University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain
General Information
Overview
The University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain (often abbreviated UA Rich Mountain or UARM) is a public two-year community college based in Mena, Arkansas, serving the Ouachita Mountain region and surrounding rural counties. As a comprehensive learning-centered institution, UARM provides an array of academic transfer programs, technical and workforce credentials, adult education, and community enrichment services. It aims to meet the educational and economic needs of its region by offering accessible pathways to further degrees, as well as targeted skill training that aligns with local industry demand.
The college features multiple campus sites and satellite centers (in Waldron, Mount Ida, and others), enhancing regional reach. Because it operates within the Arkansas public college system, UARM benefits from institutional support, articulation agreements, and state oversight. The campus environment is small and community-oriented, allowing students to interact closely with faculty and staff, and to blend academic, vocational, and personal goals. It strives to bridge the gap between rural accessibility and higher education quality.
Contact Information
Address: 1100 College Drive, Mena, Arkansas 71953
Phone: (479) 394-7622
Email: (for general inquiries) the institutional admissions or public affairs offices at UA Rich Mountain
School Facts — University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding / Establishment | Founded as Rich Mountain Vocational-Technical School in 1973; restructured as Rich Mountain Community College in 1983; joined University of Arkansas system in 2017 |
| Motto / Institutional Emphasis | Committed to access, affordability, workforce readiness, and transfer education in the Ouachita Mountain region |
| Institutional Type | Public community college, two-year institution |
| Accreditation / Oversight | Accredited as part of the Arkansas public higher education system; participates in state and regional higher education oversight |
| Campus Setting | Rural / small town, multiple sites across western Arkansas |
| Key Academic Emphases | Transfer associate degrees, technical and career education, workforce development, adult education, online offerings |
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National / U.S. Ranking | Not generally ranked in national four-year university indices |
| Global / International Ranking | Not applicable for specialized two-year institutions |
| Community College / Technical Rankings | Recognized as one of the top 200 U.S. community colleges eligible for the Aspen Prize; named among USA Today’s Top 250 Vocational Schools |
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Academics
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Faculties / Departments
- Department of Liberal Arts / Transfer Studies
- Department of Business & Information Technology
- Department of Health Sciences / Nursing / Allied Health
- Department of Technical Trades (Automotive, Welding, Machine Tool)
- Department of Cosmetology / Massage / Esthetics
- Department of Workforce Development & Adult Education
- Online & Distance Education Division
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate of Arts (AA) / Associate of Science (AS) for transfer
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in technical fields
- Technical certificate and certificate programs in areas such as welding, machine tool, automotive, cosmetology, medical records, etc.
- Nursing credentials (CNA, LPN, RN transitions)
- Business Administration and Information Technology programs
- Health sciences / allied health credentials
- Workforce development and continuing education courses
- Some fully online or hybrid certificate and general education offerings
Online Learning
UA Rich Mountain offers extensive online learning options, enabling many students to take at least some courses remotely. In recent years, significant numbers of students have enrolled in at least one online class, and some entire programs (such as in business or computer science) are available fully online. This flexibility is particularly important for rural students who may not reside near campus full time. The online infrastructure includes virtual course delivery, learning management systems, remote support, and hybrid models that blend in-person and online modalities to fit student needs.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Score Range / Policy |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not broadly published; admission is open and SAT is not a strong barrier |
| ACT | Some programs may consider ACT, but overall no strict published range |
| GRE | Not applicable (graduate degrees are not the focus) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
UA Rich Mountain’s reported retention (freshman to second year) rates historically hover around 62 % to 65 % depending on cohort. College data suggests first-time retention around 62 %. Graduation outcomes show that among first-time, full-time students, approximately 29 % complete degrees within four years, and 39 % within six years. These rates reflect the mix of transfer students, part-time learners, and those leaving for employment or transfer before degree completion.
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Because UARM maintains an open admission policy typical of many community colleges, there is no published strict GPA cutoff or standardized test range. Applicants generally must submit high school transcripts or GED equivalent but are rarely excluded on test performance alone.
