University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College
General Information – University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College
Overview
The University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College (UA‑PTC) is a public two‑year technical college serving Central Arkansas with an emphasis on accessibility, workforce development, and transfer education. Founded in 1945 as a vocational school, it evolved into a technical college and formally joined the University of Arkansas System in 2017, becoming UA‑PTC. The college maintains a strong focus on student-centric learning, offering over 80 accredited associate degrees, technical certificates, and proficiency certificates.
These programs are tailored to meet the needs of industry partners in fields such as allied health, information technology, business, culinary arts, and industrial technology. UA‑PTC also supports students aiming to transfer to four‑year universities by offering university-transfer associate degrees. The college’s mission centers around providing high-quality education that promotes student growth and economic development in its service region. With flexible scheduling options, including day, evening, and online classes, UA‑PTC accommodates a diverse mix of traditional learners, working adults, and dual‑enrolled high school students. The institution’s commitment to affordability, adaptability, and real-world instruction makes it a vital provider of technical and transfer education in Central Arkansas.
Contact Information
Address: 3000 West Scenic Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72118
Phone Number: (800) 621-7440
Email Address: admissions@uaptc.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1945 |
| Joined UA System | 2017 |
| Type | Public Two‑Year Technical College |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Campus Locations | North Little Rock Main Campus; other sites in Pulaski and Saline counties |
| Colors | Red and Blue |
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Rankings
| Metric | Status / Tier |
|---|---|
| National (Two-Year Colleges) | Recognized among regional technical colleges |
| Global Ranking | Not globally ranked as UA‑PTC is a two‑year technical institution |
| Economic Impact | Significant contribution to regional workforce development |
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Academics
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Faculties / Departments
- Allied Health and Human Services
- Business and Industry Training
- Information Technology / Technical Sciences
- Culinary Arts and Hospitality
- Industrial and Manufacturing Technologies
- University Transfer / Academic Studies
- Continuing Education / Workforce Training
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Courses and Programs / Majors
UA‑PTC offers a broad range of programs including:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing, Business, Industrial Technology, and Information Technology
- Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) for transfer students
- Technical Certificates in areas such as Welding, HVAC, Culinary Arts, Networking, and Health Information Technology
- Certificates of Proficiency for quick, stackable credentials in in-demand fields
- High school “Career Institute” programs allowing concurrent high school and college credit
Online Learning
UA‑PTC provides significant flexibility through its online education offerings. Many associate degree and certificate programs can be completed fully or partially online, which supports students who work or live off-campus. The online curriculum is designed for technical and academic rigor with virtual instruction, interactive modules, and faculty support. In addition to regular online courses, the college offers evening and weekend classes on its physical campuses, blending in-person and remote coursework to ensure accessibility and accommodate varied student schedules.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Range / Relevance |
|---|---|
| ACT/SAT | Not formally required; admission is more open and flexible |
| Placement / Assessment Tests | May be used for program placement given career-technical context |
Retention and Graduation Rates
UA‑PTC has moderate retention and graduation metrics typical of technical colleges. According to available data, the graduation rate is about 33% for students, which reflects the diverse goals of its student body, many of whom pursue short-term certificates or transfer rather than complete a full two-year degree. Retention is supported through advising, career services, and flexible scheduling that allows students to adapt their study trajectory based on work, life, and academic priorities.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
UA‑PTC maintains an inclusive admissions policy, making access to higher education practical for many students. Because it is a technical college, traditional GPA thresholds and standardized test requirements (ACT or SAT) are often de-emphasized compared to four-year universities, encouraging a broad range of students to apply and enroll.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Acceptance Rate
| Program Type | Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Technical / Associate / Certificate Programs | Very high (effectively open admission for most qualified applicants) |
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Application Requirements
To apply for UA‑PTC programs, prospective students must complete an application, submit high school or GED transcripts, and, when relevant, college transcripts for previous coursework. For technical or health-related programs, additional assessments, background checks, or program‑specific requirements may apply. While test scores like ACT or SAT are not always mandatory, they may be considered. The application process emphasizes accessibility, supporting students from varied academic and professional backgrounds.
Application Process
- Complete the UA‑PTC admissions application.
- Submit high school transcripts or GED credentials.
- Provide college transcripts if transferring from another institution.
- Fulfill program-specific assessments or prerequisites as needed.
- Attend orientation or advising (if required).
