College ROI Report
Updated 2024
Best-value Colleges in Arkansas
Birthplace of former President Bill Clinton, Walmart founder Sam Walton, and singers Johnny Cash and Glen Campbell, Arkansas offers exciting opportunities for students who are interested in playing sports, taking part in outdoor activities, exploring cultural opportunities or simply enjoying the relaxed lifestyle. Many students are attracted to Arkansas because they enjoy the down-to-earth attitude, beautiful countryside and rich culture, and the state’s colleges boast vibrant student life and great academic programs.
| Rank | School Name | 20 Year Net ROI | Total 4 Year Cost | Graduation Rate | Typical Years to Graduate | Average Loan Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank:11 | School Name: University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (In-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$223,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$86,600 | Graduation Rate:42% | Typical Years to Graduate:4 | Average Loan Amount:$19,500 |
| Rank:12 | School Name:_50px.png) Arkansas State University-Main Campus (Out-of-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$205,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$119,000 | Graduation Rate:53% | Typical Years to Graduate:4 | Average Loan Amount:$22,400 |
| Rank:13 | School Name: Arkansas Tech University (Out-of-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$202,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$106,000 | Graduation Rate:49% | Typical Years to Graduate:4 | Average Loan Amount:$26,800 |
| Rank:14 | School Name:University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (Out-of-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$194,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$116,000 | Graduation Rate:42% | Typical Years to Graduate:4 | Average Loan Amount:$19,500 |
| Rank:15 | School Name: University of Arkansas at Monticello (In-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$192,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$82,000 | Graduation Rate:39% | Typical Years to Graduate:6 | Average Loan Amount:$22,400 |
| Rank:16 | School Name: Southern Arkansas University Main Campus (In-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$184,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$98,200 | Graduation Rate:45% | Typical Years to Graduate:5 | Average Loan Amount:$23,800 |
| Rank:17 | School Name:University of Arkansas at Monticello (Out-of-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$168,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$105,000 | Graduation Rate:39% | Typical Years to Graduate:6 | Average Loan Amount:$22,400 |
| Rank:18 | School Name:Ouachita Baptist University (Private) | 20 Year Net ROI:$165,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$171,000 | Graduation Rate:65% | Typical Years to Graduate:4 | Average Loan Amount:$29,400 |
| Rank:19 | School Name:Southern Arkansas University Main Campus (Out-of-State) | 20 Year Net ROI:$164,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$118,000 | Graduation Rate:45% | Typical Years to Graduate:5 | Average Loan Amount:$23,800 |
| Rank:20 | School Name:University of the Ozarks (Private) | 20 Year Net ROI:$160,000 | Total 4 Year Cost:$145,000 | Graduation Rate:41% | Typical Years to Graduate:4 | Average Loan Amount:$24,800 |
Earning a degree in Arkansas is a financially sound decision. The state’s most popular schools offer valuable educations and high ROIs over a 20-year period. Home of the Razorbacks, the University of Arkansas’s main campus in Fayetteville offers low student-to-teacher ratios. The U of A combines a students-first philosophy with rigorous academics to help students make the most of their opportunities. Most students graduate in four years from this public college.
Another of the best value colleges of Arkansas is Harding University, a private not-for-profit school located in Searcy. A Christian school, Harding is home to a variety of social clubs and honor societies that encourage student involvement. Duck Dynasty star Willie Roberston and his daughter-in-law Korie both attended Harding. Another private school, John Brown also offers a good return on investment.
When it comes to college return on investment in Arkansas, though, the state’s public colleges dominate. For example, Southern Arkansas University alumni enjoy a low overall cost of attendance.
More rankings for best-value colleges:
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