At $10,097/yr net price, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith graduates earn $41,102/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,102/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,097 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,388 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,102/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,102/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 37.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,450/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,256/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,856/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $13,295/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,335/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. | Bachelor | $61,681 | $20,413 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $61,218 | $21,490 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $55,964 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $55,964 | $24,125 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $53,810 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $51,392 | |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $37,208 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $35,416 | $19,652 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $35,274 | $16,328 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Associate | $33,993 |
The Risk Factor
37.0% of students at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith 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
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers solid financial value despite concerning graduation rates. Your net cost of around $10,000 annually positions this school as an affordable option in the Arkansas job market, but only 37% of students finish their degrees.
Nursing and computer science graduates earn strong returns, with nursing majors averaging $61,681 annually against modest debt loads around $20,000. Computer science follows closely at $61,218, making these programs clear financial winners. Health-related fields like dental support services also perform well at $55,964, though debt levels vary significantly by program.
The low graduation rate creates your biggest financial risk. With nearly two-thirds of students leaving without degrees, you face substantial odds of accumulating debt without the credentials to justify it. The 72% retention rate suggests many students struggle in their first year.
You should consider UAFS if you plan to study nursing, computer science, or allied health fields and can commit to completing your degree. The school works particularly well for Arkansas residents seeking affordable professional training in growing fields. The regional job market supports healthcare and technology graduates reasonably well.
Avoid UAFS if you're uncertain about your major or lack strong academic preparation. The completion statistics suggest the school may not provide adequate support for struggling students. Liberal arts and general studies programs show weaker earning potential relative to the health and technology tracks.
Financial aid reaches fewer than 40% of students, so merit opportunities appear limited. Your best strategy involves choosing a high-earning program and utilizing all available state aid for Arkansas residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Arkansas-Fort Smith worth the cost?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers decent value with a low net price of $10,097 and manageable debt averaging $18,250. However, the 37% graduation rate means many students don't complete their degrees, which significantly reduces the return on investment.
What are the highest paying programs at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?
Nursing programs at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith lead earnings at $61,681 annually, followed by computer science at $61,218. These healthcare and tech programs offer strong job prospects that justify the investment.
How much debt do University of Arkansas-Fort Smith graduates typically have?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith graduates carry a median debt of $18,250, which is relatively low compared to national averages. The affordable tuition helps keep borrowing manageable for most students.
What salary can I expect after graduating from University of Arkansas-Fort Smith?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith graduates earn a median of $41,102 ten years after graduation. This places the school below national averages, though nursing and computer science graduates earn significantly more.