Ozarka College has signed an agreement with the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith that will enable students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, beginning fall semester 2014.  Students will complete the first two years of the bachelor degree requirements at Ozarka College by completing the Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice.  

Once students have completed their coursework and are accepted into the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS), these students and their completed coursework will seamlessly transfer between the institutions.   Students may take any remaining courses to complete their Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree online.   Students who satisfactorily complete all required courses offered by UAFS and Ozarka College and who meet all other program requirements for graduation, will earn the appropriate degree from UAFS.

"The criminal justice program has been one of the fastest growing programs of study over the past four years at Ozarka College," said Dr. Dennis C. Rittle, Provost & Executive Vice President of Learning at Ozarka College. "This partnership with UA at Fort Smith will enable our graduates, many of whom are working professionals, to continue their education and career aspirations without having to relocate their families and to find new employment. In short, students win!"

Students enrolled in courses offered by UAFS will pay all fees set forth by the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees. Financial assistance such as Pell, Arkansas Challenge, and FAFSA are accepted by UAFS for this program. Additionally, qualifying transfer students have the opportunity to compete for select transfer scholarships.