Arkansas Baptist College

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Arkansas Baptist College

  • Overview & Academics

    Arkansas Baptist College (ABC), founded in 1884, is a private, historically Black college in Little Rock, Arkansas. It is affiliated with the Baptist Church and places a strong emphasis on liberal arts and professional programs. ABC offers Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees in diverse fields, preparing students for leadership and service.

    • Academic Schools and Programs
      • School of Arts & Sciences (includes Criminal Justice, General Studies, Religious Studies)
      • School of Business (Business Administration, Entrepreneurship)
      • School of Education (Early Childhood Education)
      • School of Religious Studies
    • Special Programs: Honors Program, Career Pathways Initiative, TRIO Student Support Services, and articulation with local community colleges.
  • Admissions

    • Open admissions policy, encouraging access for a diverse student body
    • Requires submission of high school transcript/GED
    • Standardized test scores (ACT/SAT) may be used for placement but are not mandatory for general admission
    • Online application available on the college website with rolling admission deadlines
  • Cost

    • Tuition (2023-2024): Approximately $8,760 per year (full-time undergraduate)
    • Fees: Around $1,380 annually
    • Room & Board: Estimated $5,000–$7,500 per year (depending on residence & meal plan)
    • Financial aid available: Federal grants, institutional scholarships, work-study, merit- and need-based aid
  • Student Population

    • Enrollment: Approximately 500–800 students (varies by year)
    • Predominantly African American student body, serving a significant number of first-generation college students
    • Relatively small class sizes allow personalized attention from faculty
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • One of the nation’s distinguished historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)
    • Recognized for commitment to access, affordability, and service leadership
    • Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
  • Campus & Culture

    • Urban campus located in central Little Rock, close to historic landmarks and business districts
    • Facilities include residence halls, classroom buildings, a chapel, an academic library, and a fitness center
    • Faith-based community with ongoing chapel services, leadership development, and spiritual growth opportunities
  • Athletics & Traditions

    • Sports teams known as the Buffaloes
    • Member of the NAIA and the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC)
    • Men’s and women’s basketball, football, baseball, softball, and track and field
    • Popular campus traditions include Homecoming, Founder’s Week, and Buffalo Spirit Day
  • Mission

    Arkansas Baptist College’s mission is to develop competent Christian leaders and promote academic excellence, spiritual and moral values, and social responsibility. The institution focuses on preparing students for personal, professional, and community leadership in a global society.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • Governed by a president and board of trustees
    • Current president is a committed advocate for educational access, HBCU advancement, and student success
    • Recent initiatives include campus renovations, expansion of online learning, and new partnerships with local employers
  • Programs

    • Associate of Arts, Associate of Science degrees
    • Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in areas such as:
      • Business Administration
      • Human Services & Social Work
      • Religious Studies
      • English
      • Criminal Justice
      • Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Pre-professional and teacher preparation pathways
  • Campus Life

    • Student-centered campus with residence halls and dining facilities
    • Active student government and peer mentoring systems
    • Support services include counseling, academic advising, tutoring, and wellness programs
    • Community service and leadership development are integral components of student life
  • Student Organizations

    • Student Government Association
    • Religious Fellowship Groups & Gospel Choirs
    • Greek life (historically Black fraternities and sororities)
    • Academic honor societies
    • Clubs focused on arts, culture, professional development, and community service
  • Admission Stats

    • Open admissions policy ensures broad accessibility
    • Acceptance Rate: Typically 100% due to open admissions structure
    • Retention Rate (First-year full-time students): Approximately 45–55%
    • Average ACT/SAT: Not required, but those who submit tend to have scores near the national average for open-access institutions
    • Student-faculty ratio: Approximately 14:1