At $17,525/yr net price, University of Arkansas graduates earn $58,191/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $24,191/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,525 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $70,100 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $58,191/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$24,191/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 70.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,017/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,115/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,379/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,755/yr |
| $110,001+ | $20,991/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $106,421 | $40,962 |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $78,343 | $20,500 |
| Industrial Engineering. | Bachelor | $71,854 | $25,405 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $71,015 | $25,957 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $70,680 | |
| Engineering-Related Fields. | Master | $69,524 | $23,250 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $69,079 | $25,997 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $68,778 | $15,625 |
| Agricultural Business and Management. | Master | $65,053 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $62,463 |
The Risk Factor
70.0% of students at University of Arkansas graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 30% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
University of Arkansas delivers strong financial returns for students who choose the right programs. Your net price of $17,525 per year positions this school as an affordable option that typically pays off within a reasonable timeframe.
Business Administration stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $106,421 annually despite carrying higher debt loads of $40,962. Engineering programs offer solid middle-ground returns, with Chemical Engineering graduates earning $78,343 while keeping debt manageable at $20,500. Computer and Industrial Engineering also deliver strong outcomes in the $71,000 range.
The school's 70% graduation rate creates meaningful risk for your investment. Nearly one in three students leave without a degree, making program selection and academic preparation critical factors in your financial success. You need realistic assessment of your academic readiness before enrolling.
Arkansas works best financially if you target high-earning majors and can complete your degree efficiently. The low percentage of students receiving aid (17.3%) suggests limited need-based assistance, but in-state students benefit from reasonable baseline costs. Out-of-state students should carefully evaluate whether the premium justifies the outcomes compared to their home state options.
You should look elsewhere if you're considering lower-earning liberal arts programs or lack confidence in your ability to complete a four-year program. The regional job market limits opportunities for many majors outside engineering and business, making program choice particularly important at this institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Arkansas worth the cost compared to other state schools?
University of Arkansas offers solid value with a net price of $17,525 and graduates earning $58,191 after 10 years. The relatively low debt load of $21,500 makes it more affordable than many state universities, though earnings lag behind top-tier programs at other schools.
What University of Arkansas majors have the best return on investment?
Business administration leads with graduates earning $106,421 annually, while engineering programs like chemical and industrial engineering produce strong returns around $70,000-78,000. Liberal arts and education majors typically see much lower earnings that may not justify the cost.
How much student debt do University of Arkansas graduates typically have?
The median debt is $21,500, which is manageable compared to national averages. However, 30% of students don't graduate within six years, meaning some accumulate debt without earning a degree.
Does University of Arkansas provide good financial aid to make it affordable?
With a net price of $17,525 after aid, University of Arkansas is reasonably affordable for in-state students. Out-of-state students pay significantly more and should carefully consider whether the earnings potential justifies the higher cost.