Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Certificate of Proficiency in Accounting gives students foundational accounting knowledge, while the Technical Certificate builds entry-level bookkeeping skills. Students who complete these programs gain a working understanding of the basic accounting cycle and learn how to maintain financial records using computer-based systems.

The Certificate of Proficiency and Technical Certificate in Business Management prepare students with entry-level management skills. The Certificate of Proficiency provides a basic understanding of general management principles, while the Technical Certificate expands this knowledge to include applied management concepts and practices, preparing graduates for immediate employment.

Certificates in Digital Media and Marketing introduce students to foundational marketing principles across various digital communication platforms.

The Associate of Applied Science in General Business is designed for students seeking occupational, technical, and vocational skills that support employment opportunities or career advancement.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This program allows students to earn Certificates of Proficiency and Technical Certificates in Accounting, Business Management, and Digital Media Marketing, all of which are incorporated within the Associate of Applied Science in General Business degree. The degree includes three concentration areas designed to enhance students’ employability and career readiness. Some courses require minimum placement scores and/or prerequisite coursework prior to enrollment.

TRANSFER OPTIONS: Associate of Applied Science degrees are NOT designed for transfer. 

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Associate of Science in Business degree is designed for transfer, so completion of the program alone does not lead to a specific career path. However, earning an associate degree enhances overall employability and qualifies students for positions that require an associate-level credential. This degree is well-suited for students planning to pursue bachelor’s degrees and careers in business-related fields such as Accounting, Business Administration, Management, and Marketing.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This degree prepares students for transfer to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree in a business discipline identified through Arkansas transfer agreements with participating universities.

TRANSFER OPTIONS:

• Arkansas State University Jonesboro to complete Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Business Economics, Bachelor of Science in International Business, Bachelor of Science in Finance, Bachelor of Science in Management, or Bachelor of Science in Marketing.
• Arkansas Tech University to complete Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BUSI 10103 Directed Elective) or Bachelor of Professional Studies.
• Henderson State University to complete Bachelor of Business Administration (BUSI 20103 Directed Elective)
• Southern Arkansas University at Magnolia to complete Bachelor of Business Administration in Advertising and Public Relations, Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business, Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems, Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, or Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
• Texas A&M University - Texarkana to complete Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. 
• University of Arkansas Little Rock to complete Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Business Information Systems, or Management. All can be completed online.
• University of Arkansas Monticello to complete Bachelor of Business Administration (BUSI 10103 Directed Elective) Degree Plan
• University of Arkansas Pine Bluff to complete Bachelor of Business Administration
• University of Central Arkansas to complete a Bachelor of Accounting, Business Administration, Economics - International Trade, Finance, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Insurance and Risk Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Managment, Management, Management Information Systems, or Marketing.
• University of Arkansas Fort Smith: to complete a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
• University of Arkansas Grantham to complete a Bachelor of Business Administration (any concentration).
• Franklin University to complete a Bachelor of Science.

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Associate of Science in Business degree is a transfer-focused program and, on its own, does not lead to a specific career pathway. However, completing an associate degree can enhance overall employability and qualify students for positions that require an associate-level credential. This program is ideal for students planning to pursue bachelor’s degrees and careers in business-related areas such as Accounting, Business Administration, Management, and Marketing.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This degree track is designed for students who intend to transfer to the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, to complete a bachelor’s degree in a business discipline.

Visit the University of Arkansas Sam W. Walton College of Business here. Click here to review transfer information regarding this program.

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Technical Certificate in Agriculture prepares students for entry-level positions in the agricultural industry, with an emphasis on developing the skills needed to own and operate a farm or ranch. The Associate of Science degree is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This program is structured so that students may earn the Technical Certificate after the second semester and the Associate of Science degree after the fourth semester. Some courses require minimum placement scores and/or prerequisite coursework prior to enrollment.

TRANSFER OPTIONS:

University of Arkansas Fayetteville

• Associate of Science in Agriculture Education to Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with Agricultural Education concentration.
• Associate of Science in Agriculture Business to Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agricultural Business with Management and Marketing concentration.

Arkansas State University Jonesboro to complete a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Degree concentrations include Agricultural Studies, Animal Science, Agricultural Business, or Plant & Soil Science.

Southern Arkansas University to complete a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business. Degree Plan

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: This degree is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in Forestry, Wildlife Management, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Conservation, or related fields within the natural sciences. It provides a strong foundation for entry into professional roles in conservation agencies, forest and land management organizations, wildlife preservation programs, and environmental consulting.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This program provides the first two years of general education and discipline-specific coursework intended for transfer to a four-year institution. Upon completion, students are prepared to continue their studies toward a bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Wildlife Management, or a closely related natural resources field.

TRANSFER OPTIONS:

• University of Arkansas Monticello to complete Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources or Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management.
• Arkansas Tech University to complete a Bachelor of Professional Studies.
• University of Arkansas Fort Smith to complete Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: This program prepares students for entry-level employment in the automotive and diesel technology industries while also supporting those interested in entrepreneurship and business ownership. The technical skills developed in this program are transferable to related fields such as aeronautics, military maintenance, heavy equipment, and engineering support services. Students are strongly encouraged to continue their education by completing the Associate of Applied Science degree in General Technology.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This program combines the study of Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology to provide students with a broad technical skill set and expanded career opportunities. Through hands-on training and industry-focused instruction, students develop the knowledge and practical experience needed to work with a wide range of automotive and diesel systems and equipment.

