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UCA Ranks Second in Retention, Graduation Rates



Still not great overall, but hopefully they will improve.

Not sure how to really assess the data. Compared to most others we look really good. However, this is a function of readiness of incoming students, not necessarily how good the school is at education. My guess is that Harvard would have an astronomical rate but their undergrad education capability may not be appreciable better.....I went to "bigger" name schools beyond UCA and I can appreciate that Ralph Behrens, Ray Kinser, Bob Kirkwood, Denver Prince, Mike Rapp, Owen Moseley, et al were every bit as effective professors as the best at the name schools and I got a lot more personal attention at UCA. This data ois somewhat like comparing the graduation rate of AP students in high school vs non-AP students.

One of the debates going on in our fair state is basically one of should we (ie, taxpayers) fund state 4-year schools to give the marginally preprared incoming students a chance at a 4-year school or should we just shunt them into trade schools and community colleges. The latter is very "cost effective" (at least in the short run) but UCA has uncovered many academic gems over the decades who have gone on to exceptional careers. Check out the story of "Carnie" from our Honors College (and some of us on the board also!!!)..

Of course, what this sadly points to is that our K-12 schools are still very often not getitng the job done and this is unacceptable.

At the end of the day, UCA does a great job and is very cost effective at what they are asked to do. More work to do but we rank well within the state.