Cheapest Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Arkansas

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith delivers the state's most affordable computer science education at just $10,097 net cost, nearly half the price of most alternatives. The $58,982 earnings gap between top and bottom performers reflects Arkansas's tech market, where Walmart's massive IT operations alongside companies like Tyson Foods create demand for both enterprise-level developers and business systems analysts. Arkansas Tech graduates earn $52,107 annually while carrying only $19,975 in debt, making it a solid middle-ground option. Public universities dominate affordability here, with nine of ten schools offering in-state tuition under $11,000.

Programs

$10,097 – $20,579

Net Price Range

$56,559

Avg. Program Earnings

50.1%

Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Computer and Information Sciences, General 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	Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Magnolia, Arkansas	$15,944	$9,820	46.5%	63.6%
6	University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock, Arkansas	$16,136	$8,455	41.4%	61.5%
7	University of Central Arkansas Conway, Arkansas	$16,775	$10,118	53.3%	91.2%
8	Henderson State University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$16,929	$7,885	38.0%	70.7%
9	University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas	$17,525	$9,748	70.0%	78.9%
10	Harding University Searcy, Arkansas	$20,579	$24,888	70.9%	45.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Arkansas the earnings leader for computer science graduates?

Fayetteville graduates earn $69,079 annually, significantly above the state average of $52,107. The flagship campus attracts major tech recruiters and offers stronger alumni networks in higher-paying markets.

How do graduation rates vary among affordable Arkansas computer science programs?

Graduation rates range from 37% at UA-Fort Smith to 70.9% at Harding University. State schools like Arkansas State (55.1%) and Central Arkansas (53.3%) fall in the middle range.

Is private education worth the extra cost for computer science in Arkansas?

Harding University costs $20,579 but graduates earn $52,733 with just $19,338 debt. Most public alternatives offer better value, with Arkansas Tech providing similar earnings at $12,171 total cost.

Where do Arkansas computer science graduates typically find employment?

Walmart's Bentonville headquarters employs hundreds of software engineers and data scientists. Tyson Foods and Dillard's also hire extensively for business systems and enterprise applications roles throughout the state.

More Computer and Information Sciences, General Rankings

Best Value Computer and Information Sciences, General in Arkansas Computer and Information Sciences, General Under $20,000 in Arkansas

All Computer and Information Sciences, General Programs Best Colleges in Arkansas Best Computer and Information Sciences, General in Arkansas

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