Best Associate's Computer Science Degree Programs in Arkansas
University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton — Morrilton, AR
Hakia Insight: UACCM's partnerships with Acxiom and Walmart Technology create a direct hire pipeline from associate degree completion, making placement outcomes measurable and immediate rather than speculative.
At the associate's level, strong industry partnerships with local technology companies create direct pathways from classroom to career for computer science students. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through internships and cooperative education opportunities that often lead to immediate employment upon graduation. Students develop proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, and C++, while also gaining expertise in database management, web development, and network administration. The curriculum balances theoretical computer science concepts with practical application, preparing graduates for both immediate workforce entry and seamless transfer to four-year institutions. Laboratory facilities feature current industry-standard software and hardware, giving students experience with the same tools they'll use professionally.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Acxiom Corporation, Walmart Technology, Local school districts, Healthcare systems.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
- Arkansas State University
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Computer Support Specialist
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Web Developer
- Database Assistant
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
Location Advantages:
University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College — North Little Rock, AR
Hakia Insight: Pulaski Tech's cloud computing-first curriculum addresses Walmart Technology's and Acxiom's actual hiring demands in Arkansas—students graduate skilled in infrastructure they know these regional giants actively deploy.
At the associate's level, advanced cloud computing curriculum prepares students for the rapidly expanding market in enterprise cloud solutions and infrastructure management. Students gain hands-on experience with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform through dedicated lab environments that simulate real-world enterprise scenarios. The program integrates traditional computer science fundamentals with emerging technologies like containerization, microservices architecture, and DevOps practices. Industry-experienced instructors maintain current certifications and bring cutting-edge practices directly from their consulting work with Fortune 500 companies. This metropolitan location provides access to internships with major corporations, state government agencies, and growing tech startups that specifically recruit from the program.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Acxiom Corporation, Walmart Technology, Arkansas government agencies, Baptist Health.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
- Arkansas State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Cloud Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Technician
Included Certifications
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages:
University of Arkansas Grantham — LIttle Rock, AR
Key Distinction: Arkansas Grantham specializes in competency-based online computer science education tailored for working professionals and military personnel seeking flexible degree completion.
Hakia Insight: Arkansas Grantham's competency-based model means military personnel and working professionals can compress a two-year degree based on demonstrated skills rather than seat time, preserving tuition benefits while fast-tracking employment.
At the associate's level, university of Arkansas Grantham delivers computer science education through flexible online programs designed specifically for working professionals and military personnel seeking career advancement. The curriculum emphasizes applied computing skills with concentrations in software development, information systems, and cybersecurity that align with current industry demands. Students engage with interactive virtual labs, collaborative online projects, and industry-standard development environments that mirror professional workplace technology. Faculty bring extensive industry experience from companies like IBM, Microsoft, and government agencies, ensuring coursework reflects current best practices and emerging technologies. The program's competency-based approach allows students to accelerate through material they already understand while spending additional time mastering challenging concepts. Coursework includes programming in multiple languages, database design, network security, and project management methodologies that prepare graduates for technical leadership roles. The university's focus on adult learners means support services are designed around busy schedules, with 24/7 technical support and flexible assignment deadlines. Students complete hands-on capstone projects that demonstrate their ability to design, implement, and deploy complete software solutions. The program maintains strong connections with employers who actively recruit from the graduate pool, particularly in government contracting and enterprise software development sectors.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5.
Location Advantages: Online access to national job marketMilitary-friendly credentials
NorthWest Arkansas Community College — Bentonville, AR
Hakia Insight: NorthWest Arkansas Community College sits in a region where Walmart, Tyson, and J.B. Hunt maintain technology headquarters—proximity that translates to internship offers arriving before graduation announcements.