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Industrial Maintenance pathway prepares students for entry-level careers in industrial maintenance, manufacturing, and production environments. Graduates develop skills in mechanical systems, electrical systems, automation, motor controls, and welding, increasing employment opportunities across a variety of industries. The technical skills gained in Industrial Electricity may also support careers in industrial electrical maintenance or serve as part of a multi-crafttechnical background.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: This degree pathway was developed in collaboration with local industry partners to ensure students receive relevant, up-to-date training aligned with current workforce needs. Students will earn stackable credentials throughout the program, beginning with Certificates of Proficiency in Mechanical Devices, Hydraulics and Pneumatics, Industrial Motor Controls, Programmable Controls, and Welding. These certificates lead to Technical Certificates in Industrial Technology and Industrial Electricity, with all coursework applying toward the Associate of Applied Science degree in General Technology. 

Students gain hands-on experience and technical skills needed to perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and production-related duties in industrial settings. Upon successful completion of the Industrial Fundamentals course, which follows the NCCER curriculum, students may also earn a nationally recognized industry certification. 

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: This program prepares students for careers as licensed cosmetologists and related beauty industry professionals. Students develop the technical skills, professional behaviors, safety awareness, and customer service abilities needed for employment in salons, spas, and other personal care settings. Graduates may pursue opportunities in hairstyling, nail technology, skincare services, salon management, sales, or entrepreneurship within the cosmetology industry.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: The Cosmetology pathway is designed to provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical training required to qualify for licensure examination through the Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology. Students receive comprehensive instruction in cosmetology techniques, safety practices, sanitation, customer service, and salon management while gaining hands-on experience in a professional learning environment. 

Admission to the program requires a high school diploma or GED. Enrollment is limited to full-time students, and daily attendance is mandatory. Students must complete three consecutive semesters, including the summer term. Acceptance into the program is based on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible applicants. Special payment requirements and semester calendars apply. 

Students may transfer up to 600 clock hours from another cosmetology program into the UA Cossatot program. Students who require additional hours beyond the three-semester sequence may be considered for an additional semester on a case-by-case basis, pending seat availability. Additional clock hours are assessed at $10 per hour. 

Instruction includes training in hygiene and sanitation, related sciences, physiotherapy, hairdressing, manicuring, aesthetics, salesmanship and shop management, and professional salon practices. 

PROFESSIONAL LICENSE REQUIREMENT NOTIFICATION: UA Cossatot programs are designed to prepare students to apply for applicable licensure in Arkansas and may not meet educational requirements for licensure in other states. While UA Cossatot makes every effort to maintain current licensure information, state licensing requirements are subject to change and may vary by state.

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Nail Technician/Manicure and Esthetician programs prepare students for careers in the beauty, skincare, and wellness industries. Graduates develop the technical skills, professionalism, communication abilities, and customer service experience needed for employment in salons, spas, skincare clinics, and other personal care settings. Career opportunities may include licensed nail technician, manicurist, esthetician, skincare specialist, spa technician, salon or spa support staff, or entrepreneurship within the beauty and wellness industry.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: The Nail Technician/Manicure program is designed to provide students with the foundational technical skills, safety practices, professional work habits, and customer service skills necessary to qualify for licensure examination through the Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology. Students receive hands-on instruction in nail care, manicuring techniques, sanitation, and professional salon practices. 

The Esthetician program prepares students for careers in the skincare industry by developing the technical, communication, and professional skills needed to succeed in a competitive spa and wellness environment. Students receive instruction in skincare treatments, sanitation, client services, and business practices while building the knowledge necessary for employment or entrepreneurship in the beauty industry. 

Both programs require either a high school diploma or GED for admission and are designed to be completed in one semester (600 clock hours). Enrollment is limited to full-time students only, and daily attendance is mandatory. Eligible students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Students who do not complete the required hours within one semester may be considered for an additional semester on a case-by-case basis, pending seat availability. Additional clock hours are assessed at $10 per hour. 

At the completion of either program, students are eligible to take the licensure examination administered by the Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology. 

The Nail Technician and Esthetician programs are offered during the fall and spring semesters only. 

Degree Plan

CAREER OPTIONS: The Technical Certificate and Certificates of Proficiency in Welding Technology are designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in industrial and commercial welding fields. The Pipe Welding Certificate provides advanced training for careers in pipe welding, fabrication, construction, manufacturing, and related skilled trades. Graduates may qualify for higher-paying positions requiring specialized welding and fitting skills in industrial, commercial, and energy-sector environments.

PROGRAM INFORMATION: Students must complete the Technical Certificate in Welding Technology prior to entering the Pipe Welding Certificate program. Instruction is based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum and is designed to prepare students for both NCCER credentialing and American Welding certification opportunities. Additional industry experience may be required depending on the level of welding proficiency achieved during training. 

The program provides advanced instruction in multiple welding processes and emphasizes both classroom theory and hands-on laboratory experience. Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) courses introduce students to fundamental welding techniques, oxyfuel cutting, electrode classification, and weld testing using destructive and non-destructive methods. These courses align with the NCCER Welding Level One curriculum. 

The MIG (GMAW) course provides in-depth training in gas metal arc welding, including the operation of constant voltage power sources, wire feed systems, and equipment maintenance. Students gain practical experience performing welds on mild steel and stainless steel using a variety of transfer methods and flux-cored wire systems. 

In the TIG (GTAW) course, students use gas tungsten arc welding equipment to complete welds in multiple positions while developing advanced precision welding skills. Upon successful completion, students may be eligible to test for NCCER Welding Level Two certification. 

The program also includes instruction in fitting fundamentals, providing students with hands-on experience in measuring, cutting, assembling, and installing structural and piping components commonly used in industrial and construction environments. Students develop skills in safety practices, tool usage, and interpreting technical drawings to support a broad range of welding and fabrication applications.