University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Acceptance rate
80.5%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$12,182
In-state $7,334
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
5,459
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
28.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 42.0%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (UAFS) is a prominent institution located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, that serves as a hub for higher education in the region. Established in 1928, UAFS has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university's mission emphasizes student success, community engagement, and academic excellence, which is reflected in its dynamic campus culture and commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
UAFS is known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning and community involvement. The university boasts a dedicated faculty who are not only educators but also mentors, actively engaging students in research, internships, and service-learning projects. This approach not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares graduates for successful careers. The university offers a variety of programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations. Additionally, UAFS has a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that promote a sense of community and school spirit. Overall, the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith stands out as a place where students can receive a quality education while being actively involved in a supportive and enriching environment.
Trends in Tuition and Enrollment at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The data from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith highlights significant trends in tuition costs and student enrollment over the years. Between 2014 and 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from $4,528 to $6,906, reflecting a substantial rise of approximately 53%. For out-of-state undergraduates, tuition rose from $10,072 to $13,770, marking a 37% increase. This escalating cost of education may pose a barrier to prospective students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, and could contribute to the gradual decline in undergraduate enrollment from 7,170 in 2014 to 5,335 in 2023.
In terms of retention rates, there has been a noticeable fluctuation, starting at approximately 63% in 2013, peaking at around 74% in 2021, before settling at about 71% in 2023. This upward trend in retention suggests improvements in student satisfaction and support services, which could be attributed to enhanced academic resources or community engagement initiatives. However, the drop in overall enrollment, despite the increased retention, indicates that the university may need to strengthen its recruitment efforts to attract new students.
Additionally, examining graduation rates provides insight into student success. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has shown a positive trajectory, increasing from about 10% in 2013 to nearly 20% in 2023. Although this is still relatively low, the upward trend suggests that the university is making strides in helping students complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Overall, while the university faces challenges related to rising tuition and declining enrollment, the improvements in retention and graduation rates may position it favorably for future growth and student success. Addressing the affordability of education will be crucial in maintaining and enhancing these positive trends.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Fayetteville, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 100 mi
- Also known as
- UA Fort Smith; UAFS
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Terisa Riley (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 4797887000
- City
- Fort Smith, Arkansas
- Address
- 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72913-3649
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2024: men 80.9%, women 81.8%.
Data insights
Admission Trends at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The admission data from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith over the years reveals intriguing insights into the university's changing landscape. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants show fluctuations, with male acceptance rates ranging from approximately 51.7% to 60.6%, and female acceptance rates varying between 54.6% and 63.0%. This indicates a competitive environment, especially in recent years, where the rates have dipped significantly, suggesting a potentially increasing number of applicants.
The enrollment figures also present an interesting trend. The number of students enrolling peaked at 1,422 in 2011 before experiencing a decline in subsequent years, with a notable drop to 1,084 by 2016. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changes in the university's admission policies, external economic conditions, or shifts in demographics.
Moreover, the data indicates a significant number of students being denied admission each year, with the highest number reaching 1,884 in 2013. This high denial rate, combined with the fluctuating enrollment numbers, may suggest that the university is becoming more selective, aligning with trends seen in higher education across the nation where institutions are increasingly competitive.
As the university continues to evolve, tracking these admission trends will be crucial for understanding its strategic positioning and the implications for future enrollment and diversity among its student body.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 77% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The admission data from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and performance among prospective students. Notably, while the number of applicants submitting ACT scores has generally remained high, with percentages ranging from 76% to 82%, the SAT participation has been notably low, consistently around 2% each year since 2011. This substantial discrepancy indicates a preference for the ACT among applicants, likely influenced by regional trends and the test's alignment with state educational standards.
Additionally, the SAT scores show a consistent range for the 25th to 75th percentile, reflecting a stable academic performance among those who chose to submit these scores. The ACT scores, while not detailed for every year, suggest a competitive applicant pool, especially in the earlier years of the data provided, with substantial numbers of students performing at or above average levels.
The persistence of low SAT submissions could suggest that the institution may consider adapting its admissions strategy to focus more on the ACT, given its stronger representation among applicants. Furthermore, the overall trend of stable or slightly declining participation rates in standardized testing could reflect broader educational shifts, such as the increasing number of schools adopting test-optional policies, which have gained traction nationally in recent years.
