When it comes to choosing a place to pursue your educational goals, whether at the graduate or undergraduate level, there are many boxes to check. Things like:
- Does the university have a commitment to bettering the world with a strong research focus? (The U of A is one of the nation’s leading public research institutions – among 3% with the Carnegie Foundation’s highest research ranking.)
- Is there diversity in the student body and the programs offered? (The U of A hosts students from 120 countries and offers over 200 academic programs.)
- Do students receive personal support and attention when they need it? (Nearly 50% of classes at the U of A have fewer than 20 students despite over 27,000 total students. The student-to-faculty ratio is only 19:1.)
However, there are many other reasons to consider a University aside from academics. After all, you will spend years of your life on and around a campus and college town. Fortunately, the University of Arkansas checks those boxes as well with things like:
Campus Life
The University of Arkansas offers a vibrant campus life that is culturally, intellectually and socially enriching.
On campus you can find state-of-the art- workspaces, restaurants, exercise facilities and more. Nearly 400 registered student organizations exist to cater to all student needs, from special interests to recreation to professional organizations.
You will have the opportunity to attend art exhibits, concerts and music festivals, theater productions and film screenings, distinguished visiting speakers and much more. These activities are especially appealing to graduate students with families, as there are a multitude of cheap or free activities available year-round with a close proximity to campus.
Campus Location
Northwest Arkansas is consistently ranked as one of the top 5 best places to live in the U.S. due to its low cost of living, low unemployment rate, easy commutes, and more.
It is easy to get moving with Northwest Arkansas’ linked trails. These include numerous newly developed mountain bike trails (including one on campus itself), many of which are connected to the over 36-mile Razorback Regional Greenway paved trail system.
Dickson Street is one of the state’s most popular entertainment districts and is just a short walk from campus. In fact, a portion of the street is located on campus, connecting the university to Fayetteville’s downtown historic district and nearby town square. It offers a variety of restaurants, boutiques, galleries and clubs unique to the area as well as one of “America’s Favorite Farmer’s Markets.”
Fayetteville is a friendly place where you will always feel welcome to be yourself and have a good time. There are more than 180 festivals and events that happen throughout the year, from film festivals to summer concert series in the park to Bikes, Blues and BBQ – the world’s largest charity motorcycle rally.
The Natural State Surrounds You
Arkansas is a natural wonder of forests, mountains and lakes.
Some of the nation’s best outdoor amenities and most spectacular hiking trails are located nearby. Devil’s Den State Park is a short driving distance from Fayetteville while Beaver Lake is 30 minutes to the northeast. Speaking of aquatic activity, the Buffalo River, America’s first National River, is only a one-hour drive to the east. Ample opportunities for camping, floating, rock climbing and more can be found in the areas around its banks.
Want to stay local? One of Fayetteville’s highlights are its many parks and trails, which are great for biking and hiking or just a scenic walk.
Home on the Hill
The University of Arkansas is a great school with many resources, but there are more reasons to study at the University of Arkansas besides the school itself.
The community, both on and around campus, is vibrant and provides ample opportunity for a fulfilling life. The city of Fayetteville itself provides a beautiful backdrop that is filled with activity for when you need to take a break from your studies. And when you need to get away from civilization – perhaps even studying in nature itself – there are plenty of outdoor options within a short drive, bike ride or walk.
Does this sound too good to be true? Let us show you ourselves. Schedule a campus tour and let us show you all of the reasons why the University of Arkansas is a great place to live, work and study!
