Key Takeaways
- The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) offers the most established and career-focused surveying program in Morrilton, Arkansas.
- Students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Surveying Technology or technical certificates aligned with Arkansas licensure pathways.
- Graduates qualify for entry-level surveying roles and gain foundational experience toward becoming a licensed Professional Surveyor (PS) in Arkansas.
- Programs within commuting distance, including those in Central Arkansas, provide transfer and online coursework options.
- Surveying careers in Arkansas offer strong job stability, with median annual pay for surveyors nationally exceeding $65,000.
Why Study Surveying in Morrilton, Arkansas?
Morrilton sits in the Arkansas River Valley, a region where land development, infrastructure upgrades, rural property disputes, and public works projects consistently drive demand for professional surveyors. From boundary surveys to construction layout and GIS mapping, trained technicians are essential across Conway County and surrounding areas.
Choosing a surveying program in Morrilton offers three strategic advantages:
- Local industry access: Students can secure internships and entry-level roles with regional engineering and surveying firms.
- Lower tuition costs: Community college tuition in Arkansas is significantly more affordable than four-year institutions.
- Licensure pathway alignment: Arkansas requires education and field experience to become licensed. Local programs are structured to meet those requirements.
Top Surveying Program in Morrilton
University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM)
UACCM is the primary institution offering formal surveying education in Morrilton. It has built a specialized curriculum focused on land surveying technology and workforce readiness.
Degrees and Certificates Offered
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Surveying Technology
- Technical Certificate in Surveying
- Certificate of Proficiency options related to drafting and technical skills
The AAS degree typically requires two years of full-time study. Certificate programs can often be completed in one year or less.
Core Curriculum
Students gain hands-on technical skills combined with classroom instruction in:
- Boundary law and legal principles
- Survey computations and trigonometry
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)
- Construction layout and site development
- Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD)
Courses emphasize real-world lab work using industry-standard equipment such as total stations, GPS receivers, and surveying software.
Admission Requirements
Admission typically requires:
- High school diploma or GED
- Placement testing or qualifying ACT scores
- Completion of basic math prerequisites
Strong algebra and geometry skills are highly recommended.
Program Strengths
- Industry-aligned coursework
- Small class sizes
- Hands-on field experience
- Direct preparation for entry-level surveying roles
Comparable Surveying Programs Near Morrilton
While UACCM is the only institution located directly in Morrilton offering surveying training, students may consider nearby options within commuting distance.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock)
Offers construction management and engineering-related programs that complement surveying careers. More theory-based and suited for students pursuing a four-year degree.
Arkansas State University (ASU)
Provides engineering and GIS-related coursework. Ideal for students intending to pursue advanced licensure or specialization in geospatial sciences.
Online Surveying and GIS Programs
Some accredited colleges offer online surveying technology courses. However, most programs require in-person labs due to equipment requirements.
Side-by-Side Program Comparison
SchoolLocationCredentialLengthPrimary FocusUACCMMorrilton, ARAAS, Certificates1–2 YearsLand Surveying TechnologyUA Little RockLittle Rock, ARBachelor’s Degree4 YearsEngineering/ConstructionArkansas State UniversityJonesboro, ARBachelor’s Degree4 YearsEngineering/GIS
Career Outlook for Surveying Graduates in Arkansas
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Median annual wage for surveyors exceeds $65,000 nationwide.
- Demand remains steady due to ongoing infrastructure and land development projects.
- Surveying technicians earn competitive entry-level wages with clear advancement paths.
Common career paths include:
- Land Surveying Technician
- Survey Crew Chief
- GIS Technician
- Construction Layout Specialist
- Professional Surveyor (with licensure)
Arkansas requires education plus field experience before candidates can sit for licensure exams. Graduating from an accredited program like UACCM provides the necessary educational foundation.
Cost and Financial Aid
Community colleges in Arkansas typically offer lower tuition than public universities. While tuition varies by residency status, students can expect significantly reduced total program costs compared to four-year institutions.
Financial aid options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Arkansas state scholarships
- Workforce training grants
- Veterans education benefits
Students should contact each institution’s financial aid office for updated tuition rates and scholarship eligibility.
Online vs On-Campus Surveying Programs
On-Campus Advantages
- Access to surveying equipment
- Structured lab sessions
- Closer interaction with instructors
- Field-based learning
Online Learning Considerations
- Flexibility for working adults
- Limited availability for fully remote surveying degrees
- May require hybrid lab attendance
Because surveying is equipment-intensive, fully online programs are rare. Hybrid formats are more common.
How to Choose the Right Surveying Program
Before enrolling, evaluate these five key factors:
1. Accreditation
Ensure the college is regionally accredited and that the program aligns with Arkansas licensure standards.
2. Hands-On Training
Programs should include fieldwork and equipment practice.
3. Job Placement Support
Look for internship partnerships or career placement services.
4. Licensure Preparation
Confirm coursework supports eventual Professional Surveyor licensure requirements.
5. Total Cost
Compare tuition, fees, books, and equipment expenses.
Who Should Enroll in a Surveying Program?
Surveying programs are ideal for:
- Students who enjoy math and problem solving
- Individuals who prefer outdoor, field-based work
- Career changers seeking technical skills with strong demand
- Construction or engineering professionals seeking advancement
Surveying blends technology, law, mathematics, and fieldwork, making it both intellectually engaging and practically rewarding.
Final Considerations for Prospective Students
Morrilton offers a focused and practical surveying education pathway through UACCM, with additional regional options for students seeking advanced engineering degrees. With stable demand, strong earning potential, and clear advancement opportunities, surveying remains one of the most reliable technical careers in Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Surveying Programs in Morrilton, Arkansas
What surveying programs can you study at UACCM in Morrilton?
At the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM), you can study an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Surveying Technology, a Technical Certificate in Surveying, and related Certificates of Proficiency in drafting and technical skills.
How long does it take to complete a surveying program at UACCM?
If you attend full time, the AAS in Surveying Technology usually takes about two years to finish, while technical certificates and certificates of proficiency can often be completed in one year or less.
What admission requirements do you need for the surveying program?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED, placement test scores or ACT scores, and basic math readiness. Strong skills in algebra and geometry help you succeed in the coursework.
Can a surveying program in Morrilton help you become a licensed Professional Surveyor in Arkansas?
Yes. The UACCM surveying curriculum is designed to give you the education foundation required in Arkansas. After you graduate, you still need supervised field experience and to pass the state licensure exams to become a Professional Surveyor (PS).
What jobs can you get after finishing a surveying program in Morrilton?
You can qualify for roles such as land surveying technician, survey crew member or crew chief, GIS technician, and construction layout technician. With experience and licensure, you can advance to Professional Surveyor positions.
How much can you earn as a surveyor after completing these programs?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surveyors is above $65,000 nationwide, while surveying technicians typically earn lower but competitive entry-level pay with clear options to move up.
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