Arkansas is home to a diverse range of private colleges and universities, each offering unique educational opportunities to students. These institutions range from small liberal arts colleges to religiously affiliated universities, providing personalized education, strong community values, and a wide variety of academic programs.
Harding University
Harding University, located in Searcy, Arkansas, is the largest private university in the state. Known for its strong Christian identity, Harding offers a variety of academic programs while maintaining a strong commitment to faith-based education. It is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and focuses on integrating faith and learning in every aspect of the student experience.
Overview
- Location: Searcy, AR
- Founded: 1924
- Enrollment: Approximately 4,500 students
- Religious Affiliation: Churches of Christ
Academic Programs
Harding offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs with an emphasis on both professional development and spiritual growth.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Bible and Ministry
- Education
- Engineering
- Graduate Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Education
- Master of Arts in Counseling
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Christian-Based Education
Harding’s curriculum is deeply rooted in Christian values. Every student is required to complete courses in Bible and Christian thought, and there are daily chapel services where the community gathers to worship together.
- Christian Leadership: Many programs at Harding focus on preparing students for leadership roles in ministry, education, business, and other professional fields with a Christian worldview.
Campus Life
Harding provides a vibrant campus community where students engage in both academic and spiritual development.
- Greek Life: Harding offers social clubs instead of traditional fraternities and sororities, all of which are focused on service and community.
- Service Opportunities: Service and mission trips are integral to student life, with many opportunities to participate in international mission work or local outreach programs.
- Athletics: NCAA Division II, Great American Conference (GAC), with strong programs in football, basketball, and track & field.
Notable Alumni
- Ken Starr: Former U.S. Solicitor General and special prosecutor.
- David Burks: Former President of Harding University.
Hendrix College
Hendrix College is a nationally recognized liberal arts college located in Conway, Arkansas. Known for its commitment to hands-on, experiential learning, Hendrix fosters critical thinking, creativity, and global engagement. The college is affiliated with the United Methodist Church but emphasizes a diverse and inclusive campus environment.
Overview
- Location: Conway, AR
- Founded: 1876
- Enrollment: Approximately 1,300 students
- Religious Affiliation: United Methodist Church
Academic Programs
Hendrix offers a wide range of academic disciplines with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and creative problem-solving.
- Undergraduate Majors:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Economics
- International Relations
- Theatre Arts
- Special Programs:
- Odyssey Program: A unique program that requires students to engage in hands-on experiences in areas like service learning, global study, artistic creativity, and undergraduate research.
Experiential Learning Focus
Hendrix is committed to providing students with opportunities for experiential learning both inside and outside the classroom.
- Odyssey Program: Each student completes at least three Odyssey experiences during their time at Hendrix, which may include internships, research projects, or international travel.
- Undergraduate Research: Hendrix encourages students to engage in original research, often working closely with faculty mentors in various disciplines.
Campus Life
Hendrix has a vibrant campus culture that promotes community, creativity, and service.
- Greek Life: There are no traditional fraternities or sororities, but students participate in a range of social and academic clubs and organizations.
- Student Organizations: Hendrix has over 70 student-run organizations, including academic societies, cultural clubs, and arts groups.
- Athletics: NCAA Division III, Southern Athletic Association (SAA), with strong participation in sports like swimming, cross country, and soccer.
Notable Alumni
- Mary Steenburgen: Academy Award-winning actress.
- James S. Faulkner: Prominent physician and medical researcher.
Ouachita Baptist University
Ouachita Baptist University (OBU), located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. OBU is known for its strong sense of community, emphasis on personal faith, and commitment to academic excellence. With small class sizes and a student-centered approach, OBU focuses on developing well-rounded students.
Overview
- Location: Arkadelphia, AR
- Founded: 1886
- Enrollment: Approximately 1,500 students
- Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist
Academic Programs
OBU offers a variety of undergraduate programs in both the liberal arts and professional fields, with a focus on preparing students for leadership roles in their communities and careers.
- Popular Majors:
- Business Administration
- Communications
- Education
- Music and Worship Studies
- Christian Studies
Integration of Faith and Learning
Ouachita Baptist University integrates Christian faith into all aspects of its academic and social environment.
- Christian Studies Program: OBU offers a robust Christian Studies major, designed for students preparing for ministry or theological education.
- Chapel Services: Weekly chapel services are held, where students and faculty gather for worship, prayer, and reflection.
Campus Life
The campus community at OBU is known for its strong sense of belonging and commitment to faith.
- Greek Life: OBU has social clubs (non-Greek organizations) that function similarly to fraternities and sororities, offering community, service, and leadership opportunities.
- Service Opportunities: Service to others is an important part of campus life, with various mission trips, local outreach projects, and service days throughout the academic year.
- Athletics: NCAA Division II, Great American Conference (GAC), with competitive programs in football, basketball, and swimming.
Notable Alumni
- Mike Huckabee: Former Governor of Arkansas and presidential candidate.
- Janet Huckabee: Former First Lady of Arkansas.
John Brown University
John Brown University (JBU) is a private Christian university located in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. JBU is known for its emphasis on integrating faith with education, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on business, engineering, and Christian ministries. The university is affiliated with an interdenominational Christian tradition, welcoming students from various religious backgrounds.
Overview
- Location: Siloam Springs, AR
- Founded: 1919
- Enrollment: Approximately 2,500 students
- Religious Affiliation: Interdenominational Christian
Academic Programs
JBU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with many programs emphasizing practical skills and career readiness in addition to a strong liberal arts foundation.