At the associate's level, corporate partnerships with Fortune 500 headquarters in the region create unparalleled internship and job placement opportunities directly with companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt. Students work on real projects for these major employers while completing their coursework, often receiving job offers before graduation. The program emphasizes enterprise-level software development, data analytics, and supply chain technology that these companies specifically need. State-of-the-art facilities mirror corporate IT environments, giving students experience with the same enterprise software and development methodologies they'll use professionally. This direct pipeline to major employers results in starting salaries significantly above national averages for associate degree graduates.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Walmart, Tyson Foods, J.B. Hunt Transport, Simmons Foods.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
- Arkansas Tech University
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Cloud Support Associate
- Network Support Technician
- IT Help Desk Specialist
Included Certifications
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- CompTIA A+
- Cisco CCNA
Location Advantages:
Arkansas State University Mid-South — West Memphis, AR
Hakia Insight: Arkansas State Mid-South's cybersecurity focus directly addresses FedEx and regional banking hiring priorities, meaning job-ready credentials that regional employers actively recruit for rather than generic CS associate degrees.
At the associate's level, cutting-edge cybersecurity focus sets this computer science program apart in the regional market where data protection expertise is increasingly valuable. Students master both offensive and defensive security techniques while building fundamental programming and systems administration skills. The curriculum covers ethical hacking, network security protocols, digital forensics, and risk assessment methodologies alongside traditional computer science coursework in algorithms, data structures, and software development. Faculty bring real-world cybersecurity experience from government and private sector roles, ensuring instruction reflects current threat landscapes and industry best practices. Graduates enter a high-demand field with specialized skills that command premium starting salaries in both public and private sectors.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: FedEx, International Paper, Local government agencies, Regional banks.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arkansas State University
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock
- University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Network Security Technician
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior System Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
Location Advantages:
Southern Arkansas University Tech — Camden, AR
Hakia Insight: Southern Arkansas Tech's manufacturing automation specialization solves a concrete regional need: Murphy Oil and International Paper need programmers who understand both code and industrial control systems, not just pure software development.
At the associate's level, manufacturing automation and industrial control systems specialization addresses the critical need for programmers who understand both software development and industrial processes. Students learn to program programmable logic controllers (PLCs), develop human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and integrate computer systems with manufacturing equipment. This unique blend of computer science and industrial technology creates graduates who can bridge the gap between IT departments and production floors. The curriculum includes traditional programming languages alongside specialized industrial software used in oil refining, timber processing, and chemical manufacturing. Local petrochemical and manufacturing companies actively recruit graduates for roles that combine technology skills with industrial knowledge.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Computer Science — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Computer Science — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Murphy Oil, International Paper, Domtar, Local manufacturing companies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Southern Arkansas University
- Arkansas Tech University
- University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Industrial Control Technician
- Manufacturing Systems Programmer
- Help Desk Technician
- Process Control Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- Rockwell Automation Certification
Location Advantages:
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas — Helena, AR
Key Distinction: Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas provides affordable Computer Science education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Phillips Community College's Helena location serves rural Arkansas with affordable pathways to four-year transfer programs, lowering the cost barrier for first-generation students who otherwise might skip higher education.
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas offers Computer Science programs in Helena, AR. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana — Hope, AR
Key Distinction: University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Hope-Texarkana's position on the Arkansas-Texas border positions students to transfer into four-year programs at both state systems, creating flexible regional mobility for a population with limited local options.
University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana offers Computer Science programs in Hope, AR. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville — Batesville, AR
Key Distinction: University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville provides affordable Computer Science education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Batesville's community college model combines affordability with proximity to manufacturing and logistics corridors in central Arkansas, making it an efficient pathway for rural students entering the state's industrial tech job market.
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville offers Computer Science programs in Batesville, AR. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Arkansas State University Three Rivers — Malvern, AR
Key Distinction: Arkansas State University Three Rivers offers comprehensive Computer Science programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Arkansas State University Three Rivers' associate degree serves as a direct pipeline to the Northwest Arkansas tech corridor—students can transfer into University of Arkansas or John Brown University's bachelor programs while already building industry connections through regional employers like Walmart and J.B. Hunt.
