Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

5,993

Total Students

$9K

Tuition (In-State)

$15K

Tuition (Out-State)

$12K

Avg Net Price

96%

Acceptance Rate

49%

Graduation Rate

6-year

71%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Arkansas Tech University

From its roots as an agricultural school, Arkansas Tech evolved into a polytechnic leader.

Arkansas Tech University traces its roots back to 1909, established as the Second District Agricultural School by Act 100 of the Arkansas General Assembly. Initially envisioned to provide secondary education in agriculture, horticulture, and textile making, its purpose quickly evolved. By 1925, recognizing its expansion into college-level instruction, the school was renamed Arkansas Polytechnic College, cementing its commitment to a broader technical and academic curriculum.

The university's journey began with a competitive selection process, with Russellville chosen as the site for the Second District Agricultural School in 1910. The first classes commenced later that year, laying the foundation for what would become a significant institution of higher learning. This early focus on practical and technical subjects shaped its identity, distinguishing it as one of four such district schools that ultimately grew into prominent state universities.

By 1927, Arkansas Tech had fully embraced its role as a two-year junior college, and by the end of the 1929-1930 academic year, it phased out its high school offerings entirely. This evolution highlights the institution's adaptability and consistent progression towards providing advanced educational opportunities, building on its foundational mission to serve the region's agricultural and technical needs.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1909 by Act 100 as the Second District Agricultural School.
✦One of four district agricultural schools that evolved into present-day institutions of higher learning in Arkansas.
✦Located in Russellville on February 10, 1910, after evaluating proposals from several cities.
✦Began offering college instruction, leading to its renaming as Arkansas Polytechnic College in 1925.
✦Became a two-year junior college in 1927.
✦Phased out high school classes by the end of the 1929-1930 academic year.

Timeline

1909

Act 100 passed, creating four district agricultural schools, including what would become Arkansas Tech University.

1910

Second District Agricultural School trustees announced Russellville as the chosen location on February 10.

1910

Construction of the school's Main Building began on April 10.

1910

First classes held in Russellville on October 26.

1925

School's name changed to Arkansas Polytechnic College by the General Assembly.

1927

The school became a two-year junior college.

1930

Stopped offering high school classes at the end of the 1929–1930 academic year.

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