At $11,139/yr net price, Arkansas Baptist College graduates earn $28,418/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $11,139 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $44,556 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $28,418/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-5,582/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 8.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,375 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,700/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,820/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $18,924/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,340/yr |
| $110,001+ | $20,431/yr |
The Risk Factor
8.0% of students at Arkansas Baptist College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Arkansas Baptist College presents a concerning financial picture with a median 10-year earnings of $28,418 and an 8% graduation rate that ranks among the lowest in the nation. Your investment faces significant risk given that over 90% of students do not complete their degree.
The school's $11,139 net price appears affordable, but the economics break down when you factor in the graduation challenges. With median debt of $25,375 and post-graduation earnings barely above $28,000, you face a debt-to-income ratio that will strain your finances for years. The 21% retention rate signals that most students transfer or drop out after freshman year, potentially leaving you with debt but no degree.
Arkansas Baptist College functions primarily as a regional institution serving Little Rock's job market, where entry-level positions in social services, education, and community organizations align with the school's mission-focused programs. However, the low completion rates suggest systemic academic support issues that affect all majors.
This school might work for you if you need a local, faith-based environment and have strong family or community support systems to help you handle the academic challenges. The 46% of students receiving aid indicates some financial assistance availability, though you should verify specific scholarship opportunities.
You should look elsewhere if you prioritize career earnings, need strong academic support services, or want a traditional college experience with higher graduation likelihood. Community colleges followed by transfer to four-year institutions often provide better ROI for students seeking affordable Arkansas education options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arkansas Baptist College worth the cost?
Arkansas Baptist College has significant value challenges, with graduates earning $28,418 ten years after enrollment and carrying median debt of $25,375. The 8% graduation rate means most students leave without completing their degree, making the investment particularly risky.
What is the return on investment for Arkansas Baptist College graduates?
The ROI is poor compared to national averages, with graduates earning roughly $28,000 annually a decade after starting college. With typical debt loads around $25,000, most graduates will struggle to see positive returns on their educational investment.
How much debt do Arkansas Baptist College students typically graduate with?
Students who complete their degree at Arkansas Baptist College graduate with median debt of $25,375. However, with only 8% of students actually graduating, most who attend end up with debt but no degree to show for it.
Are there better alternatives to Arkansas Baptist College for the money?
Yes, community colleges and state universities in Arkansas typically offer better graduation rates and earnings outcomes for similar or lower costs. The extremely low graduation rate at Arkansas Baptist College makes it difficult to recommend over other options.