High school students have more opportunities than ever to get ahead before graduation, and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana (UAHT) makes it easier and more affordable than ever to earn college credit while still in high school.

Through early college concurrent and dual credit programs, students can begin working toward their college and career goals early while saving significant time and money. Whether a student plans to earn a bachelor's degree, enter the workforce with technical training, or explore career options, UAHT provides pathways that can help them reach those goals faster.

Save Thousands on the Cost of College
One of the greatest benefits of taking concurrent and dual credit classes at UAHT is affordability. Many high school students can take classes at a greatly reduced tuition rate, and in many cases, classes are available at no cost to the student through partnerships with local school districts. This allows students to begin earning college credits without taking on the financial burden that often comes with higher education.

Starting college at UAHT while still in high school can result in substantial savings. According to the Arkansas Division of Higher Education's 2025-2026 Tuition and Mandatory Fee Summary, the average annual tuition and mandatory fees cost for a full-time resident undergraduate student at Arkansas public four-year universities is $10,197. By comparison, the annual tuition and mandatory fees cost for resident students at UAHT is $4,750.

That means students who complete college coursework at UAHT before transferring to a four-year university can save thousands of dollars in tuition and mandatory fees alone. Those savings become even greater when considering expenses such as room and board, meal plans, parking, and other costs typically associated with attending a university away from home. When these costs are factored in, students save an average of over $30,000 compared to the first two years at Arkansas public four-year universities.

By completing general education courses and other degree requirements at UAHT, students can make meaningful progress toward a bachelor's degree while keeping college costs much lower.

Earn More Than College Credit
For motivated students, UAHT offers the opportunity to do much more than earn a few college classes before high school graduation.

Many students can complete an associate degree or a technical certificate while still in high school. Earning one of these credentials also qualifies students to receive a high school Diploma with Distinction, an important achievement that opens the door to additional financial assistance after high school.

Students who earn a Diploma with Distinction qualify for the Arkansas Governor's Scholarship (Non-Distinguished). This scholarship provides $5,000 per year, added to the student's Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship award after graduating from high school, helping to make the pursuit of a bachelor's degree even more affordable.

Multiple Pathways to Success
UAHT offers several ways for high school students to participate in concurrent and dual credit opportunities, allowing students to choose the option that best fits their educational and career goals.

Students can earn college credit through:

• Traditional Concurrent Credit
• The Secondary Career & Technical Education Center
• The Hope Collegiate Academy
• The Arkansas High Collegiate Academy

These programs provide flexible opportunities for students interested in academic transfer degrees, workforce training, and career and technical education.

Invest in Your Future Today
Taking college classes while still in high school is one of the smartest investments students and families can make. Students gain valuable college experience, shorten the time it takes to earn a degree, strengthen college applications and resumes, and save thousands of dollars on higher education costs.

Whether the goal is transferring to a four-year university, entering a high-demand career, or graduating from college with less debt, UAHT's concurrent and dual credit programs provide an affordable pathway to success.

By starting early at UAHT, students can graduate from high school with college credits, an associate degree or technical certificate, scholarship opportunities, and a significant financial advantage as they continue their educational journey.

For more information or to enroll, visit your high school counselor or call UAHT at 870-777-5722. UAHT is your bridge to the future.