Cheapest Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Colleges in Arkansas

Arkansas theatre programs span a remarkable $13,312 cost range, from University of Arkansas-Fort Smith at $10,097 to Hendrix College at $23,409. The state's entertainment industry benefits from proximity to major corporate events and training programs, particularly around Walmart's Bentonville headquarters and Little Rock's business district. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with six schools under $17,000 net cost. Private institutions like Harding University achieve 70.9% graduation rates but command higher prices, while public options like University of Arkansas deliver strong outcomes at $17,525 net cost.

Programs

$10,097 – $23,409

Net Price Range

$18,087

Avg. Program Earnings

55.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft 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	Arkansas State University Jonesboro, Arkansas	$13,085	$7,754	55.1%	69.5%
3	University of the Ozarks Clarksville, Arkansas	$13,630	$25,950	51.8%	60.1%
4	Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Magnolia, Arkansas	$15,944	$9,820	46.5%	63.6%
5	University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock, Arkansas	$16,136	$8,455	41.4%	61.5%
6	University of Central Arkansas Conway, Arkansas	$16,775	$10,118	53.3%	91.2%
7	Henderson State University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$16,929	$7,885	38.0%	70.7%
8	University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas	$17,525	$9,748	70.0%	78.9%
9	Harding University Searcy, Arkansas	$20,579	$24,888	70.9%	45.1%
10	Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$22,355	$32,480	70.3%	72.3%
11	Lyon College Batesville, Arkansas	$22,670	$31,000	55.9%	59.8%
12	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?

At $10,097 net cost, UAFS offers the lowest-priced theatre program in Arkansas. The school maintains a 37% graduation rate while keeping in-state tuition at just $6,906, making it accessible for students prioritizing affordability over completion rates.

How do private college theatre programs compare in cost and outcomes?

Private schools average $22,268 net cost but deliver stronger graduation rates. Harding University achieves 70.9% completion at $20,579, while Ouachita Baptist reaches 70.3% at $22,355, both significantly outperforming most public alternatives.

Is University of Central Arkansas worth considering for theatre students?

UCA accepts 91.21% of applicants while maintaining a 53.3% graduation rate at $16,775 net cost. This combination of accessibility and reasonable outcomes makes it attractive for students who want options beyond the most competitive programs.

Where do Arkansas theatre graduates typically find employment opportunities?

Early career earnings average $18,087 across Arkansas theatre programs. The state's corporate sector, anchored by Walmart and Tyson Foods, creates demand for corporate training, events, and internal communications roles that utilize theatre skills.

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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.