Education
As home to two four-year universities, Henderson State University and Ouachita Baptist University, and known as the “Athens of Arkansas”, Arkadelphia offers outstanding educational opportunities.
Henderson State University is Arkansas’ only public liberal arts institution. Henderson offers the state’s only four-year bachelor’s degree in aviation. Known as the “School with a Heart”, Henderson State University is well-defined by its student-centered focus.
Ouachita Baptist University is a nationally-ranked and private liberal arts institution. Ouachita focuses on teaching the academic spiritual, and personal differences to its students. Known for “fostering love of God and a love of education”, Ouachita Baptist University is ranked among the nation’s top colleges.
Arkadelphia has played host to the most unique football rivalry in the country, the Battle of the Ravine for over 100 years. Tapped as “The Biggest Little Football Game in America”, two major college football teams literally walk across the street to the opponent’s stadium for a road game. This unique event does not happen anywhere else in America. Since the rivalry began in 1895, there is only the slightest margin of difference in the series standings. The series is closer than the distance between the two campuses. In addition to the football game, Henderson State University and Ouachita Baptist University “battle” in various sports.
Henderson State University
Since Henderson State University’s inception in 1890, the university has been proud to be part of the Arkadelphia community. From music concerts and business seminars to college preparatory programs and summer camps, Henderson has a long history of providing high-quality educational opportunities and services to the public. Henderson State University operates many facilities used by the public on a regular basis for entertainment, enrichment and practical purposes. Henderson, which offers the only university-level aviation program in Arkansas, handles Arkadelphia Municipal Airport’s fixed base operation under a contract with the city.
Ouachita Baptist University
Ouachita Baptist University, founded in Arkadelphia in 1886, has served more than 125 years as a Christ-centered learning community. As a leading liberal arts university, Ouachita’s focus on academic excellence is reflected through majors in seven academic schools in the disciplines of business, Christian studies, education, fine arts, humanities, natural sciences and social sciences. Ouachita also has implemented a new Loan Affordability Pledge to help make college costs more affordable.
Arkadelphia Public School District
The mission of Arkadelphia Public School District is to create a quality learning organization where student achievement results in excellence within the local and global community.
Gurdon Public School District
Gurdon Public Schools, a sizable rural district made up of Gurdon Primary School, Cabe Middle School, and Gurdon High Schools, serves southern Clark County in southwest Arkansas. The adoption of best practices, professional development, and ongoing education are all part of the teachers' and administrators' commitment to continuous improvement.