Tuition and Fees

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) has specific language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. Here are the general language proficiency requirements for admission:

English Proficiency Requirements for International Students:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

   • Undergraduate: Minimum score of 61 (Internet-Based Test).
   • Graduate: Minimum score of 79 (Internet-Based Test).
   • UCA accepts both the TOEFL iBT and TOEFL Paper-based Test (with equivalent scores).

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

   • Undergraduate: Minimum overall band score of 5.5.
   • Graduate: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.

3. Duolingo English Test:

   • UCA also accepts the Duolingo English Test for students who prefer an online option. Minimum scores are:
     • Undergraduate: Minimum score of 85.
     • Graduate: Minimum score of 100.

4. Other Tests:

   • UCA may also accept other English language proficiency tests, such as the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Cambridge English exams, with equivalent scores to the TOEFL or IELTS.

5. Completion of an Intensive English Program (IEP):

   • Students who do not meet the above proficiency requirements may be admitted to the university conditionally if they complete an Intensive English Program (IEP) at UCA or another accredited institution.

6. Exemption:

   • Students whose first language is English or who have completed their secondary education in an English-speaking country (such as the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia) may be exempt from providing English language proficiency test scores.

Additional Notes:

• It is important to check the specific requirements for graduate programs, as some departments or programs may have higher requirements than the general university policy.
• The scores must be from a test taken within the last two years.

Students applying for admission should ensure they meet the English proficiency standards before applying to ensure a smooth admission process.

Apply to UCA - University of Central Arkansas Admissions

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) offers a wide range of academic programs with strengths in several key areas. Some of the university’s notable course specialties include:

1. Business and Economics

• UCA’s College of Business is highly regarded for its programs in business administration, marketing, finance, accounting, and economics. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for careers in business management, finance, and entrepreneurship.
• Specializations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Digital Marketing, International Business.

2. Education

• UCA is well-known for its teacher preparation programs, particularly in areas such as elementary education, special education, and early childhood education. The College of Education emphasizes both practical training and academic rigor, and many of its graduates go on to become educators and leaders in the Arkansas education system.
• Specializations: Special Education, Educational Leadership, Counseling, Literacy Education.

3. Health and Kinesiology

• The College of Health and Behavioral Sciences offers strong programs in nursing, physical therapy, kinesiology, and public health. UCA's nursing program is especially renowned for its clinical experience and its preparation for the NCLEX exam.
• Specializations: Nursing, Exercise Science, Physical Therapy, Public Health, Athletic Training.

4. Fine Arts and Performing Arts

• UCA’s College of Fine Arts and Communication is notable for its programs in theater, dance, music, art, and communication. The university has a well-established reputation for producing talented artists, performers, and media professionals.
• Specializations: Music, Theatre Arts, Dance, Film Studies, Visual Arts, Mass Communication, Digital Media.

5. Science and Engineering

• UCA’s College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics offers strong programs in fields like biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and engineering. It provides students with opportunities for research in these disciplines, preparing them for careers in science, technology, and research.
• Specializations: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Engineering (with a focus on biomedical and environmental engineering).

6. Social Sciences and Humanities

• UCA offers a variety of programs within the College of Liberal Arts, including history, political science, sociology, psychology, philosophy, and English. The university’s social science programs emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical application in fields such as public policy, social work, and criminal justice.
• Specializations: Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, History, Criminal Justice, Philosophy.

7. Law and Public Administration

• UCA offers graduate-level programs in public administration and criminal justice, focusing on governance, public policy, and law enforcement.
• Specializations: Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement.

8. Graduate Programs and Interdisciplinary Studies

• UCA also offers various graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, with many students opting for interdisciplinary studies. Programs like MBA, Master of Public Administration (MPA), and Doctor of Physical Therapy are popular among graduate students.

Summary of Key Course Specialties at UCA:

• Business and Economics
• Education (Teacher Preparation and Leadership)
• Health and Kinesiology (Nursing, Physical Therapy, Public Health)
• Fine Arts and Performing Arts
• Science and Engineering (Biology, Computer Science, Environmental Science)
• Social Sciences and Humanities (Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice)
• Law and Public Administration

The University of Central Arkansas has a well-rounded academic offering with a strong focus on preparing students for careers in education, business, health care, the arts, and sciences.

Research

Academic Programs and Organization

Scholarships - University of Central Arkansas

International student help

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) offers a variety of opportunities for its graduates in both local and national job markets. While UCA does not have the same level of fame as some larger universities, its emphasis on practical, hands-on education and strong regional connections positions its graduates for success across several fields.

Common Career Paths for UCA Graduates:

1. Education and Teaching:

   • Many UCA graduates pursue careers as teachers, administrators, or school counselors in K-12 education. The university is particularly well-regarded for its education programs, and graduates often work in Arkansas or nearby states.
   • UCA’s College of Education prepares students for licensure in various teaching fields, and many go on to work in public and private schools.

