Our Styles

International Public Debate Association (IPDA)



Students interested in debate should refer to the IPDA website, located here.

Eligibility Rules:
-Students with NO debate experience - Novice Division
-Students who have competed in 1-7 tournaments total - Novice Division, until a total of 8 tournaments is reached between high school and college. Then, students will move to the Junior Varsity division for the remainder of the season.
-Students with one year or more in debate entering college, or students with a full novice season - Junior Varsity Division
-Students with a full Novice and Junior Varsity season, or students with a full Junior Varsity season - Varsity Division
-Students with a bachelor’s degree or higher, individuals who have previously been enrolled at the University of Arkansas but are not currently enrolled, OR students comfortable with moving to the highest division - Professional Division

NOTE: Individuals who are NOT registered in classes may not compete in the novice/JV/varsity divisions.


The coach reserves the right to move students into higher divisions dependent on their performance

Founded in 1997, the International Public Debate Association is one of the fastest growing interscholastic debate associations in the nation with competitive programs ranging from California to Florida, from Texas to Michigan.  Their mission is to provide an opportunity for individuals to develop their advocacy skills in a forum that promotes appropriate and effective communication.