Arkansas State University Three Rivers offers Computer Science programs in Malvern, AR. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Degree Programs in Arkansas
University of Arkansas — Fayetteville, AR
Key Distinction: Two-course capstone sequence (Capstone I and II) in fourth year providing comprehensive capstone project experience. Structured eight-semester degree plan with suggested course sequence
Hakia Insight: University of Arkansas's two-course capstone sequence in year four is rare among regional programs; paired with the High-Performance Computing Lab and proximity to Walmart's engineering teams in Bentonville, undergraduates can complete research-grade projects that directly mirror industry work before graduation.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (B.S.C.S.) at University of Arkansas is a comprehensive 122-credit program designed as an eight-semester degree plan. The curriculum emphasizes foundational computer science theory and practical application, with a structured progression from introductory programming through advanced topics including algorithms, operating systems, software engineering, and database management. Students complete a two-course capstone sequence (Capstone I and II) in their fourth year, integrating their knowledge through a comprehensive project. The program requires completion of core computer science courses (CSCE), mathematics including discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and combinatorics, and supplementary coursework in engineering, ethics, and general education. Hands-on experience is embedded throughout the curriculum via laboratory coursework and project-based learning in software engineering and database courses.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- High-Performance Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Walmart (corporate)
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services (corporate)
- Tyson Foods (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: CSCE core courses (Programming Foundations I & II, Digital Design, Computer Organization, Programming Paradigms, Operating Systems, Software Engineering, Database Management Systems, Algorithms, Computer Networks, Formal Languages and Computability), Mathematics courses (Calculus I & II, Discrete Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Combinatorics, Engineering Probability and Statistics), Physics (University Physics I & II), Chemistry (University Chemistry I & II), Engineering fundamentals (Introduction to Engineering I & II), General Education requirements (Composition, Technical Composition, History, Fine Arts, Social Sciences, Public Speaking, Ethics and the Professions), Capstone I and Capstone II (final year project sequence), CSCE electives (4000-level courses), General electives
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northwest Arkansas tech hub with major employer presence (Walmart, J.B. Hunt, Tyson Foods)Growing startup ecosystem in Fayetteville
University of Central Arkansas — Conway, AR
Key Distinction: UCA's computer science program stands out for its project-intensive curriculum that emphasizes collaborative software development using current industry tools and methodologies.
Hakia Insight: UCA's data science concentration fills a specific market gap—Acxiom (a data analytics giant) is headquartered in Little Rock, meaning graduates have immediate local demand for their specialization rather than competing nationally for generic CS roles.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Data Science concentration emphasizes extracting knowledge and insights from massive amounts of structured and unstructured data. The program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours in computer science and computer engineering, approximately 24 credit hours in mathematics and natural sciences, plus the university general education program. Core courses include data structures, networking, algorithms, database systems, programming languages, computer architecture, object-oriented software development, artificial intelligence, operating systems, information security, data mining, and software engineering. Students can elect specialized courses in Linux/UNIX systems, parallel computing, game programming, multimedia computing, mobile programming, web technologies, data clustering, and emerging topics in computer science and cybersecurity. Graduates are prepared to work as well-educated computing professionals capable of applying theoretical and practical knowledge to develop software solutions, function effectively in teams, and maintain skills as the field evolves.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Acxiom (corporate)
- Windstream (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Little Rock technology sectorCentral Arkansas business corridor
Arkansas State University — Jonesboro, AR
Key Distinction: Hands-on projects and labs guided by expert faculty. Focus on practical application of programming and problem-solving
Hakia Insight: Arkansas State's FedEx partnership is more than a name on a website; the logistics giant's Memphis technology operations sit 90 minutes away, creating internship pipelines that often convert to full-time offers before graduation.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Arkansas State University is a 120-credit program designed to develop expertise in programming, problem-solving, and computer systems. Students engage in hands-on projects and labs guided by expert faculty, covering algorithms, data structures, operating systems, and software engineering. The curriculum prepares graduates for high-demand careers across technology, finance, healthcare, education, and government sectors. Graduates are equipped to create and maintain the software and systems that power modern organizations, with roles including web development, network administration, software development, and IT project management.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
Location Advantages: Proximity to Memphis tech hubAccess to FedEx Technology operations
University of Arkansas Grantham — LIttle Rock, AR
Key Distinction: Fully online delivery. Designed for working professionals
Hakia Insight: University of Arkansas Grantham's 2.5 GPA requirement combined with full online delivery and military-friendly accreditation creates an unusual advantage for career-changers and service members—you're not competing against 22-year-olds in cohort-based selection.
