Best Computer Science Degrees in Little Rock
Choosing the right computer science degree can define your career trajectory for decades. Little Rock, Arkansas offers a focused but competitive set of options for students seeking high-demand careers in software development, cybersecurity, data science, and IT leadership. This guide provides a clear, side-by-side breakdown of the best computer science degrees in Little Rock, including curriculum depth, tuition value, career outcomes, and local industry connections.
Key Takeaways
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) offers the most comprehensive and research-driven computer science programs in the region.
- Students benefit from strong employer pipelines with Arkansas-based companies like Dillard’s, Windstream, Acxiom, and Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield.
- Tuition at Little Rock institutions remains significantly more affordable than national averages, improving long-term ROI.
- High-demand concentrations include cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.
- Internships and applied learning play a major role in job placement for CS graduates in central Arkansas.
Top Computer Science Programs in Little Rock
1. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock)
Best Overall Computer Science Degree in Little Rock
UA Little Rock is widely recognized as the leading institution for computer science education in Little Rock. The School of Computer Science and Mathematics offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral pathways designed to align with modern industry demands.
Degrees Offered
- B.S. in Computer Science
- M.S. in Computer Science
- Ph.D. in Computer Science
- Graduate Certificates in Cybersecurity and Data Science
Curriculum Highlights
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
- Cloud Computing
- Software Engineering Capstone
The program emphasizes hands-on learning through labs and project-based coursework. Seniors complete a capstone project often sponsored by local industry partners.
Research and Faculty Strength
UA Little Rock is classified as a research university and hosts funded research initiatives in cybersecurity, data analytics, and simulation technologies. Faculty members are active researchers, many holding federal research grants. Students can participate in undergraduate research, which strengthens graduate school and job applications.
Tuition and ROI
In-state tuition is typically well below the national average for public universities. When combined with Arkansas scholarships and federal aid, many students graduate with competitive debt-to-income ratios compared to peer institutions nationwide.
Career Outcomes
Graduates commonly secure roles such as:
- Software Developer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Systems Engineer
- Data Analyst
- Cloud Solutions Architect
Major local employers hiring UA Little Rock graduates include Dillard’s corporate IT, Acxiom, Windstream, Arkansas Children’s Hospital IT division, and state government agencies.
2. Arkansas Baptist College
Best for Small Class Sizes and Personalized Support
Arkansas Baptist College offers technology-related programs with a strong emphasis on mentorship and smaller class sizes. While not as research-intensive as UA Little Rock, it provides supportive academic environments for students seeking foundational knowledge in computing and business technology integration.
Program Focus
- Foundations of Programming
- Information Systems
- Business Applications of Technology
This pathway may appeal to students interested in IT management, support services, or entry-level technical roles rather than advanced software engineering or research careers.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Computer Science Degrees in Little Rock
FeatureUA Little RockArkansas Baptist CollegeDegree LevelsBachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.Bachelor’sSpecializationsAI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software EngineeringInformation Systems FocusResearch OpportunitiesYes, funded research labsLimitedInternship AccessStrong local employer pipelineDeveloping partnershipsClass SizeMediumSmallROI PotentialHigh due to low tuition and strong salariesModerate
What Makes a Computer Science Degree in Little Rock Valuable?
1. Strong Local Tech Ecosystem
Little Rock’s growing tech footprint supports steady demand for CS graduates. Industries fueling hiring demand include retail analytics, telecommunications, healthcare systems, financial services, and government IT modernization.
2. Affordable Education
Compared to national private university tuition rates, Little Rock institutions offer substantially lower costs. This significantly improves return on investment, especially for in-state students.
3. Cybersecurity Demand
With increasing reliance on digital infrastructure, Arkansas has expanded investment in cybersecurity talent. UA Little Rock’s cybersecurity focus aligns with government and healthcare sector needs.
4. Internship Integration
Internships are a critical factor in job placement. Many CS students secure internships during junior year, often converting to full-time positions post-graduation.
Admissions Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- High school diploma or GED
- Competitive GPA
- ACT or SAT scores if required
- Completed math coursework through Algebra II or higher
Graduate Admission (UA Little Rock)
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
- Minimum GPA requirement
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
Students without a CS background may need prerequisite coursework in programming, data structures, and discrete mathematics.
Career Salary Expectations for CS Graduates
Computer science remains one of the highest-paying bachelor’s degrees in Arkansas.
- Entry-Level Software Developer: $65,000 to $85,000 annually
- Cybersecurity Analyst: $70,000 to $95,000 annually
- Mid-Career Software Engineer: $100,000 or more
Remote work opportunities further expand earning potential beyond regional averages.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Students in Little Rock can leverage multiple funding sources:
- Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship
- Institutional merit scholarships
- Federal Pell Grants
- Work-study programs
- Department-specific STEM scholarships
CS students may also qualify for federal cybersecurity scholarships that require post-graduation government service.
How to Choose the Best Computer Science Degree in Little Rock
Ask These Questions Before Applying
- Does the program offer internships with local tech employers?
- Are faculty active in research or industry?
- What is the job placement rate for graduates?
- Are there capstone or real-world projects?
- How does tuition compare to expected starting salary?
Best Fit Recommendations
- Aspiring Software Engineer or Researcher: UA Little Rock
- IT Support or Business Technology Focus: Arkansas Baptist College
- Future Graduate Student or Ph.D. Candidate: UA Little Rock
Why UA Little Rock Dominates Computer Science in Little Rock
While multiple institutions provide computing education, UA Little Rock stands out for its breadth of degrees, research activity, employer connections, and long-term career outcomes. Its integration of cybersecurity, AI, and data science into the curriculum reflects current industry demands. Combined with affordable tuition and strong regional hiring pipelines, it remains the most comprehensive computer science option in the Little Rock area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Computer Science Degrees in Little Rock
What are the main computer science degree options in Little Rock?
You can earn a full computer science pathway at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, which offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees, as well as graduate certificates in areas like cybersecurity and data science. Arkansas Baptist College offers smaller, more personalized programs focused on information systems and business technology.
How much does a computer science degree cost in Little Rock, and is it worth it?
In-state tuition at Little Rock schools is usually lower than the national average for public universities. When you combine this with state aid and scholarships, many students finish with a manageable level of debt compared to starting salaries in software development, cybersecurity, and related fields, which often range from $65,000 to $95,000 a year for early-career roles.
What computer science specializations can you study in Little Rock?
At UA Little Rock, you can focus on areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering. Arkansas Baptist College leans toward information systems and the use of technology in business, which can prepare you for IT support and technology management roles.
What admissions requirements should you expect for CS programs in Little Rock?
For undergraduate programs, you usually need a high school diploma or GED, a solid GPA, math through at least Algebra II, and ACT or SAT scores if required. For graduate study at UA Little Rock, you typically need a related bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. You may also need prerequisite courses in programming, data structures, and discrete math if your background is not in computer science.
What kinds of jobs can you get with a computer science degree from Little Rock?
You can qualify for roles such as software developer, cybersecurity analyst, systems engineer, data analyst, and cloud solutions architect. Many students find internships and full-time jobs with companies in central Arkansas, including retailers, telecom firms, healthcare systems, and government agencies, and some graduates also work remotely for employers outside the state.
What financial aid and scholarships are available for CS students in Little Rock?
You may be able to use the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, institutional merit awards, federal Pell Grants, work-study, and STEM or department-level scholarships. Some students in security-focused tracks may also qualify for federal cybersecurity scholarships that cover tuition in exchange for working in government roles after graduation.
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