Ozarka College Launches New Associate of General Studies Degree Focused on Career Flexibility and Workforce Readiness

Published on May 21, 2026

Ozarka College is proud to announce the launch of its new Associate of General Studies (AGS) degree program, designed to give students the flexibility to customize their education around career goals, workforce training, and entrepreneurship.

The new AGS degree combines 15 credit hours of general education coursework with 45 credit hours from career and technical programs, allowing students to build unique educational pathways that match their interests and future career plans.

"This degree creates exciting opportunities for students who want practical skills while also gaining broader knowledge in communication, math, leadership, and business," said Josh Wilson, President . "The AGS program allows students to design a degree that truly fits their personal and professional goals."

Students can combine programs in ways that prepare them for both employment and entrepreneurship. For example, a student may combine welding courses with business classes to become a skilled welder prepared to own and operate a welding business. Other combinations may include agriculture and accounting, HVAC and entrepreneurship, or information technology and business management.

The AGS degree is ideal for:
• Recent high school graduates
• Adult learners
• Workforce trainees
• Career and technical students
• Future business owners and entrepreneurs

In addition, eligible students enrolled in the Associate of General Studies program may qualify for the Ozarka Opportunity Scholarship, helping make a college education even more affordable. The scholarship supports students pursuing higher education at Ozarka College and reinforces the institution's commitment to expanding access to workforce-focused educational opportunities across North Central Arkansas.

Ozarka College believes the new degree will help meet workforce demands across North Central Arkansas while providing students with flexible and affordable educational opportunities.

The college plans to promote the program through community outreach, workforce partnerships, high school recruitment efforts, and digital marketing campaigns highlighting customizable career pathways.

For more information about the Associate of General Studies degree or the Ozarka Opportunity Scholarship, visit www.ozarka.edu or contact Ozarka College Admissions at 870-368-2300.