National Park College
General Information
About National Park College
National Park College (NPC) is a public community college situated in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Established in 2003 through the merger of Garland County Community College and Quapaw Technical Institute, NPC serves as a vital educational institution in the region. The college offers a range of academic programs, including associate degrees and certificates, with a focus on providing accessible and affordable education to its diverse student body. NPC is committed to fostering student success through personalized instruction, hands-on learning experiences, and community engagement.
Contact Information
Address: 101 College Drive, Hot Springs, AR 71913
Phone: (501) 760-4222
Email: Contact via the college’s website or by phone
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2003 |
| Founder | Merged institutions: GCCC and QTI |
| Campus Location | Hot Springs, Arkansas |
| Campus Type | Public community college |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Motto | “Find Your Path” |
| Sports Affiliation | NJCAA – Bi-State Conference |
| Mascot | Nighthawks |
National Park College Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Community Colleges in Arkansas | 12th |
| Best Community Colleges in the U.S. | 291st |
National Park College Academics
National Park College Faculties / Departments
- Business and Technology
- Health Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Mathematics
- Nursing and Allied Health
- Public Safety and Emergency Services
- Workforce Development and Continuing Education
National Park College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts
- Associate of Science in Business
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
- Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice
- Certificate in Medical Assisting
- Certificate in Welding Technology
- Certificate in Information Technology
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (starting July 2025)
Online Learning
NPC offers online and hybrid courses to provide flexible learning options for students. These programs are designed to accommodate the needs of working adults and those with other commitments, ensuring access to quality education regardless of location.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| ACT | 20 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Retention Rate | 59% |
| Part-Time Retention Rate | 34% |
| Graduation Rate | 20% |
National Park College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
NPC has an open admissions policy. While specific GPA and SAT/ACT score requirements are not mandated, students are encouraged to meet the following benchmarks for certain programs:
- ACT Reading: 19
- ACT Math: 21
- ACT English: 19
National Park College Acceptance Rate
| Acceptance Rate |
|---|
| 100% |
National Park College Application Requirements
Prospective students must submit an application form, high school transcripts or equivalent, and may be required to provide ACT or Accuplacer test scores, depending on the program of interest. Immunization records are also required for certain programs.
Application Process
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit official high school or GED transcripts.
- Provide ACT or Accuplacer test scores (if applicable).
- Submit immunization records (if required).
- Attend an orientation session.
- Register for classes.
National Park College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester Start | August |
| Spring Semester Start | January |
| Summer Session Start | May |
Essay Prompt
An essay is not required for admission.
National Park College Scholarships
NPC offers various scholarships to degree-seeking students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Award amounts may be used to cover tuition, fees, and books.
National Park College Tuition and Fees
| Category | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $3,300 | $4,710 |
| Housing | $7,070 | $7,070 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Personal Expenses | $7,931 | $7,931 |
National Park College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 57% |
| Male | 43% |
| White | 75% |
| African American | 10% |
| Hispanic | 6% |
| Asian | 1% |
| Native American | 1% |
| Multiracial | 0% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
NPC provides support services for low-income students and students with disabilities. These services include financial aid assistance, academic advising, and accommodations to ensure an equitable learning environment.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 2,768 |
| International Students | 0% |
University Diversity
NPC’s student body reflects a diverse community, with a significant representation of African American and Hispanic students. This diversity enriches the learning environment, fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect. The college is committed to promoting diversity through various programs and initiatives that celebrate cultural differences and encourage global awareness.
Average Earnings
Graduates of NPC have an average annual income of $51,059 over the first 12 years after graduation. This earning potential reflects the practical skills and knowledge gained through NPC’s programs, which are designed to meet the demands of the workforce.
National Park College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
NPC employs a dedicated team of faculty and staff who are committed to student success. Faculty members bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, while staff provide essential support services to enhance the student experience.
Faculty Profiles
- Adam Earhart – Assistant Professor of Anatomy & Physiology, STEM
- Alexandra Barnard – Professor of Biology, STEM
- Aaron Brewer – Photographer, Marketing and PR
- Mark Oliver – Sports Information Coordinator
National Park College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
NPC offers on-campus housing options to students, providing a supportive and engaging living environment. The campus features modern facilities, including residence halls equipped with amenities to ensure student comfort and convenience.
Transportation
The college is accessible by public transportation, and parking facilities are available for students who commute by car. Additionally, NPC is located in close proximity to local amenities, including shopping centers and dining establishments, enhancing the overall student experience.