University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Key Highlights

• Public research university with state support
• Mid-size city location with balance of urban amenities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at UA Little Rock reflects the university's large commuter population and working adult emphasis. Many students balance coursework with jobs and family responsibilities, attending classes between other commitments. The campus provides spaces for studying and gathering, though the residential population remains small compared to traditional universities. On-campus housing accommodates several hundred students in apartment-style living. Greek life exists on a smaller scale than at flagship state universities. Intramural sports provide recreation, while the Trojans compete in NCAA Division I athletics in several sports. Basketball games generate fan enthusiasm, with the Jack Stephens Center hosting games in downtown Little Rock. Student organizations cover academic interests, cultural groups, and service activities. The student government provides leadership opportunities. Campus events bring students together despite the commuter-heavy population. Little Rock itself offers entertainment, dining, and recreation beyond campus. The River Market district downtown provides restaurants and nightlife. Hiking trails in the surrounding hills offer outdoor recreation. The university's urban location means students can access internships and jobs without extensive commuting.

Location & Surroundings

Little Rock occupies the geographic center of Arkansas along the Arkansas River. As the state capital and largest city, Little Rock concentrates government, healthcare, legal, and financial activity that creates employment for university graduates. The campus sits in the western part of the city, accessible from major highways serving the metropolitan area. Downtown Little Rock has experienced revitalization in recent decades. The River Market district offers restaurants, shops, and entertainment along the riverfront. The Clinton Presidential Library anchors the eastern end of the district, drawing visitors to the area. The Big Dam Bridge, crossing the Arkansas River, provides one of the country's longest pedestrian bridges for recreation. Arkansas's natural beauty surrounds the city. Hot Springs National Park lies an hour to the west. The Ozark Mountains begin north of the city, offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives. Pinnacle Mountain State Park provides outdoor recreation minutes from campus. The climate features hot, humid summers and mild winters, with occasional ice storms causing more disruption than snowfall. Cost of living in Little Rock remains well below national averages, making student life affordable.

Costs & Career Outcomes

UA Little Rock offers affordable public university education for Arkansas residents. In-state tuition runs around $8,500 annually, with out-of-state students paying approximately $18,000. On-campus housing costs roughly $8,000 for the academic year. These costs compare favorably to other Arkansas institutions and remain well below national averages. Financial aid includes federal grants and loans, state scholarships for qualifying Arkansas residents, and institutional awards based on academic merit or other criteria. The Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship provides significant support for eligible students. Work-study programs and campus employment help students earn while learning. The university's urban location provides off-campus job opportunities as well. Career outcomes connect to Arkansas employers seeking graduates in nursing, business, technology, engineering, and education. Law school graduates enter practice throughout Arkansas, with strong bar passage rates. Government agencies in the state capital hire graduates for public service roles. Healthcare systems employ nursing and health sciences graduates. The career services office provides job search support, resume assistance, and connections to employers who recruit at UA Little Rock. Alumni networks, while not as extensive as at larger flagship universities, provide regional connections.

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