Transitions Academic Program (TAP)

The Transitions Academic Program (TAP) is a partnership between the University of Arkansas and Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) that supports promising students who do not meet full admission requirements at the time of application to the U of A. As members of TAP, students have the opportunity to take courses at both the U of A and NWACC and benefit from academic support on both campuses during their first year of college.

TAP students are Razorbacks from their very first day on campus. As active members of the freshman class, they receive many of the same privileges as degree-seeking U of A students, including access to:

  • Orientation experiences
  • Student Success Center
  • On-campus housing
  • Library resources
  • Registered Student Organizations
  • Intramurals
  • Razorback Access Pass for sporting events
  • Student Health Services
  • Recreational facilities

How TAP Works

TAP participants are admitted as non-degree seeking students at the U of A and attend NWACC as degree-seeking students. During their first fall and spring semesters, all TAP students enroll in one course at the U of A (typically 3 hours), plus an additional 1-hour course in the fall, and three or four courses at NWACC's Springdale campus (typically 9-12 hours). All students enroll in either 1000 or 2000 level coursework (or remedial coursework as required).

TAP students apply for degree-seeking status at the University of Arkansas once they have met the following criteria:

  • Complete 2 full semesters at NWACC
  • Complete 18 transferrable course hours at NWACC
    • Complete 6 hours of non-degree work at the U of A
    • Maintain a combined GPA of 2.0 or higher

Admission as a degree-seeking student at the U of A does not guarantee admission to a specific college or program. Please note that zero-level coursework is non-transferable. Other requirements may apply.

Students may not apply directly to the TAP program. It is only offered to selected students who apply for admission to the University of Arkansas. Our Frequently Asked Questions page has more information.

TAP Coordinator

Chad Cox, Associate Director of Admissions
Email: chadc@uark.edu
Phone: 479-575-4150