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100 % (open admissions for eligible applicants) |
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Application Requirements
Prospective students typically submit an application to the college, supply high school transcripts or GED records, and meet basic residency or documentation requirements. Some programs, especially in health or technical fields, may require additional criteria (e.g., prerequisite coursework, remediation assessment, or program-specific auditions). Students may also be asked to take placement or assessment tests (such as ACCUPLACER) for core English or math placement. The aim is to facilitate access while supporting students into proper levels of coursework.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the college’s admission application
- Provide high school or GED transcripts
- Undergo placement assessments or test as required
- Select intended program or major
- Attend orientation or advising session
- Enroll in courses and register
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Session | Deadline / Notes |
|---|---|
| Fall semester | Application and registration deadlines typical in summer months |
| Spring semester | Deadlines occur in preceding fall semester period |
| Summer / short terms | Varied deadlines depending on program and online cycles |
| Rolling admission | Many programs accept applications continuously until capacity is reached |
Essay Prompt
There is no widely documented general essay prompt for admission to UARM. Some specialized programs may request a personal statement regarding interest in the field or goals, especially in competitive technical or health areas, but this is not uniformly required.
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Scholarships
UA Rich Mountain offers institutional scholarships and grants to eligible students, often based on academic performance, need, program of study, or regional support. Many students also receive federal aid, state grants, or workforce development scholarships. Because tuition is relatively affordable, scholarships often help reduce costs further for low-income students.
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Type | Approximate Cost / Notes |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition (per year) | $3,864 (for in-district / in-state students) |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $4,104 |
| Net Price (after aid) | ~$4,696 average for students receiving aid |
| Additional Costs | Books, fees, supplies; room and board if applicable for residential students |
Student Profile and Demographics — University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
UA Rich Mountain’s student body includes both traditional ever younger learners and nontraditional adult students. Women slightly outnumber men. In terms of ethnicity, minority representation includes Hispanic, African American, and multiracial students, though the majority identify as White. Because of regional demographics, the college reflects the local population mix and often serves first-generation college students, rural learners, and learners from economically diverse backgrounds.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A significant proportion of UARM students qualify for need-based financial aid, reflecting lower-income community demographics. The institution offers support services, accommodations for students with disabilities, and academic assistance through tutoring and learning support centers. This ensures that students facing economic or accessibility barriers have pathways to success.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | ~719 students (combined full-time and part-time) |
| Full-Time Students | ~403 (as per Niche data) |
| Part-Time Students | ~316 |
| Acceptance Rate | 100 % |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | ~16:1 |
University Diversity
UA Rich Mountain’s demographic diversity reflects its location in rural Arkansas. While the ethnic and racial diversity is modest relative to larger institutions, the college embraces inclusivity and supports underrepresented groups through bridging programs, support services, and scholarships. The campus fosters a community culture that encourages students from varied socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds to engage in education. Because many students come from rural or underserved areas, the institution plays a vital role in expanding access to higher education and facilitating upward mobility. The diversity of life experiences—nontraditional students, adult learners, first-generation students—enriches the classroom environment beyond simple demographic measures.
Average Earnings
Graduates of UA Rich Mountain often enter local industries, technical trades, health care, business, or transfer into four-year institutions. Early career average salaries for associate degree holders from UARM’s programs tend to be modest, but many gain full-time work quickly in trades aligned with their credentials. Because many graduates work in regional economies with lower average wages, earnings may be lower than national averages for comparable credentials, but the value is often seen in employment stability, local community impact, and cost-effective education. Over time, those who transfer to four-year institutions or specialize further may see significant earnings gains.
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
UA Rich Mountain maintains a faculty of full-time and adjunct instructors who teach liberal arts, technical, health, and vocational courses. The faculty-to-student ratio is approximately 16:1, which allows more individualized attention. Staff roles include admissions, advising, technical support, student services, and administrative support across the multiple campus sites.
Faculty Profiles, Expertise, Achievements
Faculty members bring both academic and industry experience. In technical and workforce fields, instructors often hold professional credentials, certifications, or prior industry experience. In liberal arts or transfer areas, faculty generally hold master’s or higher degrees. Many are actively involved in community engagement, local economic development partnerships, and regional projects. The college also emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, so faculty often oversee labs, workshops, internships, and student mentoring.
University of Arkansas Community College – Rich Mountain Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Although primarily a commuter institution, UARM offers on-campus housing to accommodate students who must relocate or whose distance requires it. Housing costs are more modest compared to four-year residential colleges. Campus life features student clubs, athletics, academic events, and social opportunities. Facilities like student union areas, library, bookstore, dining, and recreational spaces support a full college experience in a rural context. The small campus community encourages connection and participation among students across disciplines.
Transportation
The main campus in Mena and satellite locations are accessible via regional roads. Many students commute by car, given the rural nature of the region. Parking facilities are available on campus. Because campuses are spread regionally (Waldron, Mount Ida), some students may travel to satellite centers closer to home. On-campus mobility is straightforward, with buildings in walkable proximity or connected by walkways. Public transportation options are limited in rural areas, so personal vehicles are commonly used.