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Cheapest Accounting and Related Services Colleges in Arkansas

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Arkansas accounting programs offer remarkable value, with University of Arkansas Grantham delivering education for just $9,325 net price while University of Arkansas graduates earn $50,606 annually. The 15 programs span a dramatic cost range from under $10,000 to over $17,000, yet even the most expensive remains accessible compared to national averages. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with seven charging under $15,000 net price. Arkansas's accounting job market benefits from major corporate headquarters including Walmart in Bentonville, creating steady demand for financial professionals throughout the retail and logistics sectors. Graduation rates vary significantly, from Arkansas Baptist College's 8% to University of Arkansas's 70%, suggesting students should weigh completion likelihood against sticker price. The state's low cost of living amplifies the value proposition, allowing graduates to stretch starting salaries of $28,055 to $57,047 further than peers in expensive markets.
20
Programs
$9,325 – $23,409
Net Price Range
$42,252
Avg. Program Earnings
47.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Accounting and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $9,325 $8,280 24.3%
2 $10,097 $6,906 37.0%
3 $11,139 $8,760 8.0%
4 $11,679 $9,019 39.7% 69.3%
5 $12,171 $8,508 48.7% 94.4%
6 $13,085 $7,754 55.1% 69.5%
7 $13,630 $25,950 51.8% 60.1%
8 $14,013 $8,868 43.3%
9 $15,944 $9,820 46.5% 63.6%
10 $16,136 $8,455 41.4% 61.5%
11 $16,664 $19,680 35.3% 63.9%
12 $16,775 $10,118 53.3% 91.2%
13 $16,929 $7,885 38.0% 70.7%
14 $17,236 $16,440 26.1%
15 $17,525 $9,748 70.0% 78.9%
16 $20,579 $24,888 70.9% 45.1%
17 $21,144 $30,832 66.8% 56.6%
18 $22,355 $32,480 70.3% 72.3%
19 $22,670 $31,000 55.9% 59.8%
20 $23,409 $36,650 69.2% 60.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic graduation rate differences among Arkansas accounting programs?

Graduation rates range from just 8% at Arkansas Baptist College to 70% at University of Arkansas, a 62-percentage-point gap that reflects varying student support systems and admission standards. University of Arkansas accepts 78.93% of applicants but maintains strong completion rates, while Arkansas Tech University has a 94.39% acceptance rate with 48.70% graduation rate. Schools with higher net prices don't necessarily deliver better outcomes, as University of the Ozarks charges $13,630 but graduates 51.80% of students. Students should prioritize completion rates alongside affordability when selecting programs.

How do Arkansas accounting graduate earnings compare to program costs?

University of Arkansas at Little Rock graduates earn $48,667 annually despite a moderate $16,136 net price, offering strong return on investment. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has the lowest graduate earnings at $28,055, though its $11,679 net price keeps debt manageable. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith delivers impressive value with $51,392 graduate earnings and just $10,097 net cost. The earnings range of $28,055 to $57,047 reflects Arkansas's varied economy, from rural markets to corporate headquarters in Bentonville and Little Rock.

Is student debt a major concern for Arkansas accounting graduates?

Arkansas accounting programs generally produce manageable debt loads, with Southern Arkansas University graduates carrying just $14,848 in median debt. University of Central Arkansas students graduate with $16,798 debt while earning $45,305 annually, creating favorable debt-to-income ratios. However, University of Arkansas Grantham students face $33,333 in debt despite the program's low net price, suggesting financial aid structures vary significantly. The state's affordable living costs help graduates service debt more easily than peers in expensive metropolitan areas.

Does University of Arkansas justify its higher cost compared to regional universities?

University of Arkansas charges $17,525 net price but delivers the state's highest graduation rate at 70% and strong earnings of $50,606 for graduates. Arkansas Tech University costs $12,171 with 48.70% graduation rates and $43,798 earnings, offering solid value at $5,354 less annually. University of Central Arkansas splits the difference at $16,775 with 53.30% graduation rates and $45,305 earnings. The flagship's higher cost reflects greater resources, research opportunities, and alumni networks that can accelerate career advancement.

Where do Arkansas accounting graduates find the best job opportunities?

Walmart's Bentonville headquarters creates substantial demand for accounting professionals, with the retail giant employing thousands in financial roles. Tyson Foods in Springdale and Dillard's department stores provide additional corporate opportunities for graduates seeking Fortune 500 experience. University of Arkansas at Little Rock and University of Arkansas graduates often access these premium positions due to proximity and alumni connections. Rural markets served by regional universities like Arkansas Tech and Southern Arkansas offer public accounting and small business opportunities with lower competition but modest starting salaries.

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