The University of Arkansas Grantham's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is designed as a fully online program for working professionals and non-traditional students. The curriculum covers fundamental computer science concepts including programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, and database management. Students complete core computer science courses alongside general education requirements, with electives allowing for specialization in areas like cybersecurity or software development. The program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning with real-world applications. As an online program, it offers flexibility for students to balance education with work and personal commitments. Career services support includes resume assistance and job placement resources.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.5.
Location Advantages: Online access to national job marketMilitary-friendly credentials
Lyon College — Batesville, AR
Key Distinction: Lyon College's computer science program offers the intimacy of working one-on-one with faculty mentors in a liberal arts setting that encourages interdisciplinary computational applications.
Hakia Insight: Lyon College's one-on-one faculty mentorship model works because it's small enough that CS professors know every student's research interests; this translates to customized independent study projects and stronger graduate school recommendation letters than larger programs can produce.
At the bachelor's level, lyon College's computer science program leverages the intimate liberal arts environment to provide highly personalized technical education with exceptional faculty mentorship. With typical class sizes under 15 students, every computer science major receives individual attention that enables customized learning paths and research opportunities typically available only to graduate students at larger institutions. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving across disciplines, encouraging students to apply computational thinking to fields like biology, economics, and digital arts through interdisciplinary projects and double majors. Students work directly with faculty on research projects from their sophomore year, gaining experience in areas such as algorithm development, data analysis, and software engineering. The program's flexibility allows motivated students to pursue independent studies and create specialized concentrations that align with their career interests. Lyon's computer science graduates consistently gain acceptance to prestigious graduate programs and secure positions at major technology companies, despite the program's small size. The college's strong relationships with alumni create mentorship opportunities and career connections that extend far beyond graduation. Recent additions to the curriculum include courses in machine learning, cybersecurity, and mobile app development, ensuring graduates have current technical skills alongside strong theoretical foundations.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Small college environment fostering close industry connectionsAccess to Arkansas Delta region emerging tech initiatives
University of Arkansas at Little Rock — Little Rock, AR
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation by Computing Accreditation Commission. Close ties with local industries
Hakia Insight: UA Little Rock's ABET accreditation combined with the Arkansas Biosciences Institute partnership creates a specific edge for healthcare IT—the state's biosciences corridor values graduates who can bridge clinical and computational domains.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UA Little Rock is a 120-credit program accredited by ABET that develops strong foundations in problem-solving, logical thinking, and analytical skills. The curriculum covers programming languages, data structures and algorithms, assembly language, networking, operating systems, software engineering, database systems, graphics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The program maintains close ties with local industries and encourages students to participate in cooperative and internship opportunities. Graduates are prepared for careers in the computing industry and advanced computer science studies. The program emphasizes practical application through industry partnerships and experiential learning opportunities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Arkansas Biosciences Institute (nonprofit)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Little Rock technology hubState government technology sectorHealthcare technology corridor
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus — Magnolia, AR
Key Distinction: Southern Arkansas University's computer science program delivers comprehensive technical training at exceptional value, with extensive hands-on learning and strong regional employer connections.
Hakia Insight: Southern Arkansas University's strength lies in honest value: regional employers actively recruit from the program because graduates arrive ready for immediate contribution rather than requiring months of onboarding.
