At $5,895/yr net price, Southern Arkansas University Tech graduates earn $36,376/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,376/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,895 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $23,580 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,376/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,376/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 61.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,645/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,640/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,053/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,197/yr |
| $110,001+ | $11,440/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Associate | $41,007 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $29,685 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Associate | $28,055 | |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Associate | $24,035 |
The Risk Factor
61.2% of students at Southern Arkansas University Tech graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Southern Arkansas University Tech delivers solid financial returns for a two-year technical college, with graduates earning a median of $36,376 annually while carrying minimal debt of just $6,000. The school's low net price of $5,895 per year means you can complete your education without the crushing debt loads that plague four-year institutions.
Heavy and Industrial Equipment Maintenance stands out as the clear winner financially, with graduates earning over $41,000 annually in a region where technical skills command premium wages. Vehicle Maintenance and Repair programs also provide decent returns at nearly $30,000, reflecting strong demand for skilled technicians in Arkansas. However, Computer Software and Media Applications graduates earn only $24,035, making this program a weaker investment despite the tech industry's general reputation.
Your biggest financial risk here is the 61% graduation rate, meaning nearly 4 out of 10 students don't finish their programs. This school works best for you if you're committed to completing a technical program and entering the workforce quickly rather than transferring to a four-year institution.
With only 40% of students receiving financial aid, many families pay the full net price out of pocket. This actually benefits you if your family income disqualifies you from aid at other schools, since the base price remains affordable. The school serves students best who want immediate entry into skilled trades, live in rural Arkansas where these technical jobs are plentiful, and prefer avoiding student loan debt entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southern Arkansas University Tech worth the cost?
With a net price of $5,895 per year and median debt of only $6,000, Southern Arkansas University Tech offers solid value for students who complete their programs. The low cost keeps financial risk minimal, though earnings vary significantly by program choice.
What are the best paying programs at Southern Arkansas University Tech?
Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies leads with $41,007 median earnings, making it the clear winner for ROI. Vehicle Maintenance programs earn $29,685, while computer and interdisciplinary programs lag behind at $24,000-28,000.
How much debt do Southern Arkansas University Tech graduates have?
Graduates carry a median debt of $6,000, which is exceptionally low compared to most colleges. This manageable debt load reduces financial stress and makes the degree worthwhile even for lower-paying career paths.
What is the graduation rate at Southern Arkansas University Tech?
Southern Arkansas University Tech has a 61% graduation rate. While not outstanding, the low cost means even students who don't graduate haven't risked substantial debt.