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Early College Programs

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Amanda Seidenzahl

A Message from the Executive Director

Amanda Seidenzahl wears a red blazer and black shirt during a professional photo shoot

Taking college courses while still in high school is a powerful way to accelerate your future career.

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers motivated students the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit through our Early College Programs—at no out-of-pocket cost to students or their families.

Our two pathways, Smart Start and WATC, allow students to customize their experience based on their goals. 

Whether a student's desire is earning a college degree or entering the workforce after high school, UAFS Early College Programs will help them succeed and support them every step of the way.

Amanda Seidenzahl - Executive Director of UAFS Early College Programs

Smart Start Early College Program

Ideal for students who want to complete general education courses while staying at their high school. Through this program, a partnership between UAFS and regional school districts, high school students take coursework that challenges them to think, interact, and learn at a higher level than standard high school classes. College credit earned through Smart Start transfers to UAFS and helps students get ahead in their degree journey.

To be eligible high school students must:

  • Have at least a 2.5 GPA and 19+ ACT sub scores in English (19+ ACT sub scores in Math for College Algebra) AND a 17+ sub score in Reading. 
  • OR receive placement for the program through the Accuplacer exam offered on the UAFS campus. 

Apply to Smart Start

Western Arkansas Technical Center


Designed for high school students interested in technical and career education, WATC courses provide hands-on training and industry certifications to prepare students for in-demand careers or further education. Delivered by UAFS faculty, these courses are taught both on the UAFS campus and at the Peak Innovation Center in Fort Smith. Since 1998, WATC has delivered cutting-edge technical and career training to more than 10,000 high school students across 22 River Valley school districts. Employers actively seek out WATC graduates because they are career-ready with the skills to succeed in today’s workforce.

To be eligible students must be in grades 11 - 12 and:

  • Have at least a 2.0 GPA
  • Test scores on file from ACT, or Accuplacer. Students in the Practical Nursing Program must have 19+ ACT subscores in English, Reading, and Math. 

Apply to WATC

How to Get Started

Taking the next step toward your future is easy! Follow these three simple steps to enroll in the Western Arkansas Technical Center (WATC) and begin your journey toward a high-demand career.

  1. Apply for Smart Start or WATC Admission: Start by completing the application for Early College Program Admission. This is your first step to unlocking college credit and career training while still in high school. 
  2. Meet with your High School Counselor: Once your application and participation agreement are complete, work with your high school counselor to adjust your schedule and make room for your WATC courses. Your counselor will help ensure a smooth transition into WATC.