Top Community Colleges in Little Rock

Key Takeaways

• Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas and University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College are the top community colleges serving Little Rock.
• Average in-district tuition ranges from approximately $3,000 to $5,000 per year, making these schools among the most affordable higher education options in Arkansas.
• Both colleges offer strong transfer pathways to four-year universities and career-focused programs in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
• Small class sizes, workforce partnerships, and flexible online options make Little Rock community colleges ideal for working adults and traditional students alike.

Why Choose a Community College in Little Rock?

Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, is a growing hub for healthcare, government, manufacturing, and technology. Community colleges in the Little Rock metro area provide affordable, accessible education aligned with local workforce needs.

Whether you want to earn an associate degree, complete a technical certificate, or transfer to a four-year university, community colleges here offer:

• Low tuition and strong financial aid options
• Transfer agreements with University of Arkansas System schools
• Career-ready certification programs
• Flexible evening and online classes
• Support services such as tutoring and career counseling

Top Community Colleges Serving Little Rock

1. University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College (UA-PTC)

Location: North Little Rock and Little Rock, AR
Type: Public two-year college
Affiliation: University of Arkansas System

UA-PTC is widely recognized as the leading community college serving the Little Rock area. As part of the University of Arkansas System, it provides seamless transfer pathways and strong academic oversight.

Academic Programs

UA-PTC offers over 80 certificate and associate degree programs, including:

• Registered Nursing and Allied Health
• Cybersecurity and Information Technology
• Business Administration
• Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management
• Advanced Manufacturing and Skilled Trades

Standout Features

• Highly regarded culinary arts institute
• Modern STEM and health sciences labs
• Strong job placement partnerships in central Arkansas
• Guaranteed transfer pathways to four-year Arkansas universities

UA-PTC is especially attractive to students planning to transfer to institutions such as the University of Arkansas at Little Rock or pursue healthcare careers in the city’s expanding hospital systems.

2. Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA)

Location: Campuses in Helena-West Helena, DeWitt, and Stuttgart
Service Area: Extended Little Rock region
Type: Public two-year college

Although not located directly in downtown Little Rock, PCCUA serves many students in the broader central and eastern Arkansas region, offering both in-person and online programs accessible to Little Rock residents.

Academic Programs

• Associate of Arts for university transfer
• Automotive Technology
• Industrial Technology
• Business and Accounting
• Criminal Justice

Standout Features

• Affordable tuition among the lowest in Arkansas
• Flexible online and hybrid courses
• Focused workforce training programs
• Supportive learning environment with small class sizes

PCCUA is an excellent option for students seeking cost-effective education and flexible scheduling while maintaining pathways to bachelor’s degree completion.

Comparing the Top Community Colleges in Little Rock

College Approx. In-District Tuition Notable Programs Transfer Opportunities Class Size UA-PTC $4,000–$5,000/year Nursing, Culinary Arts, IT Strong UA System pathways Small to moderate PCCUA $3,000–$4,000/year Industrial Tech, Business UA System transfer options Small

Tuition figures are estimates and may vary depending on residency and program selection. Both institutions offer federal financial aid, scholarships, and workforce grants.

Most Popular Programs in Little Rock Community Colleges

Healthcare and Nursing

With major employers such as Baptist Health and UAMS in the region, nursing and allied health programs are consistently in high demand. Graduates often benefit from strong local hiring pipelines.

Information Technology

Cybersecurity, networking, and computer support programs align with the city's expanding tech needs, particularly in government and corporate sectors.

Skilled Trades and Manufacturing

HVAC, welding, industrial maintenance, and automotive technology programs prepare students for well-paying roles without requiring a four-year degree.

Transfer Degrees

Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees are designed for smooth transition into bachelor’s programs. Articulation agreements help students transfer credits efficiently.

Cost of Attending a Community College in Little Rock

Community colleges in the area are significantly more affordable than four-year universities. Students typically save 50 percent or more per year in tuition alone.

Additional cost considerations include:

• Books and supplies
• Transportation and commuting
• Technology fees
• Certification exam costs in career programs

Many Arkansas residents qualify for state-funded scholarships and workforce training grants, further reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

Transfer and Career Outcomes

One of the primary advantages of attending a community college in Little Rock is flexibility. Students can:

• Transfer to University of Arkansas at Little Rock
• Continue within the broader UA System
• Enter the workforce after completing a certificate or associate degree

Career-focused programs often include internships, clinical placements, or hands-on labs designed to meet employer standards. This practical training increases employability immediately after graduation.

Student Support and Campus Life

While community colleges are commuter-focused, students still benefit from:

• Academic advising and tutoring centers
• Career services and resume workshops
• Student organizations and leadership development
• Online learning options for working professionals

UA-PTC in particular offers modern campus facilities in North Little Rock, creating an engaging academic environment while maintaining accessibility for students across the metro area.

How to Choose the Right Community College in Little Rock

1. Identify Your Career or Transfer Goal

Choose a college with strong programs aligned to your intended career field or transfer university.

2. Compare Costs and Financial Aid

Review tuition, scholarship eligibility, and grant opportunities to calculate your real cost of attendance.

3. Evaluate Flexibility

If you work full time, prioritize colleges offering evening, weekend, or online classes.

4. Visit Campus or Attend Virtual Tours

Seeing facilities, meeting faculty, and speaking with advisors can help you gauge whether a college is the right fit.

5. Review Graduation and Transfer Rates

Stronger student outcome data can signal better academic support and program quality.

Frequently Asked Questions about Community Colleges in Little Rock

What are the main community colleges that serve Little Rock?

The two main community colleges serving the Little Rock area are University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College (UA-PTC) and Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas (PCCUA). UA-PTC is in North Little Rock and Little Rock, while PCCUA serves the broader central and eastern Arkansas region.

How much does it cost to attend a community college in Little Rock?

In-district tuition at community colleges serving Little Rock usually ranges from about $3,000 to $5,000 per year. Your exact cost depends on your residency, program, and fees for items like technology or lab courses.

Can you transfer from a Little Rock community college to a four-year university?

Yes. Both UA-PTC and PCCUA have transfer pathways, especially within the University of Arkansas System. If you earn an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science, you can often transfer many or all of your credits to schools like the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

What are the most popular programs at Little Rock community colleges?

Popular programs include nursing and allied health, information technology and cybersecurity, skilled trades and advanced manufacturing, business, and transfer degrees designed for bachelor’s completion.

Are there flexible or online class options for working adults?

Yes. Community colleges serving Little Rock offer evening, online, and hybrid classes. These options help you fit college around a job, family duties, or other responsibilities while still moving toward a degree or certificate.