Overview

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is a public university in Conway, Arkansas, established in 1907 as the Arkansas State Normal School. Initially created to support teacher education, it played a crucial role in training educators for the state’s public school system. Over time, UCA expanded beyond its original mission, evolving into a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of college degrees. Today, it stands as one of the most prominent colleges and universities in the region.

UCA consists of multiple academic divisions, including liberal arts universities, professional schools, and graduate colleges. The university offers various bachelor’s degrees, teacher programs, and advanced studies such as an Ed.D. and a master’s degree in higher education. With a student population of approximately 12,000, UCA remains a leader in higher education, emphasizing both traditional and innovative college courses across disciplines, including public health colleges and performing arts colleges.

As part of its academic structure, UCA includes a department of education dedicated to training future educators through specialized programs such as the teachers’ bachelor degree. Recognized among state universities, the institution has continued to develop its liberal arts education while expanding its influence in American education.

The university’s campus spans 356 acres, providing a dynamic environment for students pursuing bachelor degree programs, graduate studies, and professional certifications. Its historical significance and commitment to excellence make it a key institution among colleges university systems in the United States.

UCA is also known for its strong emphasis on preparing teachers for teachers, ensuring that graduates from its teacher programs contribute effectively to American university education. With a legacy rooted in academic excellence and continuous growth, UCA stands as a pillar of college education within the landscape of public university systems.

University of Central Arkansas Admissions

The University of Central Arkansas, a recognized public university, has an acceptance rate of 90%. Among applicants who submit test scores, half achieve SAT scores ranging from 940 to 1120 or ACT scores between 19 and 25. A quarter of admitted students exceed these ranges, while another quarter falls below them. The application process follows a rolling deadline.

Admissions officials at this state university prioritize a student’s GPA as a key academic factor. However, high school class rank and recommendation letters are not considered. For more details on academic criteria and institutional data, prospective students can explore College Compass.

University of Central Arkansas Admissions Statistics

Application Deadline: Rolling
Application Fee: N/A
Acceptance Rate: 90%
National Academic Ranking: U.S. News & World Report ranks UCA at 377 (tie)

Colleges and Academic Programs The University of Central Arkansas comprises six distinct colleges, each offering diverse college degrees:

College of Business – Provides associate, bachelor’s, and graduate school opportunities.
College of Education – Prepares students for teacher education and includes the teachers bachelor degree program.
College of Fine Arts and Communication – Offers programs in performing arts colleges and communication fields.
College of Health and Behavioral Sciences – Home to public health colleges and ROTC training.
College of Liberal Arts – Offers a liberal arts education with a focus on bachelor’s degrees.
College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics – Provides multiple science programs, including UCA STEMteach.

UCA is also recognized as one of the nation’s 20 Asian Studies Development Program’s Regional Centers for Asian Studies by the Arkansas Department of Higher Education. Through its international study opportunities, students can take college courses abroad in locations such as Italy, the UK, China, and Africa.

Drama and Theatre Arts UCA, one of the leading liberal arts universities, participates annually in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. The university also hosts the Arkansas High School Audition Day, providing aspiring theater students the opportunity to audition before various arts colleges. UCA Theatre holds accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Theatre.

Tuition and Financial Aid The University of Central Arkansas offers an affordable college education. In-state tuition and fees stand at $10,523, while out-of-state tuition is $18,023, both below the national average. The department of education provides financial aid options, and net costs vary based on income:

$0-$30,000: $13,601
$30,001-$48,000: $14,316
$48,001-$75,000: $16,869
$75,001-$110,000: $18,715
$110,001+: $19,043

Housing and meal plans at UCA cost approximately $9,110. Prospective students interested in bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree in higher education, or a doctoral degree such as an Ed.D. will find a wide array of programs suited to their goals.

As one of the top colleges university options in Arkansas, UCA continues to provide quality higher education through its diverse academic offerings and commitment to student success.

Public Appearances

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA), a prominent state university, houses UCA Public Appearances under its College of Fine Arts & Communication. This division oversees the Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall, a 1,200-seat modern theater, and organizes performing arts programs.

Since its inauguration on September 15, 2000, with a sold-out performance by Ray Charles, the Reynolds Performance Hall has welcomed renowned artists such as Loretta Lynn, Rhonda Vincent, Seth Meyers, Gavin DeGraw, The Temptations, Gladys Knight, Ronan Tynan, The Golden Dragon Acrobats, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons, mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves, and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. It has also showcased performances by national and international touring groups.

UCA Public Appearances operates with a dedicated team, including full-time and part-time staff, along with student workers. The division also manages UCA Ticket Central, which handles ticketing services for non-athletic events, including performances by UCA Theatre, the Conway Symphony Orchestra, and the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre. Funding sources include state support, UCA Performing Arts fees, grants, ticket sales, and donations.

Athletics

As a public university, UCA offers a strong athletic program, with its teams known as the Bears (men’s teams) and Sugar Bears (women’s teams). The university participates in NCAA Division I, competing in the Football Championship Subdivision. In 2021, UCA transitioned from the Southland Conference to the ASUN Conference, forming a football partnership with the Western Athletic Conference under the ASUN-WAC Challenge.

With 17 varsity sports and over 400 student-athletes, the university supports eight men’s teams—baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, and track & field—and nine women’s teams, including basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track & field, volleyball, and beach volleyball.

Greek Life

Greek life at UCA dates back to 1915, offering students opportunities to engage in leadership, networking, and community service. The university hosts 29 Greek organizations, categorized under the North American Interfraternity Conference, National Panhellenic Conference, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Independent Greek Council, and National Interfraternity Music Council.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

UCA, like many liberal arts universities and public health colleges, provides financial aid to support students pursuing college degrees. Aid can be need-based, determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or merit-based, awarded for academic or athletic achievements. The Department of Education administers federal loans and work-study programs, while private loans supplement funding options for some students.

The median federal loan debt for UCA graduates is $20,346, with a typical monthly payment of $216 over ten years at a 5.05% interest rate. Additionally, 6% of students take private loans, averaging $21,842 in debt. The total average loan debt for the 2023 graduating class was $23,559, with 54% of students borrowing.

Scholarships, which do not require repayment, are available based on financial need, academic merit, athletics, community service, or unique skills. Some students receive enough funding to cover tuition and living expenses.

Employment and Career Development

Working while earning a bachelor’s degree program or pursuing graduate school can ease financial burdens. UCA offers work-study programs and on-campus job opportunities. Students can explore employment options through job boards, faculty recommendations, and career counseling services.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) plays a vital role in advocating for student interests. Responsibilities include allocating student activity funds, advising on policies related to college education, collaborating with faculty on student obligations and honors, and overseeing elections. The SGA consists of an Executive Board and representatives from each class, along with graduate senators.

The mission of the SGA aligns with the university’s commitment to student success, reinforcing the idea that students remain the top priority in decision-making at UCA.