University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

“Go here. Go anywhere.”

1907

Founded

Public university

Type

7,426

Total Students

8,238

Undergrad

1,724

Graduate

$64M

Endowment

(2024)

$10K

Tuition (In-State)

$17K

Tuition (Out-State)

$17K

Avg Net Price

90%

Acceptance Rate

53%

Graduation Rate

6-year

73%

Retention Rate

Doctoral/Professional Universities

Classification

President: Houston Davis

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

About University of Central Arkansas

UCA: Where Arkansas's future leaders are forged, rooted in a century-plus of teaching excellence.

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) stands as a cornerstone of education in the state, proudly embodying its motto: "Go here. Go anywhere." Founded in 1907 as the Arkansas State Normal School, UCA quickly became the primary source for teacher training, shaping generations of educators and laying the foundation for Arkansas's public school system. Today, this legacy of impactful education continues, but with a greatly expanded vision.

From its early focus, UCA has evolved into a comprehensive public university offering over 150 diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Students can choose from a wide array of fields across five distinct colleges, all supported by a strong student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 17:1. This ensures a personalized learning environment where students receive dedicated attention and opportunities to thrive academically.

Beyond the classroom, UCA offers a dynamic student experience on its vibrant 356-acre suburban campus in Conway, Arkansas. With nearly 10,000 students, UCA fosters a lively community while providing the resources and opportunities of a major institution. Prospective students and families will find a supportive and engaging atmosphere designed to empower graduates for success in any path they choose.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1907 as Arkansas State Normal School, making it one of the oldest universities in the state.
✦Educates nearly 10,000 students (Fall 2025 data) across a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
✦Offers over 150 unique undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through five distinct colleges.
✦Maintains an engaging student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 17:1, fostering personalized learning experiences.
✦Nestled on a sprawling 356-acre suburban campus in Conway, Arkansas, featuring over 120 buildings.
✦Operates with an endowment of $64 million (2024), supporting its continued growth and academic excellence.

Timeline

1907

Arkansas State Legislature created the Arkansas State Normal School.

1908

Classes officially began with 107 students and seven faculty members.

1925

Renamed Arkansas State Teachers College, reflecting its primary instructional focus.

1967

Transformed into State College of Arkansas, expanding beyond teacher training to liberal arts and health care.

1975

Became The University of Central Arkansas (UCA), recognizing its comprehensive university status.

2017

Houston Davis began his tenure as President.

🏛️

119 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Houston Davis

President

Michael Hargis

Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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