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NCAA Division I Colleges in Arkansas

5 schools in Arkansas. See our methodology.

The University of Arkansas at Fayetteville stands apart from its state counterparts, achieving a 70% graduation rate while other Arkansas Division I schools range from 39.7% to 55.1%. This flagship campus also delivers the highest earnings potential at $58,191 annually, nearly $16,000 more than the next closest school. Arkansas students benefit from relatively affordable education costs, with net prices spanning $11,679 to $17,525 across five institutions. The state's economy, anchored by Walmart headquarters in Bentonville and major employers like Tyson Foods, creates substantial opportunities for graduates in retail management, logistics, and agriculture. University of Central Arkansas offers the most accessible admission path with a 91.2% acceptance rate, while the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff provides the lowest net cost at $11,679. These schools collectively serve over 49,000 students across varied Arkansas communities from Fayetteville to Pine Bluff, preparing graduates for careers in the state's growing sectors of transportation, food production, and retail operations.
5
Schools
$15,040
Avg. Net Price
$45,512
Avg. Earnings
51.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division I Colleges in Arkansas

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 27,312 $17,525 70.0% 78.9%
2 7,994 $13,085 55.1% 69.5%
3 4,740 $16,136 41.4% 61.5%
4 7,426 $16,775 53.3% 91.2%
5 1,899 $11,679 39.7% 69.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville worth its higher cost?

The Fayetteville campus justifies its $17,525 net price through superior outcomes. Graduates earn $58,191 annually and achieve a 70% graduation rate, significantly outperforming other state schools. With 27,312 students, it offers the largest alumni network and strongest research opportunities in Arkansas.

How affordable are Arkansas Division I colleges compared nationally?

Arkansas schools remain highly affordable with net prices from $11,679 to $17,525. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers strong value at $11,679, while even the most expensive option costs less than many out-of-state alternatives nationwide.

Is it easier to get into some Arkansas schools than others?

Acceptance rates vary significantly across Arkansas institutions. University of Central Arkansas admits 91.2% of applicants, making it highly accessible. In contrast, University of Arkansas at Little Rock accepts just 61.5%, reflecting more selective admission standards.

Does location within Arkansas affect career opportunities after graduation?

Location matters for networking and internships. Fayetteville sits near Walmart's Bentonville headquarters, while Little Rock offers state government connections. Conway and Jonesboro provide regional business ties, though graduates earning $35,550 to $58,191 find opportunities statewide.

Where do most Arkansas Division I students choose to enroll?

The University of Arkansas at Fayetteville attracts the most students with 27,312 enrolled, followed by Arkansas State's 7,994. Smaller campuses like Pine Bluff serve 1,899 students, creating more intimate learning environments with lower student-to-faculty ratios.

Related

NCAA Division I Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Arkansas Cheapest Programs in Arkansas

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.