Cheapest Chemistry Colleges in Arkansas

Arkansas chemistry programs show a remarkable cost advantage, with the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith leading at just $10,097 net price. The gap between most affordable public options and private schools stretches to $12,000 annually, making state universities particularly attractive for budget-conscious students. Graduation rates vary significantly across the 17 programs, from 32% at Philander Smith University to 71% at Ouachita Baptist University. Arkansas chemistry graduates enter a state economy anchored by major corporations like Tyson Foods, where food science and agricultural chemistry create steady demand for analytical skills. The University of Arkansas flagship campus offers mid-range pricing at $17,525 with a solid 70% graduation rate, while smaller programs like University of the Ozarks provide personalized attention at competitive costs for a private institution.

Programs

$10,097 – $23,409

Net Price Range

$32,878

Avg. Program Earnings

52.4%

Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Chemistry Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Fort Smith, Arkansas	$10,097	$6,906	37.0%
2	University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Pine Bluff, Arkansas	$11,679	$9,019	39.7%	69.3%
3	Arkansas Tech University Russellville, Arkansas	$12,171	$8,508	48.7%	94.4%
4	Arkansas State University Jonesboro, Arkansas	$13,085	$7,754	55.1%	69.5%
5	University of the Ozarks Clarksville, Arkansas	$13,630	$25,950	51.8%	60.1%
6	University of Arkansas at Monticello Monticello, Arkansas	$14,013	$8,868	43.3%
7	Philander Smith University Little Rock, Arkansas	$15,360	$13,014	32.3%
8	Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Magnolia, Arkansas	$15,944	$9,820	46.5%	63.6%
9	University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock, Arkansas	$16,136	$8,455	41.4%	61.5%
10	University of Central Arkansas Conway, Arkansas	$16,775	$10,118	53.3%	91.2%
11	Henderson State University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$16,929	$7,885	38.0%	70.7%
12	University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas	$17,525	$9,748	70.0%	78.9%
13	Harding University Searcy, Arkansas	$20,579	$24,888	70.9%	45.1%
14	John Brown University Siloam Springs, Arkansas	$21,144	$30,832	66.8%	56.6%
15	Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$22,355	$32,480	70.3%	72.3%
16	Lyon College Batesville, Arkansas	$22,670	$31,000	55.9%	59.8%
17	Hendrix College Conway, Arkansas	$23,409	$36,650	69.2%	60.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Arkansas-Fort Smith the most affordable option?

The Fort Smith campus offers the lowest net price at $10,097, with in-state tuition of just $6,906. This represents significant savings compared to other Arkansas chemistry programs. The school maintains a 37% graduation rate while keeping costs minimal for students seeking chemistry education without heavy debt loads.

How much do private chemistry programs cost compared to public ones?

Private schools like Ouachita Baptist University charge $22,355 net price, while public options like Arkansas Tech cost $12,171. University of the Ozarks offers the best private value at $13,630 net price. The premium for private education ranges from $3,000 to $12,000 annually depending on the institution.

Where do Arkansas chemistry graduates typically find employment?

Arkansas hosts major employers like Tyson Foods and Walmart that utilize chemistry skills in food science, logistics, and product development. The state's agriculture and retail sectors create opportunities for analytical chemists and quality control specialists. Early career earnings range from $26,353 to $38,289 depending on the program and career path chosen.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Arkansas chemistry programs?

Higher-priced programs generally show better completion rates, with Harding University at $20,579 achieving 71% graduation. However, mid-priced options like Arkansas State University deliver 55% graduation rates at just $13,085 net cost. The relationship isn't absolute, as some affordable programs struggle with retention while others succeed.

More Chemistry Rankings

Best Value Chemistry in Arkansas Chemistry Under $20,000 in Arkansas

All Chemistry Programs Best Colleges in Arkansas Best Chemistry in Arkansas

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