Ouachita Baptist University
Top 3, Best Private College
At Ouachita Baptist University, they love big numbers.
This fall, the university welcomed 486 first-time freshmen to campus — its largest class on record. Of those freshmen, 38 percent earned a 4.0 or higher high school grade point average, 25 percent are the first in their families to pursue higher education and 26 are Arkansas Governor’s Distinguished Scholars. Students of color compose 20 percent of the class, making it the most diverse cohort in school history.
Ouachita is excited about its freshman-to-sophomore retention rate (84 percent) and four-year graduation rate (63.5 percent — nearly double the state average of 32 percent). During the past five years, total university enrollment in Arkansas decreased 12 percent, while Ouachita’s enrollment increased 9 percent. In fact, total enrollment this semester — 1,764 — is its highest in 55 years.
The university is keeping the momentum going, too, expanding existing programs and launching new ones. Plans for next fall include a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice, a Master of Education degree in curriculum and instruction and a fully residential Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, which has received prerequisite approval and is pending initial approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.
But the number Ouachita loves most is one.
They care about big percentage points and record-breaking stats because each represents one Ouachita student who has a name, a story and a purpose. A student with distinct interests and goals, who trusts the school to offer outstanding academic training and career preparation, a vibrant campus community and opportunities for spiritual growth.
Come see for yourself how Ouachita can invest in you or a student you know. They look forward to meeting you!
(870) 245-5000 • obu.edu
