Skip to main content

Best Value Biology Colleges in Arkansas

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith delivers the state's most affordable Biology program at $10,097 net cost, yet produces graduates earning $23,869 annually. This creates an unusual changing where the cheapest option doesn't necessarily offer the best return on investment. Arkansas Tech University students pay just $2,000 more but earn $8,000 more after graduation. The state's biology graduates enter a job market supported by major employers like Tyson Foods, which requires food safety scientists and quality control specialists. Private schools command significantly higher prices, with Hendrix College charging $23,409 compared to public options averaging $14,500. Graduation rates vary dramatically across the 15 programs, from 35% at Central Baptist College to over 70% at flagship institutions. These disparities reflect different institutional approaches to supporting biology students through demanding coursework in organic chemistry, genetics, and laboratory sciences.
19
Programs
$10,097 – $23,409
Net Price Range
$27,395
Avg. Program Earnings
50.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Biology, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,171 $31,851 $8,508 48.7% 94.4%
2 $10,097 $23,869 $6,906 37.0%
3 $13,085 $30,672 $7,754 55.1% 69.5%
4 $13,630 $29,685 $25,950 51.8% 60.1%
5 $11,679 $25,194 $9,019 39.7% 69.3%
6 $16,136 $32,391 $8,455 41.4% 61.5%
7 $17,525 $29,413 $9,748 70.0% 78.9%
8 $16,775 $22,329 $10,118 53.3% 91.2%
9 $22,670 $25,194 $31,000 55.9% 59.8%
10 $22,355 $23,351 $32,480 70.3% 72.3%
11 $20,579 $24,888 70.9% 45.1%
12 $16,929 $7,885 38.0% 70.7%
13 $23,409 $36,650 69.2% 60.3%
14 $21,144 $30,832 66.8% 56.6%
15 $16,664 $19,680 35.3% 63.9%
16 $15,360 $13,014 32.3%
17 $15,875 $20,330 35.9% 59.3%
18 $15,944 $9,820 46.5% 63.6%
19 $14,013 $8,868 43.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Arkansas Tech University stand out among biology programs?

Arkansas Tech achieves the best balance of cost and outcomes with a $12,171 net price and $31,851 graduate earnings. The program maintains a 48.7% graduation rate while accepting 94% of applicants. Students graduate with $16,780 in debt, among the lowest in the state for four-year institutions.

How do private college biology programs compare to public options in Arkansas?

Private colleges average $21,000 in net costs compared to $14,500 for public schools. However, graduation rates at top private institutions like Harding University reach 70.9% versus 48% average at public schools. The earnings gap is smaller, with most graduates earning between $23,000-$32,000 regardless of institution type.

Is University of Arkansas worth the higher cost for biology students?

The flagship campus charges $17,525 net cost, making it more expensive than most state schools. However, it offers a 70% graduation rate and strong alumni networks. Graduate earnings of $29,413 fall in the middle range, suggesting the premium may reflect research opportunities rather than salary outcomes.

Where do Arkansas biology graduates typically find employment?

Tyson Foods headquarters in Springdale creates demand for food scientists and microbiologists. Healthcare systems across Little Rock and Fayetteville hire laboratory technicians and research assistants. Many graduates pursue additional education, with the state's medical and pharmacy schools providing pathways to higher-earning careers.

More Biology, General Rankings

Cheapest Biology, General in Arkansas Biology, General Under $20,000 in Arkansas

Related

All Biology, General Programs Best Colleges in Arkansas Best Biology, General in Arkansas

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.