Rankings / By State

Best Business Colleges in Arkansas

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 21 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$46,239

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

48%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$15,883

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a business degree in Arkansas, prospective students have a range of options to weigh. These schools share a commitment to developing business leaders and preparing graduates for the workforce, but they vary significantly in outcomes that matter most. For example, graduates from the University of Arkansas report average earnings of $58,191, making it one of the top choices for future business professionals.

The schools on this list were evaluated based on critical factors such as earnings, graduation rates, student debt, and overall program focus. These metrics give a clearer picture of which institutions can help students succeed financially and academically. The average earnings across these business programs stand at $46,239, while the average graduation rate is 48%. This information is vital for families looking to invest in education that pays off.

To illustrate the differences, consider the University of Arkansas and the University of the Ozarks. While the former boasts a substantial earning potential of $58,191, the latter has lower earnings at $44,384 and a graduation rate of only 52%. This contrast highlights the importance of not just looking at costs but also at the potential return on investment when selecting a business program.

Key Findings

University of Arkansas graduates earn an average of $58,191, significantly higher than the average of $46,239 across all schools.

Graduation rates vary widely, with University of Arkansas at 70%, while University of Arkansas Grantham is only 32%.

With a net price of $8,370, University of Arkansas Grantham offers lower upfront costs but has a lower graduation rate.

John Brown University and Ouachita Baptist University have similar earnings, $53,907 and $51,673 respectively, but also differ in net price, impacting long-term debt.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 21

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,239

Avg. graduation rate 48%

Avg. net price $15,883

Avg. median debt $20,584

How We Ranked

Business programs in Arkansas ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR

Graduation70%

Earnings$58,191

Net Price$18,209

View full profile →

University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, AR

Graduation52%

Earnings$44,384

Net Price$17,360

View full profile →

John Brown University

Siloam Springs, AR

Graduation69%

Earnings$53,907

Net Price$20,397

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR · 28,677 students · Public

With nearly 28,700 students, the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville is a vibrant hub of opportunity. The campus is known for its strong sense of community and diverse academic programs, making it a solid choice for students looking for both social and academic engagement. The student body is diverse, with 18% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting the university's commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

74% accepted 70% graduate $58,191 earnings

University's full profile

University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, AR · 767 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Clarksville, the University of the Ozarks serves a modest student population of 767. The school offers a tight-knit community where students can form lasting relationships with peers and professors. While the graduation rate is lower at 52%, the high percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 40% indicates a commitment to helping students from diverse backgrounds succeed.

60% accepted 52% graduate $44,384 earnings

University's full profile

John Brown University

Siloam Springs, AR · 1,471 students · Private nonprofit

John Brown University, a private nonprofit located in Siloam Springs, is a smaller school with a close-knit atmosphere. With around 1,471 students, the university emphasizes a holistic education grounded in Christian values, which can be appealing for those seeking a supportive community. A 76% acceptance rate suggests that the university welcomes a diverse range of students, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

76% accepted 69% graduate $53,907 earnings

University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR · 7,762 students · Public

The University of Central Arkansas, with a student body of 7,762, boasts a welcoming campus atmosphere and strong academic programs. With a graduation rate of 53%, this public university positions itself as a solid choice for students looking to achieve their educational goals in a supportive environment that values inclusivity and diversity.

89% accepted 53% graduate $45,938 earnings

University's full profile

Ouachita Baptist University

Arkadelphia, AR · 1,602 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Arkadelphia, Ouachita Baptist University has around 1,602 students, creating an intimate setting for academic and personal development. The university emphasizes a liberal arts education combined with a Christian perspective, which resonates with many students. A graduation rate of 66% indicates a solid commitment to student success, while 23% of students benefit from Pell Grants, highlighting its dedication to inclusivity.

68% accepted 66% graduate $51,673 earnings

Ouachita's full profile

Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, AR · 478 students · Private nonprofit

In the small town of Walnut Ridge, Williams Baptist University presents an intimate setting for just under 500 students. The campus fosters a close-knit community where students often build lasting relationships and receive personalized attention from faculty. With an acceptance rate of 83%, this private nonprofit institution is accessible to many, making it a viable option for students looking for a supportive educational experience.

83% accepted 31% graduate $38,484 earnings

Williams's full profile

Philander Smith University

Little Rock, AR · 751 students · Private nonprofit

Philander Smith University, located in Little Rock, AR, serves a smaller student population of 751, creating a unique and personal atmosphere for learning. The university emphasizes community engagement and social justice, attracting students who are passionate about making a difference. However, its graduation rate of 31% highlights that some students may face challenges in completing their degrees, which is an important consideration for prospective students.

31% graduate $38,427 earnings

Philander's full profile

Harding University

Searcy, AR · 3,382 students · Private nonprofit

Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, is a private nonprofit institution that emphasizes a Christian educational experience. With a graduation rate of 70%, this university ranks highly in its commitment to ensuring students complete their education and embark on successful careers. The student body of 3,382 fosters a sense of belonging, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a close-knit community alongside their studies.

71% accepted 70% graduate $52,876 earnings

Harding's full profile

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR · 5,388 students · Public

Nestled in Russellville, Arkansas, Arkansas Tech University serves over 5,300 students in a vibrant public university setting. With a graduation rate of 49%, it’s a place where students can find support and resources to help them succeed. The university encourages a diverse student body, evident in its high acceptance rate of 96%, making it accessible to many aspiring students.

