At $13,085/yr net price, Arkansas State University graduates earn $42,617/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,617/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,085 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $52,340 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $42,617/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$8,617/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 55.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,806/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,300/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,092/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,587/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,431/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $135,614 | $61,500 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $68,422 | $65,000 |
| Homeland Security. | Master | $61,516 | |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $59,124 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $58,142 | $21,222 |
| Engineering, General. | Bachelor | $58,131 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $57,318 | $25,501 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $56,544 | $22,593 |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $54,996 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $54,766 | $15,750 |
The Risk Factor
55.1% of students at Arkansas State University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Arkansas State University delivers solid financial returns for a regional public school, with a low net price that keeps debt manageable for most graduates. The median debt of $20,500 paired with $42,617 in median earnings creates a reasonable debt-to-income ratio that puts graduates in workable financial positions.
Nursing programs stand out as strong investments, with the top nursing track producing $135,614 in median earnings despite higher debt levels. Even the second nursing option delivers $58,142 with debt below the school median. Rehabilitation and therapeutic professions also command strong salaries at $68,422, though you'll carry significantly more debt. Engineering and homeland security graduates earn solid middle-class incomes that justify their education costs.
The biggest risk is the 55% graduation rate, meaning nearly half of students who enroll never finish their degrees. If you struggle academically or lack clear career direction, you could end up with debt but no degree. The 78% retention rate suggests many students realize this isn't the right fit after freshman year.
Arkansas State works best if you're pursuing healthcare, engineering, or public safety careers and want to minimize costs while staying in Arkansas or the broader region. The school makes less sense for students seeking high-earning business or technology careers, as those programs aren't among the top earners here. With only 37% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited, so your main cost advantage comes from the inherently low sticker price rather than institutional discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arkansas State University worth the cost compared to other schools?
Arkansas State University offers decent value with a relatively low net price of $13,085 per year, but graduates earn only $42,617 after 10 years, which is below the national average. The school's 55% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish their degree.
What are the best paying majors at Arkansas State University?
Nursing programs lead Arkansas State University's earnings with graduates making up to $135,614, followed by rehabilitation professions at $68,422. Most other programs produce significantly lower earnings, so choosing your major carefully matters for ROI.
How much student debt do Arkansas State University graduates typically have?
Arkansas State University graduates leave with a median debt of $20,500, which is manageable compared to many schools. However, with average earnings of $42,617, graduates may still struggle to pay off loans quickly.
Should I choose Arkansas State University if I'm concerned about job prospects?
Arkansas State University's 69% acceptance rate and below-average graduate earnings suggest limited selectivity and career outcomes. The school works best for students pursuing high-paying programs like nursing or those who need an affordable local option.