Cheapest Mathematics Colleges in Arkansas

Mathematics graduates from the University of Arkansas earn $53,358 annually, significantly outpacing other state programs where earnings typically range from $31,670 to $39,927. This earnings gap reflects the flagship university's stronger connections to Arkansas's data-driven industries, including Walmart's massive analytics operations and the quantitative demands of the state's logistics sector. The most affordable option, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith at $10,097 net cost, demonstrates how students can access mathematics education without substantial debt. Public universities dominate the affordable market, with 10 of the 12 cheapest programs offered by state institutions. Private schools like University of the Ozarks break into the affordable range at $13,630, though most private options cluster above $20,000. Graduation rates vary considerably, from 32% at Philander Smith University to 70% at both University of Arkansas and Ouachita Baptist University, suggesting that program completion depends heavily on institutional resources and student support systems.

Programs

$10,097 – $23,409

Net Price Range

$39,381

Avg. Program Earnings

52.4%

Avg. Graduation Rate

17 Mathematics 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 mathematics program?

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers the lowest net cost at $10,097, with in-state tuition of just $6,906. The school maintains affordability through strong state funding and lower operational costs compared to flagship institutions. While graduation rates sit at 37%, the program provides access to mathematics education for students prioritizing minimal debt over prestige.

How do public and private mathematics programs compare in Arkansas?

Public universities claim 11 of the 12 most affordable spots, with costs ranging from $10,097 to $16,929. Private institutions start at $13,630 for University of the Ozarks but quickly jump to over $20,000. However, private schools show stronger graduation rates, with Harding University achieving 70.9% compared to public averages around 40-55%.

Where do Arkansas mathematics graduates earn the highest salaries?

University of Arkansas graduates earn $53,358, substantially higher than Arkansas Tech's $31,670 or Arkansas State's $32,569. This $21,688 difference reflects the flagship university's research opportunities and stronger alumni networks in Arkansas's major corporations. The premium justifies the higher net cost of $17,525 for many career-focused students.

Does attending a more expensive program guarantee better graduation rates?

Not necessarily, as the data shows mixed results across price points. University of Arkansas at $17,525 achieves 70% graduation rates, while Henderson State at $16,929 manages only 38%. University of the Ozarks delivers 51.8% graduation rates at $13,630, proving that institutional support matters more than pure spending levels.

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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.