Part of the University of Arkansas’s land-grant mission is to provide life-changing opportunities that lead to building a better world. As a pillar of the university’s 150 Forward strategic plan, student success is at the forefront of that mission and U of A graduates are leaving better prepared for leadership and success, according to a new ranking.

TIME Magazine named the U of A as one of the Best Colleges for Future Leaders in the United States, ranking it in the Top 60 out of 100 schools, Top 30 of public institutions, and ahead of fellow SEC schools, Florida and Kentucky.

TIME and Statista analyzed the resumés of 2,000 top leaders in the U.S. — politicians, CEOs, union leaders, Nobel winners, and more across sectors — to assemble a list of the universities and colleges where they received their degrees. The list is also weighted for school size.

Many of the schools listed featured exceptional business programs, an area where the Sam M. Walton College of Business has consistently shined. For the last 22 years, the Walton College has been ranked in the Top 30 of public business schools, according to U.S. News and World Report. 

Along with record enrollment this year, the university also set a record for the number of degrees awarded, meaning more U of A graduates are entering the workforce than ever before. Of recently graduated student respondents (Fall 2022 through Spring 2023), 87% reported they are working full-time or have been accepted to a program to continue their education.

For more information about the U of A’s 150 Forward strategic plan, please visit the 150 Forward website.

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $2.2 billion to Arkansas’ economy through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.