10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Little Rock, AR

If you live in Little Rock, you may be wondering about the colleges and universities in your area. What are some of the best schools, and would they be a good fit for you?

Read on as we discuss the top schools in Little Rock and neighboring towns. We'll also answer questions you may have about how to pay for school and choose the best college for you.

Featured Colleges in Little Rock, AR

Take a look at these 10 schools, all of which are located either in Little Rock, Jacksonville, Conway, or Pine Bluff.

1. University of Arkansas - Little Rock

The University of Arkansas - Little Rock is a part of the University of Arkansas System. It is a public school enrolling a little over 8,000 students.

The school offers a wealth of academic programs for students interested in a variety of fields and professions. Many of these programs can be completed online.

Affordable tuition rates are available for all in-state students.

2. Philander Smith University

Philander Smith University is a small school with under 1,000 students. Located in Little Rock, it is a private school associated with the United Methodist Church.

21 undergraduate majors are offered. The school also offers graduate-level education, professional and continuing education, and dual degree opportunities.

3. Arkansas Baptist College

Arkansas Baptist College is a private school in Little Rock. It has been around since 1884 and enrolls a few more than 500 students.

The school offers several degree and certificate programs in fields such as business administration, religious studies, and human services.

Programs are offered on-campus.

4. Strayer University

Strayer University is a private school with headquarters in Washington, D.C. The school has 64 campuses throughout the U.S., including one in Little Rock.

Though most students at this school study online, those hoping to obtain their degree in person can take campus-based courses.

A variety of degree programs are available.

5. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a public school belonging to the University of Arkansas System. It is located in Little Rock and has around 3,000 students.

The programs at this school focus on health and medical related fields.

Some of the degrees include:

• nursing
• cytotechnology
• dietetics
• physical therapy
• medicine

Both undergraduate and graduate degrees are available, as well as short-term certificates.

6. Park University

Park University is a private school with its headquarters in Missouri; however, it has various other campuses throughout the U.S. One of these is in Jacksonville, not far from Little Rock.

The school is located at Little Rock Air Force Base and accepts some military experience as college credit. Degree programs can be completed online, in person, or in a hybrid format.

Courses and programs are designed to offer the maximum amount of flexibility to serve the needs of busy nontraditional students.

7. Hendrix College

Hendrix College is a private school located in Conway, north of Little Rock. It enrolls around 1,000 students.

The school offers various majors, minors, and pre-professional programs, including the following:

• theatre arts
• politics
• environmental studies
• economics and business
• classics

Students attend traditional classes offered on-campus.

8. University of Central Arkansas

The University of Central Arkansas is a public school located in Conway. It is one of the oldest schools in the state and has more than 11,400 students.

Various degree programs are offered; many are campus-based programs, while others are also offered online.

Graduate and undergraduate degrees are both available, and tuition rates are some of the most affordable in the state.

9. Central Baptist College

Central Baptist College is another school located in Conway. This small private institution enrolls fewer than 1,000 students.

Students can choose from 33 majors and 27 minors, allowing them a broad range of degree options. Academic departments include natural sciences and mathematics, fine arts, business, and behavioral science.

Degree programs are completed on-campus.

10. University of Arkansas - Pine Bluff

The University of Arkansas - Pine Bluff is another campus of the University of Arkansas System. As the name suggests, it is located in Pine Bluff.

This school offers various undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs in agriculture, business, science, art, education, and more.

This school offers some of the lowest tuition rates in Arkansas.

What Is the Biggest School Near Little Rock, AR?

The biggest school in Little Rock is the University of Arkansas - Little Rock, which has more than 8,000 students.

However, the University of Central Arkansas is the largest school near Little Rock, as it enrolls more than 11,400 students.

How to Choose the Right College Near Little Rock, AR

There are a lot of colleges out there. If you're wondering how you're ever going to choose one, you'll want to spend some time figuring out your priorities.

Think about what is most important to you: tuition costs, degree programs, online learning opportunities, or other factors. This will help you determine what you are looking for when you choose a college.

If you have a better idea of your priorities, you will have an easier time comparing schools against each other and picking the one that will best suit your needs.

Paying for Your Degree Near Little Rock, AR

To help you cover your college expenses, consider filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. This form will show whether you are eligible to receive need-based financial aid.

You can also apply for scholarships, which may be offered through your school and various businesses and organizations. If you have a military background, find out whether GI Bill benefits can help you pay for school.

Lastly, check with your employer to find out if the company offers tuition assistance as a benefit, or consider applying to your school's work-study program so you can work off some of your expenses.

Start Your Degree Near Little Rock, AR Today

Check out the Little Rock schools discussed above to find out which one best suits your academic goals, lifestyle, and budget.