Harding University
Continuing its 100-year tradition of providing a high quality Christian education, Harding University seeks to transform learners for global impact by engaging minds and nurturing faith so graduates are compassionate, capable and fully prepared to enter the workforce. The globally diverse student body includes those from 50 states and territories and 60 world nations. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of 22, students are mentored by distinguished faculty, 70% of whom hold terminal degrees. Within six months of graduation, 88% of graduates either begin careers or continue their education.
As White County’s third largest employer with more than 1,100 working on campus, the University also attracts many guests who visit Searcy each year. Harding’s annual economic impact on Searcy’s economy is $225 million.
In addition to making their homes in Searcy, students create lifelong memories and gain cultural literacy skills at one of Harding’s six international locations as well as a host of other opportunities for both domestic educational experiences and global mission trips. More than 220 international students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to make a significant difference in the lives of their communities. With more than 60,000 alumni living in more than 103 countries around the world, the University’s impact is truly global.
For a century, Harding has been deeply committed to service both at home and abroad. Blessed with a highly qualified and talented administration, faculty and staff, students, state-of-the-art facilities and a beautiful campus, the University is thrilled to continue sharing those blessings with the community.
Bison athletics include 18 NCAA Division II sports which provide a myriad of opportunities for community members to enjoy games and events. The 2023 NCAA Division II Bison football national champions set an NCAA record for rushing yards in a season — 6,160. Harding track and field athletes are also exceptional with two individual indoor national champions.
Harding hosts various summer programs for K-12 students including camps for sports, music, robotics, history, honors, engineering and more. The American Studies Institute annually hosts leaders in government, business and education — including former presidents and first ladies as well as heads of state from around the world — for public lectures and events. Other community attractions include the University’s walking trail that connects to Searcy’s bike trail, the food court in Hammon Student Center — featuring Chick-Fil-A, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Panda Express and Tacker’s Shake Shack — and annual holiday lights display.
Visit harding.edu/community for more information about free and low-cost health services options, entertainment, educational opportunities, activities, camps and athletic events made available to local communities.