Best Community Colleges in Arkansas

Community colleges in Arkansas offer programs in a wide range of fields, with special incentives for jobs the state defines as in-demand. Some in-demand industries in Arkansas include transportation, business, hospitality, and healthcare.

In addition to a variety of technical colleges, the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University offer two-year program options. Students may be drawn to the climate and outdoor opportunities in Arkansas, or to the low cost of living. Read on to explore top two-year schools in the state and find out more about what you can expect if you decide to attend an Arkansas community college.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 20 public two-year community colleges in Arkansas offer educational opportunities. Students can find part-time and full-time program options, and can attend either in person or online, depending on the program. Some colleges even offer self-paced programs, which are great for working students and students with caregiving responsibilities or other time commitments.

Arkansas is likely to see growth in the next year. Former governor Asa Hutchinson announced in November 2021 a slew of new projects being built in the state. More than 500 companies have signed incentive deals with Arkansas since 2015, creating more than 25,000 new jobs. More than 118,000 jobs are expected to be created by 2028. Most of those jobs focus on providing services across the state.

Every key measured cost of living index ranks below the national average in Arkansas. All metro areas aside from Little Rock enjoy an index in the 80s compared to a national average of 100. Median home prices hit $220,000 at the high end in northwest Arkansas. All other regions have median home costs around $150,000. Renters can expect to pay an average of $700.

Major metropolitan areas within a day’s drive of Arkansas include Memphis, St. Louis, Dallas, and Oklahoma City.

Arkansas lives up to the nickname “The Natural State.” Hot Springs and Eureka Springs are top tourist destinations with their warm natural springs. Outdoor recreation can be found in Arkansas’ 52 state parks.

You can even find a beach in this landlocked state: Arkansas is home to 15 lakes with sandy shores nestled throughout its rolling hills. Arkansas also boasts an incredible food scene. Don’t be surprised if you spot a movie star while dining out as the state is one of the top filming destinations in the South.

Arkansas experiences all four seasons but has a mild average temperature. Arkansas residents do have to deal with a lot of humidity. Warmer seasons may bring tornadoes to the state, so basic knowledge of severe weather preparedness is also important for those who live in the state.

Snow falls an average of 10-15 inches a year in the northern part of the state. Average temperatures range from high 30s to low 80s.

Arkansas’ location makes it an employee’s dream state. Arkansas is located along one of the country’s major transportation arteries. If you work in transportation, one of the state’s top industries, you can enjoy a low cost of living while providing a vital service to people across the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average income in Arkansas as of May 2020 was $44,780.

The state projects this sector of jobs will see large growth through 2028 with more than 31,000 jobs projected to be added. Home healthcare services are also expected to be high in demand. Associate degrees in a variety of health topics will help those interested in healthcare fields launch their career.

This industry expects a 13% growth through 2028. Event promoters, historical site workers, and recreational jobs are the largest growth areas. What isn’t expected to be in demand is performers, artists, or writers. Arkansas community colleges offer a variety of degrees for those interested in restaurant management, hotel management, tourism, and other hospitality fields.

This supersector projects 18,000 jobs to be added by 2028, with computer systems designs driving that number along with scientific and technical consulting services. Students will need at least an associate of applied science in a particular area of interest for this job. Some top areas include IT, retail, industrial management, power plant technology, and horticulture.

Specialty trade contractors are projected to be in high demand in Arkansas in the coming years. Construction management and construction technology associate degrees can be obtained at Arkansas’ top community colleges. Contractors will need a license from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board.

The financial sector in Arkansas could face a 10% growth by 2028. This includes jobs like financial analysts, insurance workers, credit counselors, and loan officers. Business associate degrees are offered at many community colleges and technical schools in Arkansas.