U of A Ranked Among Top 40 Public Universities for Future Leaders by TIME

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – For the third consecutive year, the University of Arkansas has secured a spot on TIME Magazine's Best Colleges for Future Leaders list, ranking among the top 40 public universities. This recognition reflects the university's longstanding commitment to providing students with the knowledge, skills and experiences that help them achieve their goals and make meaningful contributions in the communities where they live and work.  

As a public land-grant institution, the University of Arkansas is rooted in a mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education that drives economic and social progress for the state. That mission continues today through innovative academic programs, hands-on learning opportunities and an emphasis on research and entrepreneurial thinking that helps students become effective leaders in all aspects of their life, from community engagement to professional endeavors. With over 7,800 degrees and certificates awarded in the 2025 academic year, the U of A is equipping a new workforce to return to their communities to lead, give back and create lasting change for generations to come.

To determine this year's rankings, TIME and Statista analyzed a diverse group of 4,800 influential figures shaping American society today — including policymakers, corporate executives, scientists, educators and cultural innovators. The dataset is updated annually to capture emerging fields and include younger leaders making an impact across industries.

Out of 125 public and private universities evaluated for this year's list, the U of A was ranked 72nd and is one of only 10 SEC schools included in the top 75 — ahead of Auburn, Kentucky and Tennessee.

Other ongoing initiatives that further demonstrate the U of A's land-grant commitment to leadership and access include the Land of Opportunity Scholarship, a $200 million scholarship campaign to expand access for students from all 75 Arkansas counties by providing mentorship, networking and career development support. Additionally, the Arkansas Transfer Achievement Scholarship allows graduates from a two-year college in the UA System to transfer to the U of A at the same two-year tuition rate, delivering more than $4.3 million in tuition savings.

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 $3 billion annually 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. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.