University of Central Arkansas

The University of Central Arkansas (UCA), located in Conway, Arkansas, is a public university recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. With a diverse student body and a wide array of programs, UCA aims to provide a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.

Academics

UCA offers nearly 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across six colleges: Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; Business; Education; Health and Behavioral Sciences; Science and Engineering; and the Graduate School. The university is particularly known for strong programs in Health Sciences, including Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech-Language Pathology, as well as Education and Business. UCA emphasizes experiential learning, research opportunities, and internships, fostering an innovative and collaborative educational environment.

International Students

UCA is home to a growing international student population, with approximately 408 international students making up about 3.9% of the student body. The Center for Global Learning and Engagement (CGLE) provides comprehensive support services, including assistance with admissions, orientation, scholarships, and employment matters like CPT and OPT. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) offers further aid with immigration regulations, housing, and social programming. UCA also offers an Intensive English Program (IEP) for students who need to improve their English language skills before beginning academic studies.

Campus & Location

The University of Central Arkansas is situated in Conway, Arkansas, one of the state's fastest-growing cities, located between the Ozark Foothills and the capital city of Little Rock. UCA's campus spans over 356 acres and is recognized for its beauty, featuring Gregorian architecture and scenic fountains. The campus offers a vibrant student life with nearly 200 recognized student organizations, providing diverse opportunities for engagement and personal growth.

Career Outcomes

UCA's Career Services center is dedicated to preparing students for life after graduation by connecting them with employers and providing job preparation assistance. The university maintains strong industry connections, particularly through its College of Business, which has an active internship program and sees its graduates recruited by major companies such as Acxiom, Dillard's, and Wal-Mart. UCA is also developing an Innovation Campus to strengthen workforce readiness, expand applied research, and create direct pathways for internships and job placement with regional businesses.