At the bachelor's level, southern Arkansas University's computer science program focuses on building versatile programming skills and systems knowledge that prepare graduates for diverse technology careers across multiple industries. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through extensive laboratory work, group projects, and internship opportunities that connect classroom learning to professional practice. Students develop expertise in multiple programming languages, database design, network administration, and software engineering methodologies while building strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities. The program offers flexibility for students to concentrate in areas like information systems, software development, or computer networks based on their career interests. Faculty combine academic expertise with industry experience, bringing real-world perspectives into coursework and advising. Students benefit from small class sizes that enable personalized instruction and collaborative learning environments. The program maintains relationships with regional employers who provide internship opportunities and recruit graduates for full-time positions. Recent curriculum updates have incorporated cloud computing, mobile development, and cybersecurity content to ensure graduates have current industry-relevant skills. SAU's computer science students regularly participate in programming competitions and technology conferences that broaden their professional networks and enhance their technical skills. The program's affordable tuition and strong job placement record make it an attractive option for students seeking quality technical education with excellent return on investment.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Arkansas's growing technology sectorConnections to regional business community
Hendrix College — Conway, AR
Hakia Insight: Hendrix's dual degree pathway with Columbia and Washington University in St. Louis is a hidden gem—you earn an ABET-accredited engineering degree from a top-tier institution while paying substantially less than going directly to those universities.
At the bachelor's level, hendrix offers a dual degree engineering program with Columbia University and Washington University in St. Louis, providing access to highly competitive ABET-accredited programs with higher admission probability than direct entry. Students interested in computer engineering major in computer science at Hendrix before transferring to complete their engineering degree.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET-accredited engineering programs
Location Advantages:
John Brown University — Siloam Springs, AR
Key Distinction: Senior capstone project. Faith and learning integration
Hakia Insight: John Brown University's capstone projects often directly solve real problems for Walmart Labs and other Northwest Arkansas employers, meaning your final project becomes a portfolio piece that carries immediate hiring weight.
John Brown University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program emphasizes both technical excellence and Christian worldview integration. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical application through hands-on projects and industry-relevant coursework. Students complete core computer science courses including programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and systems design. The program requires a senior capstone project where students work on real-world problems, often in collaboration with local businesses or organizations. JBU's small class sizes enable close faculty mentorship and undergraduate research opportunities. The program integrates faith and learning throughout the curriculum, preparing students to be ethical technology leaders. Students can pursue internships and co-op experiences, with the career services office facilitating connections to regional and national employers. The program's liberal arts foundation ensures graduates are well-rounded communicators and critical thinkers, preparing them for diverse career paths in software development, cybersecurity, and technology management.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Northwest Arkansas tech corridor accessProximity to Walmart Labs and other major employers
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith — Fort Smith, AR
Key Distinction: Small class sizes with personalized attention. Senior capstone project with industry partnerships
Hakia Insight: UA-Fort Smith's small class sizes combined with capstone industry partnerships mean you're solving problems for regional healthcare systems and logistics companies in real time—your senior year becomes your first consulting engagement.
The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program emphasizes practical application and industry readiness. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with hands-on programming experience across multiple languages and platforms. Students complete core computer science courses including data structures, algorithms, software engineering, and database systems, alongside mathematics and general education requirements. The program requires a capstone senior project where students work on real-world problems, often in collaboration with local industry partners. Internship opportunities are strongly encouraged and facilitated through the university's connections with regional technology companies and healthcare organizations. The program maintains small class sizes that allow for personalized attention from faculty. Students gain experience with current industry tools and technologies through modern computer labs and equipment. Career preparation is integrated throughout the curriculum with emphasis on professional development, technical communication, and project management skills.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Arkansas River Valley logistics hubRegional healthcare technology sector
Best Master's Computer Science Degree Programs in Arkansas
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus — Magnolia, AR
Key Distinction: Flexible delivery: hybrid, on-campus, and fully online options. Affordable tuition structure
Hakia Insight: Southern Arkansas' MCIS program costs roughly half what flagship state universities charge, yet maintains flexibility with hybrid/online/on-campus options; the trade-off is honest and the program size (one of the largest in the USA) proves employers don't penalize graduates for the lower price tag.
