With 52 state parks, laid-back cities, and classic Southern hospitality — Arkansas is a great place to earn a college degree. And thanks to the state’s online colleges, you can take classes with a flexible format.
Even better, online colleges in Arkansas are affordable. With tuition rates lower than the national average, plus a low cost of living, Arkansas appeals to college students.
Whether you already live in Arkansas or you’re considering attending college in the state, get to know Arkansas’s best online colleges.
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Featured Online Programs
These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online bachelor's programs.
Online Colleges in Arkansas
Read About Our Methodology
#1 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
- Jonesboro, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Arkansas State University-Main Campus joins the list of the top online colleges in the nation. The accredited institution's distance learners have 10 online bachelor's programs to choose from. A total of 19 online master's programs are also available.
Arkansas State University-Main Campus enrolls a total of 7,939 distance learners.
An average of 3,461 degree-seekers enroll at the public school located in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Virtual learners complete their courses online from anywhere in the nation. Online enrollees find many student services designed specifically for them. Students can take advantage of the academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services offered by the online school.
The online college's programs are available in many popular majors to appeal to different degree-seekers. Graduates qualify for positions in many different fields with their accredited degree. The institution prioritizes a low-cost education. Undergraduates pay $301 per credit on average, and 97% receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas
Harding University
- Searcy, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Arkansas, Harding University is a private School. Students can enroll in Harding's residential and online undergraduate and graduate programs. Online learners choose from a catalog of 129 online degrees. Enrollees receive a strong liberal arts and professional education. Students complete degrees in various disciplines.
The school offers degrees that blend classroom learning and practical experience, such as internships. Virtual learners may need to complete limited on-campus residencies. Most online degrees require no in-person requirements. Faculty teach using real-world examples. The school’s web-based services include academic tutoring.
Prospective students can expect an admission rate of 61% at Harding University. Students use affordable tuition and financial aid to help pay for college. Online learners pay the same tuition rate regardless of where they live.
The school has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
- Magnolia, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students can earn affordable online degrees at Southern Arkansas University-Main Campus. The school, located in Arkansas, offers a comprehensive catalog of programs. Working professionals pursue the institution’s degrees for career preparation and advancement.
The school’s full- and part-time enrollment options provide learning flexibility. Students benefit from the online program's flexible course schedules. The school offers hybrid programs with in-person and online sessions. Small classes promote personalized learning.
The institution offers five associate degrees and 34 bachelor’s programs. Graduates can choose from 13 online master's programs. Students pay for their degrees with affordable tuition and generous financial aid.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Facts:
Institution Status: public
Online Students: 2,498
Total Online Programs: 16
Degree-Seekers Awarded Aid: 99%
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- Little Rock, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Arkansas at Little Rock's top-ranked online programs make it one of the best online schools. At the public institution, distance learners enroll in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science programs. Many programs offer a fully-online route to a college degree. Online enrollees skip having to commute to the Little Rock, Arkansas name campus and instead earn their degree from the comfort of their home.
Online programs feature virtual learning environments where remote learners communicate with teachers and peers. Programs help participants build career-ready skills through hands-on learning experiences. The school provides distance learners with academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling to support their academic journey.
With undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited online institution meets the needs of diverse students. Degree-seekers meet graduation requirements more easily because of the flexible format.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock At a Glance:
Students Pursuing Online Degrees: 5,209
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Total Number of Online Master's Programs: 12
Students Receiving Aid: 95%
Students Awarded Student Loans: 43%
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Colleges in Arkansas
Arkansas Tech University
- Russellville, AR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
One of the top online schools, Arkansas Tech University's online programs are some of the best. At the public institution, distance learners enroll in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science programs. Students can earn a college degree 100% remotely through many programs.
Online programs feature virtual learning environments where remote learners communicate with teachers and peers. Programs offer hands-on learning experience so participants can practice skills needed for their future careers. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling are available to the school's distance learners to support their academic career.
With programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the accredited online institution meets the diverse needs of its students. The flexible format makes completing graduation requirements easier for degree-seekers.
Arkansas Tech University Numbers:
Total Online Learners: 5,885
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 9
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 96%
Students Awarded Student Loans: 36%
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Price Check
Arkansas tuition rates are $1,000-$8,000 cheaper than the national average, making it a great state for college.
Cost of Living in Arkansas
Living in Arkansas is affordable thanks to the state’s low cost of living. Housing costs for Arkansas residents are an average of 21% less than the national average. For students, this means more affordable housing options off campus.
Tuition rates are also below the national average in Arkansas, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. That helps students save money while paying for college.
How can you save even more? Consider getting roommates, looking for student discounts, and taking advantage of campus transportation and health services.
Cost of Living in Arkansas vs. National Average
| Cost of Living Category |
Compared to National Average |
| Housing (Buy and Rent) |
21% lower |
| Utilities (Monthly) |
2% lower |
| Food |
6% lower |
| Healthcare |
16% lower |
| Transportation |
6% lower |
| Goods & Services |
2% higher |
Source: RentCafe
Arkansas Scholarships
Scholarships and grants are a great way to lower tuition for online colleges in Arkansas. Online students can often qualify for the same scholarships as on-campus students.
You can potentially save thousands by applying for scholarships. Here are some of the best scholarships for Arkansas college students.
The 10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in Arkansas
A college degree can boost your earning potential. In fact, as their education level increases, workers see higher wages and lower unemployment rates, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Many of the fastest-growing careers in Arkansas require a degree. Careers in healthcare, business, and education appear on the list. Roles in these fields require specialized training, typically from an accredited college.
Nurse practitioners, restaurant cooks, fundraisers, and occupational therapy assistants are projected to see the most growth in Arkansas over the next 10 years.
Fastest-Growing Careers in Arkansas 2020-2030
| Job |
Projected Growth |
| Nurse Practitioners |
54% |
| Restaurant Cooks |
52% |
| Fundraisers |
48% |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants |
44% |
| Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers |
43% |
| Operations Research Analysts |
39% |
| Speech-Language Pathologists |
39% |
| Physical Therapist Assistants |
37% |
| Tour and Travel Guides |
37% |
| Preschool Teachers |
36% |
Source: Arkansas Division of Workforce Services
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Arkansas
What is the cheapest online college in Arkansas?
The cheapest online colleges in Arkansas include the University of Arkansas Grantham and Arkansas Tech University. You’ll pay around $8,280 in tuition at UA Grantham, and tuition rates have not increased for several years. Arkansas Tech University charges $8,071 for in-state tuition and offers many online degree programs.
What is the easiest online college to get into in Arkansas?
Many Arkansas colleges report a high acceptance rate. At Arkansas Tech University, for example, 94% of applicants receive an acceptance letter. That means your odds of getting in are high when you apply to this public institution.
How much does online college cost in Arkansas?
The cost of online colleges in Arkansas varies depending on the school and your residency status. Some universities charge a separate fee for online students, while others will charge the same residency-based tuition rates.
On average, you can expect to spend around $8,450 in tuition and fees at public colleges in the state. Private colleges cost an average of $25,000.
Is online college free in Arkansas?
Online college is not automatically free in Arkansas. However, thanks to grants and scholarships offered by the state, you can potentially attend college for free. Check out a list of Arkansas scholarships offered by the state to learn more.
Do I need to be a resident of Arkansas to attend an online college in Arkansas?
No, you don’t need to live in Arkansas to attend an Arkansas online college. However, residents may qualify for tuition discounts at some public institutions. When researching online programs, make sure to check the tuition rates to find an affordable option.
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