University of Central Arkansas Review

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) is located in Conway, Arkansas, about 30 miles north of Little Rock. It is the second-largest university in the state according to student enrollment.

University of Central Arkansas Overview

The University of Central Arkansas was founded in 1907 as the Arkansas State Normal School, and later changed to the Arkansas State Teachers College. While teacher training and education is still an important component of the school's academics, the school began to expand into liberal arts and embrace its current incarnation in 1967.

Today, the school offers over 100 undergraduate courses, 30 master's programs and five doctoral programs through six colleges. The College of Education had the third-highest number of declared majors in 2009. Other popular programs include health sciences, biology and psychology. Enrollment to UCA has increased by over 28% in the last five years, with almost 13,000 students enrolled in 2008.

Admissions and Enrollment Overview

Those wishing to apply to the University of Central Arkansas can complete an online admissions form or mail in a paper copy. Applicants must also submit high school (or applicable college transfer) transcripts, standardized test scores and immunization records. The university offers a number of academic, athletic and performance-based scholarships, such as the UCA Foundation Scholarship and the Presidential Scholarship.

Campus Facilities and Learning Environment

In addition to research materials, the university's Torreyson Library features a 24-hour study center, computer labs and an on-site Starbucks. The University of Central Arkansas has over 20 instructional labs at the Lewis Science Center, a listening lab at the Music Resource Center and an online writing lab at the library. Technological assets at UCA include wireless Internet, a virtual library (where students can renew books and access online research materials) and several online learning opportunities.

To expand upon their academic pursuits, University of Central Arkansas students can participate in research opportunities related to their undergraduate programs, such as math and experimental psychology. They may also partake of study-abroad opportunities to countries such as China, England, Morocco and India.

Colleges and Schools at the University of Central Arkansas

  • College of Liberal Arts
  • College of Business
  • College of Health and Behavioral Sciences
  • College of Education
  • College of Fine Arts and Communication
  • College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

School Contact Information

  • Address: 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway, AR 72035
  • Phone Number: (501) 450-5000