The Master of Science in Computer and Information Science (MCIS) at Southern Arkansas University is one of the largest and most affordable computer science graduate programs in the USA. The program offers flexible hybrid, on-campus, and online delivery formats, completable in 2 years (based on 2 classes per semester including summer). Students pursue the Information Technology option focusing on web technologies and software engineering, ideal for career switchers. The 30-credit curriculum emphasizes both theory and applications with 12 core hours, 12 required IT courses, and 6 elective hours. Faculty members have extensive industry experience. The program prepares graduates for roles including programmer, web developer, database developer, information systems project manager, and software engineer. Career advancement opportunities include mid-career positions in software engineering and project management, with applicability to doctoral studies pursuits.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer and Information Science - Information Technology Option — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Location Advantages: Access to Arkansas's growing technology sectorConnections to regional business community
Arkansas State University — Jonesboro, AR
Key Distinction: Arkansas State's computer science program combines research opportunities with strong industry connections, offering specialized tracks in high-demand areas like cybersecurity and data analytics.
Hakia Insight: Arkansas State's master's program leverages FedEx's proximity to offer specialized tracks in cybersecurity and data analytics that track actual hiring needs in Memphis's logistics and operations tech sector—you're learning what companies are actively paying to solve.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at Arkansas State University is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers and sharpen technical skills. The program offers 33 credit hours of advanced coursework covering machine learning, cloud computing, advanced algorithms, and specialized areas including high-performance computing, cybersecurity, and data science. Students gain practical experience through research projects and collaborative development. The program prepares graduates for high-demand roles across technology, finance, healthcare, defense, and manufacturing sectors, including positions as data scientists, cybersecurity managers, network architects, and AI systems developers. No information is provided regarding thesis vs. coursework track options, part-time/evening availability, graduate assistantship stipends, embedded professional certifications, or specific salary advancement data.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
Location Advantages: Proximity to Memphis tech hubAccess to FedEx Technology operations
University of Arkansas at Little Rock — Little Rock, AR
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. project track options. Full-time and part-time study available
Hakia Insight: UA Little Rock's thesis vs. project track option gives you control over your exit strategy; the thesis route strengthens PhD applications while the project track appeals to working professionals who need to ship value immediately.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at UA Little Rock provides a solid theoretical and practical foundation for careers in computing and advanced graduate studies. The program offers flexibility for working professionals with both full-time and part-time study options. Students must complete either a thesis or project track to earn the degree. The program includes opportunities for embedded professional certifications, such as the National Cyber Teaching Academy Certification and a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate. Graduates pursue roles as software engineers, systems analysts, security analysts, and machine learning engineers at major employers including FIS, Dillard's Technology, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, and Acxiom.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Arkansas Biosciences Institute (nonprofit)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Little Rock technology hubState government technology sectorHealthcare technology corridor
University of Arkansas — Fayetteville, AR
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework track options for flexibility. Advisory committee customization of course selection
Hakia Insight: University of Arkansas' advisory committee customization of course selection combined with the High-Performance Computing Lab means a 30-credit thesis track can compete with research-heavy programs costing significantly more—you're essentially designing your own specialized degree within the program framework.
