Best Colleges in Little Rock

Questions About Going to College in Little Rock

How are the career opportunities for college graduates in this city?

A diverse economy makes Little Rock attractive to many grads. Major sectors include healthcare, banking and finance, manufacturing, and aerospace (Little Rock Air Force Base alone employs about 4,500 workers). Several large corporations, including Dillard’s Department Stores and Windstream Communications, have their headquarters in Little Rock. And around 70,000 people are employed by the state, federal, or local government. Little Rock is, after all, the state’s largest city and the capital of Arkansas.

What major companies/industries are hiring what type of graduates/skills in Little Rock?

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and its affiliates employ over 10,000 people for positions in patient care, lab services, health education, administration, research, IT, and more. Other healthcare opportunities can be found through Baptist Health, Central Arkansas Veterans HealthCare System, St. Vincent Health System, and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Teachers and other educational professionals have many options too. They get hired by the Little Rock School District, the North Little Rock School District, and the Pulaski County Special School District. And check out the data technology firm Acxiom, which is headquartered in Little Rock. It seeks talent in areas such as marketing, management, computer sciences, and sales.

Is Little Rock more of a college town or a great place to start a career and family?

Home to institutions such as University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Clinton School of Public Service, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Philander Smith College, the city can be considered an educational hub. Affordable housing, employment opportunities, and a lively cultural scene encourage many grads to stay. Little Rock itself has about 197,000 residents, but more than a million people live within a 60-mile radius of downtown. Young families often choose to live on the outskirts in places like Mabelvale (known for its great schools) and commute in to work.

What do the locals in Little Rock like to do for fun?

Hikers, cyclists, and joggers find plenty to explore along the Arkansas River Trail, which winds through the entire metro area. The River Market District in the heart of downtown offers restaurants, bars, and an outdoor performance venue (don’t miss the July 4 POPS! concert). Summer brings residents to Dickey-Stephens Park to enjoy minor league baseball (Go Travelers!) and a beautiful view of the Little Rock Skyline. In October, families flock to the State Fair.

What's the dating scene like in Little Rock? Will I meet my perfect mate?

Singles can look forward to relatively equal gender distribution and good racial diversity. Grab a blanket and head to the River Market District for its free summer movies along the banks of the Arkansas River. Share a laugh with someone new while watching stand-up comedy at The Joint in North Little Rock. Try out one of the area’s speed dating events geared specifically toward professionals. You never know what great thing will happen when you put yourself out there.