2. Business and Finance:

   • Graduates of UCA’s College of Business often find employment in accounting, finance, management, and marketing fields. Companies in Arkansas, including Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, are major employers for UCA business graduates.
   • Entrepreneurship is another area where UCA business students excel, with many starting their own businesses or working in business consulting.

3. Healthcare and Medical Professions:

   • With a growing demand for healthcare workers, graduates from UCA’s Health Sciences and Nursing programs often find jobs in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities, especially in nursing, physical therapy, public health, and medical administration.
   • UCA has strong partnerships with regional healthcare providers, which helps place students in internships and jobs.

4. Engineering and Technology:

   • Graduates with degrees in engineering and computer science often pursue careers in technology companies, both in Arkansas and beyond. Employers such as Acxiom, IBM, and Intel recruit UCA graduates for positions in software development, IT, and engineering.

5. Arts and Communication:

   • UCA’s programs in communication, graphic design, and the arts prepare students for careers in media, advertising, public relations, and publishing. Graduates work in roles such as journalists, graphic designers, marketing specialists, and event coordinators.
   • The university’s Public Relations and Media programs also help graduates land positions in media and broadcasting.

6. Law and Government:

   • Many UCA graduates continue on to law school and eventually pursue careers as attorneys or legal consultants. UCA’s proximity to the Arkansas state government provides opportunities for graduates to work in public policy, government administration, and legal professions.

7. Science and Research:

   • Graduates in fields like biology, chemistry, and environmental science often find jobs in research institutions, environmental agencies, and private sector laboratories. The university also provides opportunities for students to engage in research projects, preparing them for future careers in science and technology.

Career Services at UCA:

UCA’s Career Services office provides valuable support to students and alumni, helping with job placement, internships, resume writing, interview coaching, and networking events. The university has established relationships with local employers and often hosts job fairs, making it easier for students to connect with potential employers.

Job Outlook and Alumni Success:

The job outlook for UCA graduates is generally strong, with many finding employment within six months of graduation. UCA’s alumni network also provides valuable connections and mentorship opportunities for new graduates as they enter the workforce.

If you're interested in a specific program or field of study, I can provide more detailed information on the types of jobs that UCA graduates tend to pursue in that area.

While University of Central Arkansas (UCA) may not be widely known for having globally recognized professors such as those in highly specialized fields at some of the larger universities, it does have a number of faculty members who are respected within their areas of expertise and have made significant contributions to education, research, and community service.

Some areas where UCA professors stand out include:

1. Dr. S. H. M. Javed (Computer Science)

• Dr. Javed is known for his work in computational science, artificial intelligence, and data science. He has been involved in numerous research projects and has received funding to support advancements in technology and science.

2. Dr. David L. Lyle (Health Sciences)

• Dr. Lyle is a highly respected faculty member in UCA’s Health Sciences programs. His research has focused on public health, nursing, and healthcare education. He has also been involved in research related to healthcare access and health policy, contributing to improvements in the community and healthcare systems.

3. Dr. Stephanie Vanderslice (English and Creative Writing)

• Dr. Vanderslice is a creative writing professor at UCA, specializing in fiction and creative non-fiction. She is known for her work in promoting the writing community at UCA and has gained recognition for her scholarship and her creative work in literature.

4. Dr. Jennifer M. Vann (Music and Fine Arts)

• Dr. Vann is a professor in the Department of Music, with expertise in music education and performance. She has significantly contributed to the university's music programs and has earned accolades for her performances and teaching in music theory and history.

5. Dr. John C. Davis (Education)

• Dr. Davis is a notable professor in the College of Education, where he focuses on educational leadership and teacher preparation. His work has been instrumental in shaping future educators and leaders in the Arkansas region, and he is a well-respected figure in the field.

6. Dr. Michelle V. Womack (Psychology)

• Dr. Womack is a professor in the Department of Psychology and focuses on psychological research and the study of human behavior. She has contributed significantly to psychological studies and has helped to develop key resources for students in this field.

Though UCA does not have Nobel Prize winners, these professors and others have earned recognition for their work at the national and regional levels, contributing significantly to their fields. If you’re interested in a specific department or program, I can help you find more information on top faculty members there.

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) has not been directly associated with a Nobel Prize winner among its faculty or alumni. While the university has made significant contributions to education, research, and community engagement, it has not produced Nobel laureates in the same way that some other universities, especially those with larger research focuses, have. However, this does not diminish the quality of education and the professional success of its graduates, particularly in fields such as education, business, and healthcare.

UCA’s focus has been more on providing practical education, community service, and contributing to the professional fields that serve both local and regional communities. Nonetheless, the university’s emphasis on research and academic excellence may still lead to notable achievements, even if a Nobel Prize is not among them.

If you are looking for specific alumni or professors who have contributed significantly to their fields in ways that might eventually earn such recognition, exploring the university's alumni network and research contributions might be of interest.