University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Fort Smith, AR

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Quick Facts

1928

Founded

Public university

Type

4,133

Total Students

$84M

Endowment

(2019)

$7K

Tuition (In-State)

$14K

Tuition (Out-State)

$10K

Avg Net Price

81%

Acceptance Rate

37%

Graduation Rate

6-year

72%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

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

About University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

From junior college roots to a comprehensive university, UAFS uniquely serves Arkansas with diverse programs.

The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith stands as a testament to educational evolution, transforming from a local junior college in 1928 into a dynamic public university within the esteemed University of Arkansas System. Originally Fort Smith Junior College, it began as an extension of the public school system, adapting over decades to meet the changing needs of its community. Its journey included periods as a private institution, then a public junior college, and later Westark Community College, continuously expanding its offerings to include a pivotal vocational-technical division and a groundbreaking University Center.

This rich history culminates in its 2002 merger with the University of Arkansas System, solidifying its role as a unique institution. UAFS prides itself on its comprehensive approach to higher education, seamlessly blending traditional baccalaureate degrees with innovative applied bachelor's programs designed to directly address regional industry demands. Beyond four-year degrees, it maintains robust one- and two-year associate and technical programs, alongside vital non-credit business and industry training initiatives.

For prospective students, UAFS offers a vibrant academic environment where diverse educational paths converge. Whether you're seeking a hands-on technical certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor's degree tailored for specific career readiness or further academic pursuit, UAFS provides a supportive and responsive learning experience. Its commitment to regional development and student success is embedded in its unique structure, preparing graduates to thrive in a competitive workforce and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1928, evolving from Fort Smith Junior College to a comprehensive public university.
✦Part of the esteemed University of Arkansas System since 2002.
✦Serves 5,887 students with a diverse array of academic programs.
✦Offers a unique blend of applied and traditional baccalaureate degrees, alongside associate and technical programs.
✦A pivotal University Center, established in 1989, facilitated 1,788 bachelor's degrees from partner universities before UAFS offered its own.
✦Holds an endowment of $0.1 billion.
✦Empowered by the Arkansas Legislature in 1997 to offer its own applied bachelor's degrees.

Timeline

1928

Established as Fort Smith Junior College, operating within the Fort Smith public school system.

1950

Incorporated as a private, nonprofit institution with its own governing board.

1952

Moved from borrowed facilities to its current 15-acre site.

1960

A vocational-technical division was added, expanding its comprehensive offerings.

1965

Became a public institution again, creating the Sebastian County Community Junior College District.

1966

Name changed to Westark Junior College.

1972

Name changed to Westark Community College, reflecting a broader mission.

1989

Established a University Center, partnering with five state universities to offer bachelor's and master's degrees.

1997

Arkansas Legislature granted authority to offer up to nine applied bachelor's degrees in its own right.

2002

Officially merged with the University of Arkansas System, becoming the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith.

🏛️

98 Years

of Excellence

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