- Undergraduate Majors:
- Engineering
- Business Administration
- Digital Media Arts
- Psychology
- Youth Ministry
- Graduate Programs:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Counseling
- Master of Science in Leadership
- Master of Education
Faith and Learning Integration
JBU integrates Christian faith into its academic and extracurricular activities, encouraging students to pursue both intellectual and spiritual growth.
- Biblical Studies Requirement: All students are required to complete courses in biblical studies and attend regular chapel services.
- Christian Leadership: Many of the university’s programs focus on developing Christian leaders for service in business, ministry, and education.
Campus Life
JBU fosters a strong community with many opportunities for spiritual growth, leadership development, and service.
- Chapel Services: Students are required to attend weekly chapel services, which include worship, speakers, and opportunities for reflection.
- Student Organizations: JBU has numerous student organizations, including academic clubs, service organizations, and social groups.
- Athletics: NAIA, Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC), with sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and cross country.
Notable Alumni
- Bill Bright: Founder of Campus Crusade for Christ.
- Gary Smalley: Noted author and speaker on family relationships.
Central Baptist College
Central Baptist College (CBC) is a private Christian liberal arts college located in Conway, Arkansas. CBC is known for its commitment to integrating faith into every aspect of student life, offering strong programs in ministry, business, and education. The college provides a supportive community where students are encouraged to grow both spiritually and academically.
Overview
- Location: Conway, AR
- Founded: 1952
- Enrollment: Approximately 600 students
- Religious Affiliation: Baptist Missionary Association of America
Academic Programs
CBC offers a range of undergraduate degrees with a focus on ministry, business, education, and the liberal arts. The college integrates Christian principles into every academic program.
- Popular Majors:
- Ministry and Theology
- Business Administration
- Education
- Psychology
- General Studies
Christian Education
Faith plays a central role at CBC, and students are encouraged to integrate their Christian beliefs into all areas of their academic and personal lives.
- Ministry Programs: CBC offers specialized programs in pastoral ministry, youth ministry, and Christian education, preparing students for leadership roles in churches and faith-based organizations.
- Chapel Services: Regular chapel services are held to support students’ spiritual development and foster a sense of community among the student body.
Campus Life
CBC provides a welcoming, family-like atmosphere where students can grow both academically and spiritually.
- Student Organizations: CBC has several student-run organizations, including academic clubs, ministry groups, and service clubs.
- Service and Missions: Students are encouraged to participate in mission trips, both domestic and international, as well as community service projects in the local area.
- Athletics: NAIA, American Midwest Conference (AMC), with teams in basketball, baseball, soccer, and softball.
Notable Alumni
- Mike Norris: Prominent Baptist pastor and educator.
- Tommy Wallis: Minister and mission leader in the Baptist Missionary Association.
Williams Baptist University
Williams Baptist University (WBU) is a private Christian university located in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. WBU is affiliated with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention and focuses on providing a Christ-centered education that equips students for leadership roles in ministry, education, and business. The university offers a supportive, small-campus environment where students receive personalized attention.
Overview
- Location: Walnut Ridge, AR
- Founded: 1941
- Enrollment: Approximately 500 students
- Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist
Academic Programs
WBU offers undergraduate programs that prepare students for leadership roles in their careers and communities, with a strong emphasis on faith-based education.
- Popular Majors:
- Christian Ministries
- Elementary Education
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
Christian Leadership and Ministry
WBU emphasizes Christian leadership and service in every academic program, encouraging students to integrate their faith into their studies and career paths.
- Christian Ministries Program: This major is designed for students preparing for vocational ministry, including pastoral work, youth ministry, and mission work.
Campus Life
WBU offers a small, close-knit community where students can grow in their faith and engage in a variety of extracurricular activities.
- Student Life: WBU offers numerous student organizations, ministry groups, and academic societies.
- Service Opportunities: Service is a core component of the WBU experience, with opportunities for students to participate in mission trips, outreach projects, and community service.
- Athletics: NAIA, American Midwest Conference (AMC), with teams in basketball, baseball, soccer, and volleyball.
Notable Alumni
- Brady Lane: Youth pastor and community leader.
- John Harrell: Missionary and church planter.
Philander Smith College
Philander Smith College, located in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a private, historically black liberal arts college (HBCU) affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The college is known for its commitment to social justice, leadership development, and academic excellence. Philander Smith provides students with a supportive and inclusive environment where they can engage in rigorous academics and meaningful community service.
Overview
- Location: Little Rock, AR
- Founded: 1877
- Enrollment: Approximately 800 students
- Religious Affiliation: United Methodist Church
Academic Programs
Philander Smith College offers a range of undergraduate programs, with a focus on liberal arts education and preparing students for leadership roles in various fields.
- Popular Majors:
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
Social Justice Focus
Philander Smith College has a strong focus on social justice, emphasizing community service and leadership in addressing issues like poverty, education inequality, and healthcare disparities.
- Social Justice Institute: A unique program that engages students in social justice work through internships, community engagement, and public policy research.
Campus Life
Philander Smith offers a vibrant campus community with a focus on academic excellence, leadership development, and service.
- Student Organizations: Numerous academic, cultural, and service organizations are available for students to join, including honor societies and advocacy groups.
- Service and Community Engagement: Students are encouraged to participate in service projects and community engagement efforts, often addressing issues facing marginalized communities.
- Athletics: NCAA Division III, with sports teams in basketball, cross country, and volleyball.
Notable Alumni
- Scipio A. Jones: Noted civil rights lawyer and political leader.
- Joyce Elliott: Arkansas State Senator and education advocate.