and competitive tuition secure its top spot.
  2. University of Arkansas
    • Location: Fayetteville, AR
    • Type: Public
    • Online Enrollment: 36%
    • Tuition: $7,666 (In-State) / $26,690 (Out-of-State)
    • Details: The University of Arkansas offers over 100 online programs, including business, engineering, and education. Its research-driven approach enhances program quality. Visit U of A Online for details.
    • Why Ranked: Its vast program selection and strong academic reputation make it a standout.
  3. University of Arkansas at Little Rock
    • Location: Little Rock, AR
    • Type: Public
    • Online Enrollment: 67%
    • Tuition: $6,495 (In-State) / $18,750 (Out-of-State)
    • Details: UA Little Rock provides affordable online degrees in education, health, and business. With 74% of students receiving financial aid, it prioritizes accessibility (UA Little Rock Online).
    • Why Ranked: High online enrollment and affordability make it a top choice.
  4. University of Central Arkansas
    • Location: Conway, AR
    • Type: Public
    • Online Enrollment: 51%
    • Tuition: $7,140 (In-State) / $14,280 (Out-of-State)
    • Details: UCA offers flexible online programs in business, education, and technology. Its UCA Commitment program covers tuition for eligible students (UCA Online).
    • Why Ranked: Its affordability and student support services enhance its appeal.
  5. John Brown University
    • Location: Siloam Springs, AR
    • Type: Private
    • Online Enrollment: 38%
    • Tuition: $28,424 (In-State/Out-of-State)
    • Details: John Brown offers online degrees in business, ministry, and education with a Christian focus. Its personalized approach suits diverse learners (JBU Online).
    • Why Ranked: Its faith-based education and quality programs distinguish it.
  6. Arkansas Tech University
    • Location: Russellville, AR
    • Type: Public
    • Online Enrollment: 57%
    • Tuition: $5,995 (In-State) / $11,989 (Out-of-State)
    • Details: ATU provides 100% online degrees in business, education, and nursing. Its high acceptance rate (96%) ensures accessibility (ATU Online).
    • Why Ranked: Affordable tuition and flexible programs make it a strong contender.
  7. Ouachita Baptist University
    • Location: Arkadelphia, AR
    • Type: Private
    • Online Enrollment: 15%
    • Tuition: $30,500 (In-State/Out-of-State)
    • Details: Ouachita Baptist offers online programs in business and education with a Christian worldview. Its small class sizes ensure personalized attention (OBU Online).
    • Why Ranked: Its niche focus and quality education appeal to specific students.
  8. Ecclesia College
    • Location: Springdale, AR
    • Type: Private
    • Online Enrollment: 26%
    • Tuition: $15,750 (In-State/Out-of-State)
    • Details: Ecclesia College provides online degrees in biblical studies and ministry, emphasizing spiritual growth (Ecclesia Online).
    • Why Ranked: Its affordability and specialized programs make it a unique option.
  9. University of Arkansas Grantham
    • Location: Little Rock, AR
    • Type: Public
    • Online Enrollment: Not Available
    • Tuition: $8,280 (In-State/Out-of-State)
    • Details: UA Grantham offers affordable online programs in technology, business, and health professions. Its flexible, 100% online format suits busy adults (UA Grantham).
    • Why Ranked: Its low tuition and comprehensive offerings make it accessible.
  10. Harding University
    • Location: Searcy, AR
    • Type: Private
    • Online Enrollment: Not Available
    • Tuition: $24,888 (In-State/Out-of-State)
    • Details: Harding offers online degrees in education, ministry, and business with a Christian focus. Its academic excellence is well-regarded (Harding Online).
    • Why Ranked: Its strong reputation and diverse programs round out the list.

Common Questions About Arkansas Online Colleges

Number of Colleges in Arkansas

Arkansas has a variety of higher education options. The state boasts 27 four-year colleges and universities. These include both public and private nonprofit schools. Additionally, there are 29 two-year colleges and universities, also spanning public and private nonprofit institutions. Students can choose from traditional campuses or online programs across Arkansas.

Most Affordable Online College in Arkansas

For those seeking budget-friendly options, Arkansas State University stands out. It's one of the state's largest schools and offers competitive rates. In-state students paid $7,754 for tuition and fees in the 2023-2024 academic year. Out-of-state students faced costs of $13,826.

The University of Arkansas Grantham is another cost-effective choice for online learners. Students at UA Grantham paid $8,280 in tuition for the 2023-2024 year. This rate has remained steady for several years.

Colleges in Little Rock

Little Rock, the state capital, hosts several higher education institutions:

Public Colleges

  • University of Arkansas at Little Rock
  • University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
  • University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College
  • University of Arkansas Grantham

Private Colleges

  • Arkansas Baptist College
  • Philander Smith University
  • Strayer University-Little Rock
  • Baptist Health College Little Rock

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton is also nearby.

Colleges in Fayetteville

Fayetteville is home to the University of Arkansas, the state's largest university with over 30,000 students. Other nearby options include:

  • Ecclesia College (Springdale)
  • NorthWest Arkansas Community College (Bentonville)
  • John Brown University (Siloam Springs)
  • University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Easiest Online College to Enter in Arkansas

Many Arkansas colleges have high acceptance rates. Arkansas Tech University, for example, accepted 96% of applicants in fall 2023. This high rate suggests good chances for admission to this public institution.

  • Tips for succeeding in online classes
  • Financial aid options for Arkansas students
  • Comparing campus vs. online learning experiences
  • Top career paths for Arkansas graduates
  • How to transfer credits between Arkansas colleges

When choosing a college, consider factors like program offerings, cost, and personal goals. Each student's ideal fit may differ.

Further Reading: Cheapest Accredited Online Colleges

Conclusion

Arkansas’s online colleges offer diverse opportunities for students to achieve their educational goals. From large public universities like Arkansas State and the University of Arkansas to smaller private institutions like Harding and John Brown, each provides unique strengths in program variety, affordability, and support services. These institutions ensure accessible, high-quality education for students in Arkansas and beyond.  

References

Related Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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