About
Henderson State University
Henderson State University is a 4-year public institution in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, committed to preparing students for careers in high-demand fields across the region. Founded in 1890 with a strong foundation in teacher education, Henderson continues to be recognized nationally in the field while expanding through its Colleges of Aviation, Science, and Nursing; Business; Performing Arts and Social Sciences; and Teachers College. As the only university in Arkansas offering a four-year aviation degree and accredited business programs, Henderson connects students with meaningful, career-focused pathways. A proud member of the Arkansas State University System, Henderson fosters a close-knit academic community shaped by its enduring motto: “The School with a Heart.”
Cost of Attendance
Tuition and additional fee costs vary depending on full time or part time enrollment status. Also, being an out of state student (non-resident) can result in additional fees. Henderson State also provides a fee sheet that assists students in determining the full cost of enrollment.
in-state tuition
In-state tuition per hour is $275 for undergraduates.
out-of-state tuition
Out-of-state tuition per hour is $377 for undergraduates.
Admission Requirements
2.0 cumulative, unweighted high school GPA
*ALL students are required to submit official standardized test scores for math course placement and students with an unweighted GPA below 2.5 will be required to submit all official standardized test scores for academic course placement purposes.
Financial Aid
Each year, more than 90 percent of Henderson undergraduates receive financial aid. This comes in the form of scholarships, grants, loans and work-study programs. Aid is awarded based on a number of factors, including financial need, academic merit and proficiency in athletics and the arts.
Completing the FAFSA will enable students to become eligible for federal aid. Federal aid can come in the form of Pell and other grants or a loan. Grant and loan information is available on the FAFSA website. Click the heading to learn more.
Distinguished Freshman Scholarship
This full-tuition scholarship is awarded to a select number of students.
Requirements:
26+ ACT (or SAT equivalent).
4.0 weighted or unweighted cumulative high school GPA.
Live on Campus.
The Henderson State University Foundation offers scholarships that may be applied for annually. These scholarships are made possible by contributions from private donors, alumni, faculty, staff, campus organizations and corporations. Click the heading to learn more.
Whether you’re a college-bound high school student or already attending a college or university, Army ROTC Army Reserve Officer Training Corps enables students to enroll in elective leadership and military courses at colleges and universities in addition to their required courses. Army ROTC has scholarships available. Scholarships are awarded based on a student’s merit and grades, not financial need. Click the heading to learn more.
Programs
HSU prepares its students for bright, productive futures where academics is combined with the proper tools for tackling today’s tough issues and making a difference in society.
Military Science (ROTC)
Henderson State University’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program provides college students with the opportunity to combine world-class leadership and management training with their other academic studies. Upon successful completion of the program and graduation from college, young men and women become Army Lieutenants in either the active Army or the Reserve components.
Teachers College
Whichever education program you choose to explore, you can expect personal attention from expert faculty, real-life learning experiences, and high-quality programs that are nationally accredited. You will gain real-word experience, while learning about child growth and development, creative teaching materials and technology, and content-related strategies. As an elementary teacher, you will be one of the first major influences in a young child’s life.
Aviation
Henderson’s Department of Aviation is Arkansas’s only public university program that offers a four-year Bachelor of Science degree specifically in aviation. We prepare students for the professional aviation workplace.
The Professional Pilot Track provides students with zero flight experience with the education and flight training required to become a professional pilot for an airline or corporation.
The Aviation Management Track is for students interested in working at the management level in the aviation industry without being a commercial pilot.
Henderson State University
Campus Life
Henderson State offers a multitude of student organizations for students to choose from.
Notable Organizations & Programs
Intramural Sports
The Dunn Recreation Center offers the opportunity to participate in competitive and recreational sports for everyone in the Henderson State University community. There are many different leagues, activities, and tournaments held during the year, and participation is usually free. Put together a team of your friends and classmates or sign up as an individual in various sports
Outdoor Rec
The Dunn Student Recreation Center hosts seminars and activities using our camping and outdoor sporting equipment. The activities are held around Arkansas and cover a range of topics for both the novice and experienced outdoorsmen and women
Fitness and Wellness Program
The Dunn Recreation Center offers a state-of-the-art weight room and fitness area. Our staff can show you how to use the equipment and provide lifting assistance when necessary. In addition, we offer nutrition and healthy living advice from personal training and fitness instructors. We hold group exercise sessions as well as provide personal training sessions for students, faculty, and staff who are interested.
Student Testimonials
Hear from HSU students on their experience.
The education, experiences and people that I connected with at at Henderson truly developed me into the man that I am today. My work ethic, time management skills, attention to details, character, grit and resilience are all qualities that being a student athlete at Henderson helped create.
Christopher King
My education, experiences, and time spent at Henderson truly helped shape the professional I am today.
Courtney Gee
The combination of sports and higher education helped mold my leadership skills, provided tools to complete tasks, and expanded my confidence and ability to prepare, motivate and navigate a variety of situations and people.