In summary, the data indicates a strong reliance on ACT scores among prospective students at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, while SAT participation remains minimal. This trend may influence the university's future admissions strategies and policies as they navigate the evolving landscape of college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,769 applicants in 2025, 80.5% admitted
2,228 admitted 541 not admitted Yield 40.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's13 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The data from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith reveals significant insights into the distribution of graduates across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the Business Administration program stands out with the highest number of bachelor's graduates at 157, reflecting the growing interest in business education, which is essential in today's competitive job market. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that business-related degrees remain among the most sought after by students.
The Registered Nursing program also displays a strong output with 67 bachelor's graduates, emphasizing the ongoing demand for qualified healthcare professionals amidst a nationwide nursing shortage. This aligns with recent health sector trends where institutions are emphasizing nursing education to meet the increasing healthcare needs.
Interestingly, Computer Science graduates numbered 29, which, while respectable, may suggest a need for increased focus on tech education given the industry's rapid growth. This aligns with reports indicating an urgent need for skilled workers in technology fields, highlighting an opportunity for the university to expand its offerings in this area.
On the other hand, several programs, particularly in the arts and education, show limited outputs, such as the Drama and Dramatics program with only 3 graduates. This could reflect a broader trend where students gravitate towards more lucrative fields, potentially impacting the future of creative sectors.
Finally, the absence of master's and doctoral graduates in many programs, particularly in fields like Health Care Management and Engineering, raises questions about the university's capacity to support advanced studies. Overall, these graduate numbers provide a snapshot of educational trends and workforce demands, guiding the university's strategic planning for future academic offerings.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | |||
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $43,210 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $43,210 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | $67,400 | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $70,074 | |||
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $51,714-$65,349 | |||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $51,714-$65,349 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $71,652 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $41,044 | |||
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $41,044 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $41,044 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $42,985 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $42,985 | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | $42,985 | |||
| History Teacher Education. | $42,985 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $27,514 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $34,666 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $41,638 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $41,801 | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanics and Repairers, General. | - | |||
| Industrial Electronics Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer Support Specialist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |||
| CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $35,508 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
5,496 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 69.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,959
- First-year undergraduates 796
- Graduate students 37
- Transfers and others 1,704
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,459)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith in 2023
The student demographic data from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith reveals a diverse body of students in the 2023 academic year. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable enrollment of 832 students, with a gender distribution showing that 38.3% are male and 61.7% are female. This gender disparity carries over to the upperclassmen, where the total of 3,014 students also reflects a similar trend, with the same male and female ratios.
Transfer students account for 297 individuals, showcasing a slight increase in male representation at 40.4%, while females make up 59.6%. The graduate program has a significantly smaller cohort of 44 students, with an even more pronounced gender imbalance, where only 18.2% are male and 81.8% are female.
Additionally, the overall student body appears to be predominantly white, although further breakdowns by ethnicity are not fully detailed in the data presented. The 1,192 students classified under 'nd' suggest non-degree seeking individuals, with a relatively balanced gender ratio of 47.3% male and 52.7% female.
This demographic landscape at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith mirrors broader trends seen in higher education across the United States, where female students often outnumber male students. The implications of these trends are significant, as they may influence campus culture, academic programming, and support services tailored to the unique needs of a diverse student population. As educational institutions continue to adapt to these demographic shifts, understanding and addressing the specific challenges faced by different groups will be crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Age Composition of Students at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The student age distribution at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith reveals interesting trends in enrollment demographics. The most significant group is comprised of students under 18, with 582 male undergraduates and 677 female undergraduates, indicating a strong presence of younger students. This could reflect a trend where high school students are increasingly pursuing college courses, possibly influenced by dual enrollment programs.
Moving into the 18-19 age bracket, the enrollment remains robust, with 519 male undergraduates and an impressive 837 female undergraduates. This suggests a growing interest among young women in higher education, which aligns with national trends showing that women are increasingly outpacing men in college enrollment.