- Confirm enrollment and register for classes.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Early August (varies by year) |
| Spring Semester | December / January (varies) |
| Summer Term | March / April (varies by year) |
Essay Prompt
UA‑PTC generally does not require a formal personal essay for general admission into technical or associate programs. However, specific scholarships, competitive programs, or honors pathways may ask for a personal statement or short essay about career goals, motivation, and educational plans.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Scholarships
UA‑PTC offers a variety of financial aid and scholarship opportunities, including merit-based institutional scholarships, workforce development grants, technical education scholarships, and aid for transfer or dual-enrollment students. Financial support helps students afford tuition, fees, and materials, emphasizing the college’s mission to make education accessible and aligned with regional economic needs.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition (Per Credit) | $145 (approximate) |
| Out-of-State Tuition | Higher rate based on resident vs. non-resident credits (e.g., $9,450/year for non-residents reported) |
| Fees and Supplies | Variable depending on program and technical requirements |
Student Profile and Demographics – University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College
Student Demographics
The student population at UA‑PTC is widely diverse, comprising recent high school graduates, working adults seeking technical credentials, and career changers who require flexible part-time or online study. Gender representation tends to reflect the program mix, with technical trades, health, and business programs contributing different distributions. Age ranges are broad, with many students balancing education alongside full-time jobs or family obligations. Ethnically, the student body includes individuals from the central Arkansas region as well as out-of-state students, contributing to a dynamic campus community.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
UA‑PTC strongly supports low-income learners through grant aid, scholarships, and workforce programs designed to reduce financial barriers. Students with disabilities benefit from accommodations such as adaptive technologies, accessible classrooms, and academic support services to facilitate equitable access to technical training. The institution’s commitment to inclusion is reflected in its mission and strategic values, ensuring that diverse student needs are actively addressed.
Student Body
| Metric | Approximate Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Around 6,500 (varies by source) |
| Full-Time / Part-Time Mix | Significant portion part-time or evening students |
| International Students | Smaller proportion; most students are regional or in-state |
University Diversity
Diversity is central to UA‑PTC’s mission. The college promotes an inclusive culture that empowers students from all walks of life, regardless of socioeconomic status, educational background, or age. Through accessible programs, flexible scheduling, and strong student support systems, UA‑PTC enables non-traditional and adult learners to pursue technical and transfer education without sacrificing their other responsibilities. The institution values equity, belonging, and community engagement, fostering a sense of belonging through partnerships with local businesses, workforce development councils, and civic organizations. Students from underrepresented groups are supported through scholarship programs, advising, and peer networks, helping to break down barriers to education and workforce entry. By prioritizing diversity, UA‑PTC builds a campus climate where innovation and collaboration can thrive in service to students and the broader Central Arkansas region.
Average Earnings
Graduates from UA‑PTC’s technical and applied science programs often enter well-paying jobs soon after completion. Earnings vary significantly depending on field, but many students in high-demand areas like health technology, industrial trades, and information technology earn entry-level wages that are competitive in the local economy. Over time, graduates benefit from career advancement, stackable credentials, and opportunities for further education or promotion. UA‑PTC plays a crucial role in supporting regional workforce needs and generating income for students and the community through its graduates’ contributions to the labor market.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
UA‑PTC employs a dedicated team of full-time faculty, part-time instructors, and industry professionals who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Support staff in academic advising, student services, financial aid, and workforce development collaborate closely with students to guide them through program requirements, career planning, and success strategies. Personnel are aligned with the college’s student-centered values and regional economic mission.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at UA‑PTC are experts in their technical discipline, combining academic credentials with practical industry experience in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, culinary arts, business, and information technology. Many instructors maintain certification, professional licensure, or ongoing industry consultation to ensure curriculum relevance and alignment with current workforce standards. Their dedication to teaching, mentoring, and continuous improvement contributes to UA‑PTC’s reputation as a high-quality, career-focused institution that prepares graduates for meaningful work and further education.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
UA‑PTC is primarily a commuter institution, and it does not offer traditional residential housing. Student life is centered on practical learning, workforce engagement, and community involvement. The main campus in North Little Rock includes instructional buildings, a library, a performance arts center, and modern labs. Students engage in campus clubs, workforce training councils, and technical student organizations. Events such as career fairs, skills competitions, and industry panels support student interaction, leadership, and professional development. While on-campus residential life is not a key component, the college fosters community through clubs, student support services, and partnerships with local employers.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via major roadways in North Little Rock, and students typically commute using personal vehicles or regional transportation options. Parking is available for students, and the urban location supports easy access to public transit in Central Arkansas. The campus layout is pedestrian-friendly, allowing students to navigate between buildings conveniently. Its proximity to industry partners and business centers supports efficient commuting for students who balance work and academic responsibilities.