UA Grantham: 75 Years of Purpose-Driven Education and Service to Students
For 75 years, University of Arkansas Grantham (UA Grantham) has remained steadfast in its mission: to provide quality, accessible, affordable, professionally relevant programs in a continuously changing global society. Since its founding in 1951, the university has evolved to meet the changing needs of adult learners, military service members, and working professionals, always staying true to its core purpose—helping students succeed on their terms.
A Mission Born from Service
UA Grantham’s roots trace back to post–World War II America, when returning veterans sought opportunities to transition from military service into meaningful civilian careers. Donald Grantham, a veteran himself, saw this need firsthand and established the Grantham Radio License School in Los Angeles. His goal was simple yet profound: empower servicemembers with the skills and certifications they needed to thrive in the growing field of electronics and communications.
This student-centered philosophy became the foundation of the institution. Grantham quickly grew from a small technical school to a nationally recognized distance education provider. As early as the 1960s, the institution was exploring alternative modes of education to reach more learners—including those who could not attend traditional on-campus programs due to work, family, or military obligations.
A Legacy of Innovation and Resilience
Through the years, UA Grantham has continuously evolved. By the 1970s, it was offering associate degrees, and by the 1980s, it had expanded into bachelor’s programs in electronics engineering and computer science. In 2000, the university took a bold step, moving its entire degree catalog online. This decision, made long before remote learning became mainstream, was a game-changer—one that positioned Grantham to meet the needs of 21st-century learners long before many others did.
That spirit of resilience was tested in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina struck, severely impacting the university's operations in Louisiana. Undeterred, the institution quickly relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, where it reestablished its headquarters and continued serving students with minimal disruption. This ability to adapt and push forward during challenging times is a hallmark of UA Grantham’s enduring legacy.
Becoming Part of a Stronger System
In 2021, Grantham University became part of the University of Arkansas System—a move that brought even greater resources and recognition to the institution. As UA Grantham, the university benefits from the backing of a respected public university system while maintaining the flexible, student-focused mission that has guided it since 1951.
Today, UA Grantham offers multiple online degree and certificate programs through its four colleges: the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology; the College of Business; the College of Humanities and Social Sciences; and the College of Health Professions. These programs are designed to align with current job market demands, ensuring that students graduate with relevant, applicable skills.
Serving Those Who Serve—and So Many More
UA Grantham remains one of the most military-friendly online universities in the nation. Through its Heroes Program and other military initiatives, the university offers reduced tuition, textbook and fee waivers, and personalized support to military service members and veterans. But its reach extends far beyond the military. Thousands of adult learners, career changers, first-generation college students, and working parents turn to UA Grantham each year to pursue their educational goals on their schedule.
To further support student success, UA Grantham provides one of the lowest tuition rates in the country—and includes a laptop at no-cost for new and returning students enrolled in degree programs. Combined with outstanding support, tutoring, and a student-first advising model, these resources help learners stay focused and on track.
75 Years—and Just Getting Started
As UA Grantham marks 75 years of service, the milestone is not just a celebration of longevity—it's a testament to impact. The university has empowered tens of thousands of graduates to transform their lives, uplift their families, and strengthen their communities.
While the educational landscape continues to change, UA Grantham remains grounded in the belief that everyone deserves access to a quality education—regardless of where they live, when they learn, or what challenges they face.
With an eye on the future and a deep respect for its past, UA Grantham continues to move forward—75 years strong, and still on a mission to do more.