About University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (UAFS) started as a junior college in 1928. Nearly 100 years later, it is a premier member of the University of Arkansas system. UAFS focuses on career advancement for students while also contributing to the economic development and enhancement of the region’s quality of life.
Today, the university offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees as well as certificates. These career-based programs blend advanced theory with hands-on learning. In this way, students prepare to achieve their business and career goals. Key features that boost UAFS’s reputation include:
- More than 100 future-focused degrees
- A one-on-one relationship with faculty and staff
- A supportive environment for students of all backgrounds
With the goal of future growth and new programs aligned with its mission, UAFS continues its emphasis on excellence and personalized learning with the addition of online learning. The university stands as a pillar of support for students, providing the education for success in a dynamic world.
Accreditation & Licensing
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Type:
4-year, PublicHighest Level Offered:
Master's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 6,089 ; Graduate: 50Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 18% ; Graduate: 100%Graduation Rate:
38%Transfer Rate:
9%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$41,102Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$18,250Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
80%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$8,039Credit for Military Training:
YesOnline Programs offered by University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
All Programs
UAFS gives working adults a practical way to keep moving toward graduation. The school offers many online classes, so full-time workers can keep their jobs while taking courses in a mostly online graduate path.
Cost is a strong point at UAFS. Annual tuition is listed at $12,182, and many students see it as a lower-cost option than the University of Arkansas flagship campus.
Good planning each term matters. Staying on top of aid timelines and advising messages can help you keep your pace and finish on time.
At UAFS, support is strongest when students work directly with people. Advising is practical and clear, and it helps students choose a path. Classes are often smaller, so professors are easier to reach when help is needed.
Some office processes are less steady. Financial aid replies and follow-through can vary, and career services may feel limited for some students. Even so, many students can get solid day-to-day guidance through advising and class support.
UAFS offers a lot of online classes. That helps with schedule pressure. One full-time worker stayed in school because classes were online.
The online pace can fit busy adults. Instructors are reachable in a smaller-school setting. The structure supports steady progress while working.
At UAFS, classes feel personal and led by professors who know their students. Small class sizes make it easier to build real connections with professors and advisors. Many students speak highly of their instructors and say they learn a lot in class.
The workload can feel heavy at times, with some stretches that rely a lot on reading. Teaching style also changes by course and department. Some classes are lecture-based, while others are more interactive with direct faculty contact.
UAFS is a strong fit for students who want close access to instructors, clear expectations, and a steady pace in a smaller learning setting.
UAFS is a practical school for budget-minded students. Tuition is repeatedly described as low. It is also called much cheaper than U of A. That cost edge is the clearest strength.
Classes are often personal and professor-led. Small class sizes help instructor access. Many professors are rated highly. Students report strong learning in class.
Online classes also help working adults keep pace. Support is more uneven outside the classroom. Advising can be helpful and direct. Financial-aid response is less consistent.
Admin follow-through can vary by office. Overall, UAFS fits students who want lower cost and closer faculty contact.
UAFS is a practical school for budget-minded students. Tuition is repeatedly described as low. It is also called much cheaper than U of A. That cost edge is the clearest strength.
Classes are often personal and professor-led. Small class sizes help instructor access. Many professors are rated highly. Students report strong learning in class.
Online classes also help working adults keep pace. Support is more uneven outside the classroom. Advising can be helpful and direct. Financial-aid response is less consistent.
Admin follow-through can vary by office. Overall, UAFS fits students who want lower cost and closer faculty contact.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Is University of Arkansas-Fort Smith accredited?
Yes. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
How many online programs does University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offer?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers 1 online program currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offer?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is focused on master's-level programs.
How should students contact admissions at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is University of Arkansas-Fort Smith expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith falls into GetEducated’s $$ tuition tier, which points to a mid tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask University of Arkansas-Fort Smith first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most University of Arkansas-Fort Smith programs require?
Most listed programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Is University of Arkansas-Fort Smith military friendly?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith does not show Yellow Ribbon support. If military benefits matter for your plan, check current military options before you apply.
How can students request information from University of Arkansas-Fort Smith through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for University of Arkansas-Fort Smith applications?
Most listed programs ask for Interview, Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Resume/CV. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does University of Arkansas-Fort Smith accept life experience credit?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.
Are University of Arkansas-Fort Smith programs fully online or mixed?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?
Some programs show different in-state and out-of-state tuition totals, so check your specific program cost.
Do any University of Arkansas-Fort Smith programs have state authorization limitations?
Some programs show state or location restrictions, so students should confirm eligibility for their state before applying. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare University of Arkansas-Fort Smith programs?
Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.
What should students compare before choosing a University of Arkansas-Fort Smith program?
Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.
Geographic and Educational Overview
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is located in Arkansas
Arkansas at a Glance:
Top Majors in Arkansas:
Top Incentives in Arkansas:
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship: Up to $5,000 annually
- Arkansas Future Grant: Last-dollar tuition and fees
- Arkansas Health Education Grant: Varies by program
Top Career Pathways in Arkansas:
- Entry Level: Logistics Coordinator ($55,000)
- Mid Level: Supply Chain Manager ($85,000)
- Senior Level: Operations Director ($130,000+)
- Required Education: BS Supply Chain Management
- Certifications: APICS, CSCP, PMP
- Entry Level: Clinic Manager ($58,000)
- Mid Level: Healthcare Administrator ($88,000)
- Senior Level: Hospital Director ($135,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, RHIA
- Entry Level: Process Engineer ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Manufacturing Manager ($95,000)
- Senior Level: Plant Director ($140,000+)
- Required Education: BS Engineering
- Certifications: Six Sigma, PE, PMP