The age group of 20-21 shows a slight decline in male undergraduates to 443, while female undergraduates remain strong at 684. The pattern continues with the 22-24 age group, where male enrollment drops further, and female enrollment remains comparatively stable. This could indicate that younger males might be opting for alternative career paths or delaying college.
As we analyze older age brackets, the number of students decreases significantly, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups. The drop-off highlights a common trend in education where older students often face more obstacles in returning to school, such as work and family commitments.
Overall, these statistics reflect a dynamic student body characterized by a youthful demographic, particularly among women, and showcase the challenges and choices faced by different age groups in pursuing higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
56 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith over the years reveals significant trends and fluctuations. Starting from 2004, the number of international students in undergraduate programs was notably low, with only 12 students, accounting for just 0.19% of the total undergraduate population. However, there has been a remarkable increase in the following years, especially from 2010 onwards, where the proportion of international students surged to 0.42% and reached its peak at 1.52% in 2015.
This upward trajectory reflects a growing interest and commitment from the university to attract international students, potentially influenced by global trends in higher education and the increasing value placed on diverse learning environments. By 2019, the percentage of international students had stabilized at around 0.90% to 1.22%, indicating a possible saturation point or a more competitive recruitment landscape.
However, the data for graduate students is less comprehensive, as it appears that only a few years have reported figures, with a notable increase in 2019, where 7.69% of graduate students were international. This data gap highlights the need for further transparency and reporting in graduate enrollment statistics.
Overall, the university's efforts to enhance its international student body reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the benefits of a diverse student population. As we move forward, it will be crucial for the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith to continue nurturing this growth and adapt to the changing global landscape in education.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$22,264
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $12,182
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,334
- Room and board
- $10,082
- Graduate tuition
- $12,324
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 8% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$75.0M
Expenses$77.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 11 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | 7 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 14 |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | 7 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 13 |
| Golf | 10 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | 6 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 48.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 102.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 110.7 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Harding UniversitySearcy · 149.6 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 159.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 173.6 mi
U.S. News #116
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 214.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of North TexasDenton · 218.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 223.2 mi
U.S. News #85
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith:
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its strong research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - This university ranks 124 in the 2024 US News rankings and is renowned for its academic excellence and research opportunities. It provides a diverse array of programs and has a strong athletic tradition.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, this comprehensive university is located in Dallas, Texas, and is noted for its rigorous academic programs, vibrant campus culture, and strong alumni network.
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151, the University of Kansas is well-regarded for its research programs and offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
Texas Christian University - With a rank of 98, TCU is known for its academic programs and commitment to student development, situated in Fort Worth, Texas, it has a welcoming campus atmosphere.
These institutions provide a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students in the region.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Campus Crime Rates at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
The data from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith reveals varying crime rates over the years, reflecting both improvements and concerns regarding campus safety. The reported crime rate per 1000 students peaked in 2014 at 7.22 and has since shown a downward trend, reaching a low of 3.01 in 2022. This significant decline could suggest effective measures taken by university authorities to enhance campus security and promote a safer environment for students.
A closer look at specific offenses indicates a considerable number of arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol abuse. In 2014, the rate of drug arrests was particularly high, which could correlate with broader societal issues surrounding substance use among college students. This area remains crucial for ongoing prevention efforts, as substance abuse can lead to various other criminal activities and adversely affect student well-being.
The data also highlights a notable absence of serious violent crimes such as murder, rape, or robbery, which is encouraging. However, the presence of domestic violence and stalking incidents cannot be overlooked, indicating a need for continued focus on these issues. Awareness campaigns and support services for victims must remain a priority to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
Overall, while the trend appears positive, ongoing vigilance and proactive measures are essential for maintaining and further improving campus safety. It is vital for educational institutions to foster environments where students can thrive without the threat of crime. For more information on calculating crime rates, visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Arkansas-Fort Smith include Sonny Weems (Professional basketball player for Jiaozuo), Laurence Luckinbill (Actor, playwright and director) and Alisa Burras (Former professional women's basketball player).
-
Sonny Weems 1986–
Professional basketball player for Jiaozuo
-
Laurence Luckinbill 1934–
Actor, playwright and director
-
Alisa Burras 1975–
Former professional women's basketball player
-
Justin Boyd 1975–
Pharmacist and Arkansas state senator
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.