Cheapest Journalism Colleges in Arkansas

Arkansas journalism programs reveal a striking cost divide between public universities charging around $12,000 annually and private institutions reaching $21,144. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers the state's most affordable option at just $11,679 net cost, while the flagship University of Arkansas produces graduates earning $36,884 within years of graduation. With Walmart headquarters driving Arkansas media coverage and regional newspapers serving rural communities, these programs prepare students for careers spanning corporate communications to local reporting. Graduation rates vary dramatically from 35% to 71% across the eleven programs.

Programs

$11,679 – $21,144

Net Price Range

$29,909

Avg. Program Earnings

51.4%

Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Journalism Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Pine Bluff, Arkansas	$11,679	$9,019	39.7%	69.3%
2	Arkansas Tech University Russellville, Arkansas	$12,171	$8,508	48.7%	94.4%
3	Arkansas State University Jonesboro, Arkansas	$13,085	$7,754	55.1%	69.5%
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	Central Baptist College Conway, Arkansas	$16,664	$19,680	35.3%	63.9%
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%
11	John Brown University Siloam Springs, Arkansas	$21,144	$30,832	66.8%	56.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff the cheapest journalism option?

Pine Bluff charges just $11,679 net annually, nearly $5,000 less than the next cheapest program. The university accepts 69% of applicants but maintains a 40% graduation rate, making affordability its primary advantage for budget-conscious students.

How do earnings compare between Arkansas journalism programs?

University of Arkansas graduates earn $36,884 early in their careers, significantly higher than Arkansas Tech's $20,140 average. This $16,744 earnings gap reflects the flagship university's stronger alumni networks and access to higher-paying media markets.

Is private education worth the extra cost for journalism in Arkansas?

Private schools like Harding University cost $20,579 annually but achieve 71% graduation rates compared to most public programs under 50%. The higher success rates may justify costs for students prioritizing completion over affordability.

Where do Arkansas journalism graduates typically find work?

Walmart's Bentonville headquarters creates corporate communications opportunities, while Tyson Foods and Dillard's also hire journalism graduates. Regional newspapers and broadcasting stations serve rural communities throughout the state, providing entry-level reporting positions.

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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.