At $8,652/yr net price, Arkansas State University-Beebe graduates earn $36,603/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,603/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,652 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $34,608 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,603/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,603/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 13.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $8,093 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,089/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,077/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,982/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,437/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,880/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $41,342 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $33,993 | |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Associate | $29,685 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $25,194 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $24,615 | $7,650 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $19,045 | $8,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Associate | $15,817 | $6,750 |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Associate | $14,935 | $7,000 |
The Risk Factor
38.2% of students at Arkansas State University-Beebe 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 State University-Beebe offers solid financial returns for a two-year college, with low debt loads that make career programs accessible to most students. Your median debt of just over $8,000 creates minimal financial risk while opening doors to middle-class careers.
Vehicle maintenance and repair technologies deliver the strongest payoff, with graduates earning $41,342 annually against minimal debt. Allied health programs also perform well at nearly $34,000 in median earnings. These technical programs align with Arkansas's manufacturing and healthcare job markets, giving you practical skills employers need.
The weaker returns come from precision metalworking and general business programs, where earnings drop to the mid-$20,000s. Business majors carry $7,650 in debt for a $24,615 salary, creating a longer payback period than the technical tracks.
The 38% graduation rate signals completion challenges you'll need to handle. Students who finish see reasonable returns, but dropping out leaves you with debt and no credential. Your success depends heavily on program choice and commitment to finishing.
This school works best if you want technical skills for immediate employment without heavy debt. The low net price of $8,652 makes it accessible even with limited financial aid coverage. Skip this option if you need a bachelor's degree for your career goals or want higher-earning potential that requires four-year programs. The technical focus serves students ready to enter the workforce quickly rather than those planning extensive additional education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arkansas State University-Beebe worth the cost?
Arkansas State University-Beebe offers solid value for career-focused programs, with a low net price of $8,652 and manageable debt levels. However, the 38% graduation rate is concerning, and earnings vary significantly by program.
What are the highest paying programs at Arkansas State University-Beebe?
Vehicle maintenance and repair technologies leads with $41,342 average earnings, followed by allied health programs at $33,993. Business programs earn significantly less at $24,615, making program choice critical for ROI.
How much debt do Arkansas State University-Beebe graduates have?
Median debt is $8,093, which is relatively low compared to most colleges. This keeps monthly payments manageable even for graduates earning around $36,603 annually.
What is the graduation rate at Arkansas State University-Beebe?
Only 38% of students graduate, meaning nearly two-thirds don't complete their programs. This significantly impacts the school's value proposition since non-graduates still accumulate debt without earning credentials.