University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff logo

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR Public ยท Suburban www.uapb.edu
Accept Rate
57.54%
Grad Rate
40.6%
Enrollment
1,899
Avg SAT
916
Tuition
$9,019
Median Salary
$35,550
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers a close-knit, family-like atmosphere where students are known by name, not just a student ID. There's a strong sense of tradition and community pride, particularly through its legacy as an HBCU, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. The campus feels manageable and personal, allowing for meaningful connections with peers and professors.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

57.54%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 91675th Pctl
8801048
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 1675th Pctl
1418
1122436

Admissions Tips

As an open admission institution with a 57% acceptance rate, your application will be most competitive with a GPA above 2.5 and a completed FAFSA. Highlight any leadership, community service, or extracurricular activities in your application to stand out, as the university values well-rounded individuals. Be sure to connect with an admissions counselor early to discuss scholarship opportunities and ensure all your paperwork is in order.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
916
40080012001600
School range: 880โ€“1048

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

UAPB provides a solid foundation in high-demand fields like Business, Criminal Justice, and Health Professions, often with a focus on serving the community. Class sizes are typically smaller than at larger state universities, which allows for more direct interaction with faculty and personalized academic guidance. Students also have access to unique research opportunities, especially in areas like aquaculture and agriculture, through partnerships with federal agencies.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
13.5%
Criminal Justice
9.9%
Health Professions
9.3%
Biology & Biomedical
9.3%
Education
8.7%
Public Administration
5.1%
Agriculture
3.9%
Social Sciences
3.7%
Visual & Performing Arts
3.1%
Family & Consumer Science
3.1%
Psychology
2.8%
Communications
2.8%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

40.6%
Graduation Rate
64.5%
Retention Rate
1,899
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$9,019
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$11,679
After financial aid
Total Cost
$20,907
Cost of attendance/year
66.9%
Receive Pell Grants
58.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Pine Bluff

Life in Pine Bluff is centered around campus traditions, sporting events, and student organizations, fostering a strong sense of belonging. For off-campus fun, students often explore local parks, attend community festivals, or drive the short distance to Little Rock for a wider variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The city's slower pace allows for a focused academic experience while still offering access to regional attractions.

Local Rent Check

$690 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Pine Bluff
Explore Pine Bluff

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$36,076
$0Est. 4 Years: $36,076

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($35,550):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has its own campus police force that actively patrols and engages with the student community. As with any urban area, students are advised to practice general safety awareness, such as using the buddy system at night and being familiar with campus emergency resources.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Extremely affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, making it a great financial choice.
  • โœ“ High acceptance rate provides an accessible pathway to higher education for a diverse student body.
  • โœ“ Strong sense of community and support as an HBCU, with smaller class sizes for more personalized attention.
  • โœ“ Unique academic programs in high-demand fields like aquaculture and fisheries.

Cons

  • โœ— The 40.6% graduation rate is below the national average, which may be a concern for some prospective students.
  • โœ— The suburban setting of Pine Bluff offers fewer entertainment options compared to a major metropolitan area.
  • โœ— The 10-year median earnings are modest, suggesting graduates may need to strategically build their careers post-graduation.

Notable Alumni

Dr. Calvin Mackey
Former president of the university and a prominent figure in agricultural education.
Bill Walker
Former head football coach who led the team to multiple conference championships.
Dr. L. D. Britt
Distinguished surgeon and academic, known for his contributions to surgical education.

Frequently Asked Questions

UAPB is historically known for its strong programs in agriculture, particularly aquaculture and fisheries, which are among the best in the nation. It is also recognized for its excellence in business, education, and military science (ROTC). As an HBCU, it is celebrated for its close-knit community, rich traditions, and commitment to providing educational opportunities for diverse and underserved populations.

No, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is not considered a highly selective school. With an acceptance rate of 57.54%, it is more accessible than many other universities. The average SAT score for enrolled students is around 916, and the admissions process is holistic, meaning they consider more than just test scores. Students with a solid high school GPA and a completed application have a good chance of being admitted.

Campus life at UAPB is vibrant, close-knit, and deeply rooted in tradition. Students enjoy a strong sense of community, with a variety student organizations, Greek life, and athletic events, particularly football and basketball games, serving as key social hubs. The university's HBCU culture is central to the experience, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students can build lasting relationships.

For many students, particularly Arkansas residents and those from lower-income backgrounds, UAPB offers a strong return on investment. The low average net price of $11,679 and affordable tuition make it a financially prudent choice. Graduates with degrees in high-demand fields like Business and Health Professions can secure stable careers, and the skills learned can lead to long-term financial growth, making the investment worthwhile for the right student.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Pine Bluff School District Jefferson Regional Medical Center Simmons Bank U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Smart Start Score
41

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Suburban
  • Undergrad 2,332
  • In-State Tuition $9,019
  • Out-of-State $17,029
  • Zip Code 71601

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 44.7% โ™€ 55.3%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $11,679 and a high Pell Grant rate of nearly 67%, UAPB is a financially accessible option for many students. The 10-year median earnings of $35,550 provide a positive return on investment, especially given the low in-state tuition of just over $9,000. For Arkansas residents seeking an affordable degree that can lead to a stable career, UAPB presents a strong value proposition.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $9,019
Housing (12 mo) $8,280
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $24,499
With avg financial aid:
$11,679/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.