Skip to main content

Rector School District

Home of the Cougars

Popular Links

4 - Year University

Explore Four-Year Universities in Arkansas

Planning for life after high school can feel overwhelming, but exploring your college options is an exciting first step. Arkansas is home to a variety of four-year universities that offer strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and opportunities to grow both inside and outside the classroom.

Whether you’re looking for a large research university, a smaller liberal arts college, or a faith-based institution, there’s a school that can match your interests, goals, and learning style. Use the resources below to learn more about each university, check application deadlines, and find the programs that fit you best.

  • 🎓 University of Arkansas – Fayetteville

    If you’re looking for the “big school” experience, Fayetteville is the place to be. With Razorback athletics, Greek life, and over 400 student organizations, campus life is always buzzing. The city of Fayetteville also has a great college-town feel with lots to do.

    • What They’re Known For: Business (Walton College of Business), engineering, architecture, agriculture, and law.

    • Application Deadline: Priority – November 1, 2025 | Regular – February 1, 2026

    • Apply Here: University of Arkansas Application

  • 🏫 Arkansas State University – Jonesboro

    A-State has a strong sense of community and offers plenty of opportunities to get involved, from athletics to student organizations. They also have a growing reputation for research and study abroad.

    • What They’re Known For: Nursing and health professions, teacher education, engineering, business, and creative media.

    • Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (apply by August 1, 2026 for Fall 2026)

    • Apply Here: A-State Application

  • 🌟 University of Central Arkansas – Conway

    UCA has a welcoming atmosphere and a lively campus with more than 200 student groups, Greek life, and strong arts programs. Their campus also has a performing arts center that brings in big shows and events.

    • What They’re Known For: Education, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, and the arts.

    • Application Deadline: July 15, 2026 for Fall 2026

    • Apply Here: UCA Application

  • 🏙️ University of Arkansas at Little Rock

    UA Little Rock is perfect if you like the idea of being in the city. Located in the state’s capital, students have access to internships, jobs, and cultural events right outside of campus.

    • What They’re Known For: Criminal justice, law, business, IT and engineering, nursing, and social work.

    • Application Deadline: August 1, 2026 for Fall 2026

    • Apply Here: UA Little Rock Application

  • ✝️ Williams Baptist University – Walnut Ridge

    Williams Baptist is a smaller, faith-based campus with a strong family atmosphere. Students enjoy close connections with professors, service opportunities, and campus ministries while still having athletics and student life activities to join.

    • What They’re Known For: Christian ministry, education, business, psychology, criminal justice, and nursing.

    • Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (priority scholarship deadline December 1, 2025)

    • Apply Here: Williams Baptist Application

  • 🎓 Harding University – Searcy (Private, Christian University)

    Harding blends strong academics with a faith-based campus culture. Students are active in service projects, campus ministries, and study abroad opportunities. The community is close-knit, but still offers plenty of student life activities.

    • What They’re Known For: Nursing, pharmacy, PT, PA programs, Bible & ministry, business, and education.

    • Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (priority scholarship consideration by November 15, 2025)

    • Apply Here:Harding University Application

  • ✝️ Hendrix College – Conway, AR

    Hendrix is a small, private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and tight-knit campus community. Students get lots of opportunities for research, internships, and study abroad programs, making it a great choice for those who want a personalized college experience.

    • What They’re Known For: Humanities, sciences, business, political science, and fine arts.

    • Application Deadline: Early Decision – November 15, 2025 | Regular – January 15, 2026

    • Apply Here: Hendrix College Application

  • ✝️ Ouachita Baptist University – Arkadelphia, AR

    Ouachita Baptist is a faith-based university with a strong focus on leadership, service, and student engagement. The campus offers active student life, Greek organizations, and athletic programs in a supportive environment.

    • What They’re Known For: Business, education, nursing, Bible & ministry, communication, and performing arts.

    • Application Deadline: Early Action – November 15, 2025 | Regular – January 15, 2026

    • Apply Here:Ouachita Baptist University Application

  • ✝️ Henderson State University – Arkadelphia, AR

    Henderson State is a public university offering a mid-sized campus with a variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. Students benefit from affordable tuition, a supportive community, and opportunities for research and internships.

    • What They’re Known For: Education, business, criminal justice, nursing, and fine arts.

    • Application Deadline: February 1, 2026 for Fall 2026

    • Apply Here: Henderson State Application

  • ✝️ Lyon College – Batesville, AR

    Lyon College is a small liberal arts college with a focus on personalized education, leadership development, and study abroad opportunities. Students enjoy a close-knit community and faculty who are accessible and supportive.

    • What They’re Known For: Humanities, sciences, business, education, and psychology.

    • Application Deadline: Early Decision – November 15, 2025 | Regular – January 15, 2026

    • Apply Here: Lyon College Application