Williams Baptist University Joins SAGE Scholars College Consortium
Founded in 1941 by Arkansas Baptists and located in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, Williams Baptist University is a private, nonprofit institution owned and operated by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. The university is built around a mission of developing students academically, professionally, and spiritually, preparing graduates to lead purposeful, service-oriented lives. With an enrollment of approximately 500 students, Williams offers the kind of small-campus environment where students receive individualized attention from faculty and build close relationships across the community.
Williams offers more than 30 undergraduate degree programs spanning the liberal arts and professionally focused fields, including business, education, Christian ministries, natural sciences, psychology, sports management, and communication arts, along with online graduate programs in education. One of the university's most distinctive features is Williams Works, a work-based program in which participating students work 16 hours per week during the academic year in exchange for coverage of tuition and student service fees, gaining practical career experience while reducing the cost of their degree. Beyond the classroom, students take part in campus ministry, music and performing arts, service opportunities, and NAIA athletics as members of the Williams Eagles.
Together, SAGE Scholars and Williams Baptist University are strengthening pathways to private higher education and ensuring that students who prepare for college have meaningful options to pursue their goals.
Williams Baptist University
Williams Baptist University is a Christ-centered work college in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, dedicated to cultivating Christ-centered leaders who make a difference through their lifework. Founded in 1941 by Arkansas Baptists, WBU offers a private Christian education where faith is integrated into every part of campus life—from the classroom to athletics and performing arts.
Students can choose from a range of undergraduate majors in business, education, ministry, the arts, and the sciences while learning in small classes led by faculty who know them by name. Through our innovative Williams Works program, eligible students work approximately 16 hours per week during the academic year and may pay 0 tuition, gaining real-world experience and a strong work ethic as they study.
At Williams, college is more than earning credits—it’s formation for faithful lifework. Our mission is to help students earn a Christ-centered degree, connect to a supportive community, and graduate prepared to serve God and neighbor through their careers, families, and callings.
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