Ozarka College logo

Ozarka College

Melbourne, AR

publicassociates

Quick Facts

Providing life-changing experiences through education.

1975
Founded
Public community college
Type
564
Total Students
$4K
Tuition (In-State)
$7K
Tuition (Out-State)
$4K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Dr. Josh Wilson

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

About Ozarka College

Ozarka College: Life-changing education shaping futures in the Ozarks since 1975.

Nestled in the heart of Arkansas, Ozarka College stands as a vibrant public community college dedicated to its powerful motto: "Providing life-changing experiences through education." Under the leadership of President Dr. Josh Wilson, Ozarka serves approximately 1,500 students each semester, fostering an environment where individuals can pursue diverse academic paths and develop essential skills for their futures. This institution is a cornerstone of its community, known for its accessible education and unwavering commitment to student success.

Ozarka's journey began in 1975 as the Ozarka Vocational-Technical School, evolving significantly over the decades. In 1991, it was recognized by the Arkansas legislature as Ozarka Technical College, and by 1999, it officially became Ozarka College, shedding the "Technical" to reflect its broadened curriculum. This transformation underscored its expansion beyond vocational training to a wider array of academic programs. Its commitment to quality education was formally recognized in 1996 when it earned accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission.

The college has consistently invested in its infrastructure and reach to better serve its growing student body and surrounding communities. Milestones include a generous 30-acre land donation in 2002 that established a distance learning center in Ash Flat, and the completion of a new 9,200-square-foot structure in 2008. In 2015, Ozarka College celebrated its 40th anniversary with the grand opening of its first two-story building, the cutting-edge Student Services Center. This central hub houses vital student support departments like Admissions, Financial Aid, and Career Pathways, alongside the popular Ozarka College Cafe, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive student experience.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1975, Ozarka College has over 45 years of experience in providing accessible education.
  • Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1996.
  • Serves approximately 1,500 students per semester, offering life-changing educational experiences.
  • Features a modern Student Services Center (opened 2015), the college's first two-story building, centralizing key student resources.
  • Operates permanent campuses in Ash Flat and Mountain View (since 2005) and Mammoth Spring (since 2010), expanding its regional reach.
  • Evolved from a vocational-technical school to a comprehensive public community college, broadening its academic offerings.

Timeline

1975
Opened as Ozarka Vocational-Technical School.
1991
Renamed Ozarka Technical College by the Arkansas legislature.
1996
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
1999
Dropped 'Technical' from its name to emphasize wider program offerings.
2002
Received a 30-acre donation for a distance learning center in Ash Flat.
2004
Library renamed Paul Weaver Library in honor of Senator Paul Weaver.
2008
A new 9,200-square-foot structure was completed.
2015
Celebrated 40th anniversary and opened the new Student Services Center.
🏛️
51 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Dr. Josh Wilson
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Ozarka College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search