Arkansas State University started in 1909 as an agricultural school for 189 students on a small farm in Crowley's Ridge. The mission was to help students in the area receive a quality education, and in 1913 the entire senior class received their high school diplomas. In 1931 the first baccalaureate degrees were awarded and in 1955 the school awarded its first master's degrees.

ASU realizes that in order to meet today's performance requirements, school districts and universities must develop partnerships to provide relevant and effective teacher education. Arkansas State University is making this a reality. Through these partnerships, school districts use Arkansas State University's high quality master's programs to recruit, retain and enhance the effectiveness of the very best teachers and administrators. Arkansas State University Academic Partnerships provide the most affordable and convenient programs available to educators.

This Academic Partnership is in step with the innovation that has become ASU's hallmark. Through this Academic Partnership, tuition will be reduced for the first time in years and access to higher education will be opened up for everyone. ASU is proud to be part of this movement and is excited to be an institution that is making a positive impact on society by offering education within reach of professionals with families, a budget, and full time jobs.

The Academic Partnership Academic Policies Guide (.pdf) contains helpful student policies and information.