Online Master's Degrees in Arkansas: Comparing Programs

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Author: Shannon Daigle

Shannon Daigle

Author

Shannon Daigle is a higher education writer with a BA in Journalism & Public Relations from Flagler College. She specializes in creating clear, approachable content that helps students and professionals navigate career paths, degree programs, and essential student resources. Shannon has strong research skills and focuses on breaking down complex topics. She stays current with industry trends to provide readers with relevant and practical information for advancing their educational and professional journeys.

Expertise: Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.

Online LearningStudent SuccessGraduate Ed.

Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Jordan Cosselman

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Jordan Cosselman graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a BA in English. She joined the OMD team in 2021 with the goal of making graduate education more approachable for students from all walks of life. She's especially interested in helping students understand the ROI of a master's degree, so they feel confident in their investment.

Updated: 12/16/2025

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Updated: 12/16/2025

Inside Popular Online Master’s Programs in Arkansas

Top Fields for Arkansas Master’s Degrees

Based on job growth, salary potential, and Arkansas’s economic landscape, these fields offer strong outcomes for graduate students.

1. Business Administration and Management

Why it’s a top field: Arkansas is home to major employers like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, driving demand for skilled managers and executives. An MBA or management-focused master’s can lead to mid- and upper-level leadership roles, entrepreneurial opportunities, and strong salaries — especially when paired with Arkansas’s lower cost of living.

2. Education and Teaching

Why it’s a top field: Educators with a master’s degree may qualify for higher pay and specialized roles such as curriculum coordinator, instructional facilitator, or administrator. Online programs allow Arkansas teachers to meet licensure requirements while continuing to work.

3. Nursing and Healthcare

Why it’s a top field: Healthcare remains a high-growth sector due to nursing shortages, rural care gaps, and an aging population. Online MSN, MHA, and public health programs prepare professionals for advanced clinical, leadership, and administrative roles — often without stepping away from their careers.

4. Computer Science and Information Technology

Why it’s a top field: Arkansas is investing heavily in STEM and workforce development, increasing demand for professionals in software development, cybersecurity, analytics, and IT management. Many online IT master’s programs carry STEM designation, which can improve long-term career prospects.

5. Public Administration and Social Services

Why it’s a top field: Graduate degrees in public administration and social services prepare professionals to address challenges like rural development, healthcare access, and child welfare. Graduates often work as city managers, nonprofit directors, policy analysts, or licensed social workers.

Accreditation for Arkansas Master’s Programs

Accreditation ensures program quality and employer recognition. All major Arkansas universities hold regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Many programs also maintain specialized accreditation, which is especially important for licensure-driven fields like nursing and education.

Types of Online Master’s Programs: What to Know

Full-Time Programs

Full-time online programs typically take 12–18 months and require a heavier course load. They’re best for students who can dedicate significant time to study.

AR Examples:

• University of Arkansas — Advanced Standing MSW ​
• Arkansas State University — Online MBA (General)
• Southern Arkansas University — MBA With Social Entrepreneurship Emphasis
  

Part-Time Programs

Part-time programs allow students to balance school with work or family obligations. Most take two to three years to complete.

AR Examples:

• Arkansas State University — MS in Education (Curriculum & Instruction)
• University of Arkansas — MS in Operations Management
• University of Arkansas at Little Rock — Online MS in Information Science

Programs with No GRE Requirement

Worried about taking the GRE or GMAT? Many Arkansas programs waive standardized tests, focusing instead on academic history and professional experience.

AR Examples:

• Arkansas State University — M.S. in Engineering Management
• University of Arkansas — Online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
• Southern Arkansas University — MBA

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated formats allow motivated students to graduate faster through condensed terms or combined bachelor’s-to-master’s pathways.

AR Examples:

• Southern Arkansas University — BBA/MBA 4+1 Combined Program
• Arkansas State University — Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing)
• University of Central Arkansas — MAT in Teaching (Middle Level)

How Much Do Online Master’s Programs in Arkansas Cost?

Online master’s programs in Arkansas are generally more affordable than the national average. Tuition often ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 for a 30–36 credit program, especially since many schools extend in-state rates to online students.

When budgeting, consider both fixed costs (tuition and mandatory fees) and variable costs. Online programs often have specific fees and some programs in business or engineering might charge a premium. Variable costs include books, supplies, and any travel for hybrid components (though many programs are 100% online, meaning no relocation or commuting costs). You might actually save money studying online by continuing to work and avoiding moving or campus housing expenses.

Financial aid can offset costs: online students in Arkansas are eligible for federal aid, scholarships, and sometimes graduate assistantships or tuition discounts (for example, military service members often get reduced tuition). 

Below is a cost snapshot for three Arkansas universities’ online master’s programs:

FAQs from Arkansas Master’s Students

Do online master’s students pay in-state tuition at Arkansas universities, even if they live out of state?

Yes, in many cases online programs in Arkansas charge the in-state tuition rate to all students, no matter where you live. For example, University of Arkansas’s online students pay Arkansas resident tuition, and University of Central Arkansas’s fully online programs have a flat per-credit rate regardless of residency. This is great news for out-of-state students attracted to Arkansas schools — you can enroll online and avoid the usual non-resident surcharge. Always verify the policy for your specific program.

What kind of financial aid or scholarships can Arkansas online master’s students get?

Online master’s students in Arkansas are typically eligible for the same financial aid as on-campus students. This includes federal aid (Stafford loans, Grad PLUS loans) and filing the FAFSA, as well as any graduate scholarships or grants the university offers.

Some schools have special scholarships for online learners or certain fields — for instance, Arkansas State provides a 50% tuition scholarship for active military and spouses, and other universities may have assistance for teachers or nurses pursuing grad degrees. Employers in Arkansas also sometimes offer tuition reimbursement if your degree relates to your job.

Check for state-specific programs, too. Certain programs especially in education or healthcare might have loan-forgiveness or stipend opportunities if you work in high-need areas after graduation. Finally, universities often have payment plans to spread out costs.

Will employers and organizations accept an online master’s degree from an Arkansas university?

Yes, as long as your degree comes from an accredited institution, employers will recognize it as equivalent to any other master’s. Coursework and requirements are the same rigor, and often the same professors teach both online and face-to-face sections. Arkansas schools ensure their online programs meet identical academic standards as on-campus programs.

Many employers are familiar with online education and value the discipline it takes to succeed remotely. To strengthen employer confidence, you can highlight skills gained from online study, like time management and tech proficiency. With regional and professional accreditations in place, your Arkansas online master’s degree will be respected by employers and certification boards alike.

Can I work full-time while pursuing my online master’s in Arkansas?

Yes, and Arkansas’s online master’s programs are designed for working professionals. Arkansas State’s online degrees use 7-week courses, so you might take one course at a time and still finish in a reasonable timeframe.

A full-time job plus graduate study will fill up your weeks, so be realistic about how many classes you take concurrently in order to succeed in grad school. Many students start with one course to gauge the workload. Some employers offer flexible hours or tuition assistance to accommodate working adults.

Do I ever need to visit campus during an online master’s program in Arkansas?

Most online master’s programs in Arkansas are 100% online, meaning you won’t be required to come to campus. However, there are a few exceptions, so it’s wise to check as certain programs might have brief residency or practicum requirements. For example, an online MSN could require a short on-campus lab or orientation​ or an education program might ask you to visit campus for a capstone presentation.

If a program includes an internship or clinical practice, you usually can do it in your local area, but you’ll need to arrange a suitable site. Arkansas universities strive to make even these components accessible using virtual simulations or via partnerships with entities near where students live.

Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Arkansas