Arkansas Tech University - Overview

Arkansas State University enjoys a reputation as a quality regional institution of higher education and is recognized for offering special services to the people of the Arkansas Delta. It is the only comprehensive public university located in this region. Dedicated to teaching, research and service, the university provides students with the broad educational foundations that help develop critical thinking and analytical skills, decision-making capabilities, and communication skills. Dr. Les Wyatt is president of the Arkansas State University System, and Dr. Robert L. Potts became chancellor of the ASU-Jonesboro campus on Nov. 15, 2006.

This institution was founded in Jonesboro in 1909 by the Arkansas Legislature as a regional agricultural training school. It began offering a two-year college program in 1918, then became "First District Agricultural and Mechanical College" in 1925. A four-year degree program was begun in 1930, and then A & M College became "Arkansas State College" in 1933. The Arkansas Legislature elevated the college to university status and changed the name to Arkansas State University in 1967. Today, the institution has more than 59,000 alumni.

Arkansas State University's commitment to excellence in higher education is demonstrated by its accreditation by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, as well as 18 specialized accrediting organizations. In addition, the university holds membership in several national organizations which support the highest educational standards.

ASU has grown significantly over the past 20 years; the Jonesboro campus enrolment in the fall of 1981 was 7,448; five years later it was 8,526, and by 1991 it had grown to 9,717. Five years ago the fall enrolment at Jonesboro stood at 10,309. Today, because of the close partnerships between the campuses, ASU reports a combined enrolment for its system of campuses. Total system enrolment in the fall of 2006 was 17,401.

ASU offers bachelor's degree programs, master's degree programs and upper level courses through ASU degree centres at ASU-Beebe, ASU-Mountain Home, and three other cities - Blytheville, Forrest City and West Memphis - where partnership agreements have been established in cooperation with the local community colleges. ASU also operates instructional sites at nearby Paragould, in Greene County, and at Little Rock Air Force Base.