96% accepted 49% graduate $41,766 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

#10

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR · 9,110 students · Public

Arkansas State University, located in Jonesboro, is known for its robust academic programs and a welcoming campus atmosphere for over 9,100 students. The school boasts a graduation rate of 55%, showcasing its commitment to helping students finish their degrees. This public university is particularly appealing for those looking for a larger community while still receiving personalized attention from faculty and staff.

82% accepted 55% graduate $42,617 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

#11

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, AR · 4,949 students · Public

With a student body of nearly 5,000, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a vibrant hub for those seeking a supportive academic environment. The median earnings for graduates ten years post-enrollment sit at $45,265, indicating solid career potential for students who engage with the resources available to them. The university's 59% acceptance rate suggests a welcoming atmosphere for a diverse range of applicants looking to further their education in a dynamic city.

59% accepted 42% graduate $45,265 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Hendrix College

Conway, AR · 1,100 students · Private nonprofit

Hendrix College in Conway attracts around 1,100 students with its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus life. The college has a notable graduation rate of 71%, indicating that students find the support they need to thrive and complete their degrees successfully.

56% accepted 71% graduate $60,376 earnings

Hendrix's full profile

#13

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR · 1,807 students · Public

With 1,807 students, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is a vibrant community that focuses on student success. A significant 70% of its students receive Pell Grants, indicating a strong commitment to supporting those from low-income backgrounds. This school could be a great fit for students looking for a nurturing environment where they can thrive academically and socially.

41% accepted 40% graduate $35,550 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Central Baptist College

Conway, AR · 484 students · Private nonprofit

Central Baptist College, located in Conway, AR, serves a smaller student population of 484, fostering a close-knit community. This private nonprofit institution has a 35% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to helping students succeed academically while maintaining a supportive campus atmosphere.

63% accepted 35% graduate $46,789 earnings

Central's full profile

#15

Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, AR · 1,456 students · Public

Located in Arkadelphia, Henderson State University has a tight-knit community of about 1,500 students. With a graduation rate of 38%, the school works diligently to help its students reach their academic goals, fostering an environment where support and connection can thrive.

38% graduate $43,459 earnings

Henderson's full profile

#16

NorthWest Arkansas Community College

Bentonville, AR · 4,953 students · Public

With nearly 5,000 students, NorthWest Arkansas Community College serves as a vital stepping stone for many in the Bentonville area. The school’s focus on accessibility is evident in its 23% of students receiving Pell Grants, which helps those from lower-income backgrounds pursue higher education.

29% graduate $43,505 earnings

NorthWest's full profile

#17

University of Arkansas Grantham

LIttle Rock, AR · 2,833 students · Public

With 72% of its students receiving Pell Grants, the University of Arkansas Grantham caters strongly to those who may need financial assistance. This public university offers a supportive environment for its 2,833 students, emphasizing accessibility and community engagement through various programs and services.

32% graduate $63,496 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Lyon College

Batesville, AR · 648 students · Private nonprofit

Lyon College, located in Batesville, Arkansas, is a tight-knit community with a focus on liberal arts education. With a student population of 648, each student can expect a personalized experience that fosters academic growth and engagement. The college's graduation rate stands at 51%, suggesting that a significant number of students are finding their paths and completing their degrees.

63% accepted 51% graduate $44,232 earnings

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Fort Smith, AR · 4,091 students · Public

Home to 4,091 students, the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith offers a vibrant educational experience within a public university setting. Despite a graduation rate of 37%, the school emphasizes student engagement and support, creating opportunities for personal and academic growth in a collaborative environment.

80% accepted 37% graduate $41,102 earnings

University's full profile

#20

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Magnolia, AR · 2,708 students · Public

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus, with its enrollment of around 2,700 students, offers a blend of community and academic rigor in Magnolia, AR. The university's commitment to student success is evident in its graduation rate of 48%. Here, students can expect a collaborative environment that encourages personal and academic growth, making it a great choice for those who engage with the campus community.

75% accepted 48% graduate $42,386 earnings

Southern's full profile

#21

Arkansas State University-Beebe

Beebe, AR · 1,986 students · Public

Arkansas State University-Beebe, with nearly 2,000 students, is known for its supportive environment and commitment to student success. With a graduation rate of 40%, the college is focused on helping students navigate their educational journeys and prepare for professional opportunities.

40% graduate $36,603 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

When closely examining the data, the stark differences between schools like the University of Arkansas and the University of Arkansas Grantham become evident. The former not only offers higher average earnings of $58,191 but also boasts a graduation rate of 70%. In contrast, the University of Arkansas Grantham presents a lower earning potential of $63,496 but has a concerning graduation rate of just 32%. This disparity highlights that some institutions may excel in immediate financial outcomes while struggling to support students through to graduation.

As you sift through these options, think about what matters most for your situation. Are you prioritizing a program with high earnings potential, or is a lower net price more important? Consider how each school's graduation rate might reflect the support you'll receive. It’s essential to align the metrics with your personal goals, whether that means opting for a more academically rigorous program or one that offers financial flexibility.

Ultimately, the journey from college to a stable career can be influenced greatly by these choices. A degree in business can set the stage for financial stability, but it’s essential to choose a school that aligns with your aspirations and circumstances. One family may thrive at the University of Arkansas, while another finds their path at a smaller institution like Ouachita Baptist University, based on their specific values and needs.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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