The University of Arkansas M.S. in Computer Science offers two distinct pathways for working professionals: a thesis option (30 credits) combining 6 credits of thesis research with 24 credits of coursework, or a coursework-only option (33 credits) emphasizing applied learning. Both tracks require a minimum 3.0 GPA and culminate in comprehensive oral examinations. The program emphasizes software and theory with faculty research in cybersecurity, machine learning, data analytics, computer vision, and blockchain. Students benefit from flexible course selection approved by advisory committees, with opportunities to apply graduate-level coursework from undergraduate degree completion (if 3.5+ GPA achieved within two years prior). The program requires continuous enrollment and maintains rigorous B-level minimum grades. While specific salary advancement, assistantship stipends, employer partnerships, and part-time/evening schedule availability are not detailed in catalog materials, the program aligns with high-demand computer science specializations supporting career advancement in technology sectors.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- High-Performance Computing Lab
Industry Partners
- Walmart (corporate)
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services (corporate)
- Tyson Foods (corporate)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Requirements: Thesis option: 6 credits CSCE 6100V Master's Thesis plus 24 credits coursework; minimum 15 hours CSCE 5000-level courses, Coursework option: 33 credits total; minimum 21 hours CSCE 5000-level courses, Cumulative GPA 3.0 or higher on all graduate-level courses, Three recommendation letters, Statement of Purpose and Resume, Removal of any deficiency courses assigned upon admission, Comprehensive oral examination (thesis defense for thesis track; coursework examination in final semester for coursework track), Minimum B grade or higher in all courses; second grade below B results in program termination, Continuous enrollment except summers (thesis option)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Northwest Arkansas tech hub with major employer presence (Walmart, J.B. Hunt, Tyson Foods)Growing startup ecosystem in Fayetteville
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff — Pine Bluff, AR
Key Distinction: UAPB's computer science program combines HBCU mentorship traditions with hands-on project experience, creating an intimate learning environment that produces job-ready graduates.
Hakia Insight: UAPB's master's program leverages its HBCU legacy to offer mentorship-intensive cohorts where professors know every student by name—a model that produces job-ready graduates precisely because the small scale forces accountability that larger programs can't match.
At the master's level, the computer science program at University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff emphasizes practical software development skills through project-based learning and close mentorship relationships between faculty and students. Students gain hands-on experience with programming languages including Java, C++, and Python while working on real-world applications that address community and regional technology needs. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with applied computing, featuring courses in data structures, algorithms, database systems, and software engineering. As an HBCU, the program maintains small class sizes that enable individualized attention and collaborative learning environments. Faculty members bring industry experience to the classroom, helping students understand how computer science concepts translate into professional practice. The program has produced graduates who work in software development, systems analysis, and information technology roles across Arkansas and beyond. Students participate in coding competitions, internship programs, and capstone projects that showcase their technical abilities to potential employers. The university's commitment to supporting underrepresented students in STEM fields creates a supportive environment where computer science majors can develop both technical expertise and leadership skills. Recent program enhancements include updated laboratory facilities and expanded course offerings in emerging areas like cybersecurity and mobile application development.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Computer Science — 1-2 years, online
Location Advantages: Access to Little Rock tech sectorArkansas government technology initiatives
University of Central Arkansas — Conway, AR
Key Distinction: Thesis vs non-thesis track options. Graduate assistantships available to full-admission students with support typically limited to two years
Hakia Insight: UCA's thesis/non-thesis flexibility paired with industry partnerships at Acxiom and Windstream means working professionals can either pursue research credentials or finish faster with applied projects—a practical choice most regional programs don't explicitly offer.
The Master of Science in Computer Science at UCA is designed for working professionals seeking advanced preparation in computer science concepts and techniques. The program offers flexibility through two distinct tracks: a thesis option (30 credit hours) emphasizing original research with a public defense, and a non-thesis option (33 credit hours) focused on coursework. Graduate assistantships are available to full-admission students, typically supporting up to two years of study. The program prepares graduates for immediate employment in computer science positions and doctoral study. Graduates develop leadership capabilities, conduct application-driven research, and design computational solutions across multiple domains. All graduates must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours at the 6000-level and maintain a 3.0 GPA. The program emphasizes professional development, ethical practice, and lifelong learning to advance careers in computing.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Computer Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Acxiom (corporate)
- Windstream (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Access to Little Rock technology sectorCentral Arkansas business corridor
