Cheapest History Colleges in Arkansas

History programs in Arkansas show remarkable cost variation, with University of Arkansas-Fort Smith charging just $10,097 annually while private options like John Brown University reach $21,144. The state's 18 programs produce graduates earning between $26,353 and $32,569, reflecting Arkansas's economy where historical research skills apply to the retail giant Walmart's corporate archives, Tyson Foods' century-long agricultural records, and the state's growing tourism sector highlighting Civil Rights history. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with six schools under $16,000 total cost. University of Arkansas leads in graduation rates at 70%, while Harding University achieves 70.9% despite higher costs. The earnings data reveals that history graduates can expect starting salaries that, combined with Arkansas's low living costs, provide solid financial footing for careers in education, museums, government, and corporate research roles.

Programs

$10,097 – $23,409

Net Price Range

$28,835

Avg. Program Earnings

51.6%

Avg. Graduation Rate

18 History 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	Williams Baptist University Walnut Ridge, Arkansas	$15,875	$20,330	35.9%	59.3%
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	Central Baptist College Conway, Arkansas	$16,664	$19,680	35.3%	63.9%
11	University of Central Arkansas Conway, Arkansas	$16,775	$10,118	53.3%	91.2%
12	Henderson State University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$16,929	$7,885	38.0%	70.7%
13	University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas	$17,525	$9,748	70.0%	78.9%
14	Harding University Searcy, Arkansas	$20,579	$24,888	70.9%	45.1%
15	John Brown University Siloam Springs, Arkansas	$21,144	$30,832	66.8%	56.6%
16	Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$22,355	$32,480	70.3%	72.3%
17	Lyon College Batesville, Arkansas	$22,670	$31,000	55.9%	59.8%
18	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 total annual cost, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers the state's lowest-priced history program. In-state students pay just $6,906 in tuition, making it accessible even with limited financial resources. Graduates earn an average of $27,669 annually, providing reasonable return on investment. However, the 37% graduation rate indicates students should plan carefully for academic success.

How do private college costs compare to public universities?

Private history programs in Arkansas cost significantly more, with University of the Ozarks at $13,630 representing the most affordable private option. John Brown University reaches $21,144 annually, more than double the cost of most public alternatives. Despite higher costs, private schools like Harding University achieve 70.9% graduation rates. Students must weigh the 45.12% acceptance rate and outcomes against the financial investment.

Do Arkansas history graduates earn enough to justify program costs?

History graduates in Arkansas earn between $26,353 and $32,569 annually, with University of Arkansas-Little Rock producing the highest earners at $32,569. Even graduates from the most affordable programs like Arkansas Tech University earn $26,353, creating positive return on investment given low program costs. The state's low cost of living helps stretch these salaries further than in many other regions.

Which schools offer the best combination of affordability and outcomes?

University of Arkansas balances moderate costs at $17,525 with the highest graduation rate among public schools at 70%. Arkansas State University provides another strong option at $13,085 with a 55.1% graduation rate and 69.51% acceptance rate. University of Central Arkansas costs $16,775 but graduates earn $27,048 annually with a 53.3% completion rate, making it competitive for value-focused students.

More History Rankings

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

All History Programs Best Colleges in Arkansas Best History in Arkansas

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