Rankings / By State

Best Education Colleges in Arkansas

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 17 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$44,611

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

49%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,269

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right education college is a significant decision for many students and their families. In Arkansas, 17 colleges stand out for their education programs, each with unique offerings and outcomes that can shape a student's career. With average earnings of $44,611 for graduates in this field, it’s clear that the right choice can set the stage for future success.

The strongest schools on this list are distinguished by critical outcomes: graduation rates, average earnings, and manageable debt levels. A higher graduation rate is often correlated with better job prospects and, ultimately, higher earnings. For instance, the top school, the University of Arkansas, boasts a 70% graduation rate and average earnings of $58,191, while one of the lower-ranked options, Williams Baptist University, has only a 31% graduation rate and significantly lower earnings at $38,484.

When comparing specific schools, the University of Arkansas and John Brown University present a fascinating contrast. While both have impressive graduation rates of 70% and 69% respectively, the earnings gap is notable: the University of Arkansas graduates earn about $4,284 more annually than those from John Brown University. This difference in earnings can impact long-term financial stability and quality of life, making it essential for students to weigh these factors carefully as they consider their options.

Key Findings

The University of Arkansas graduates earn an average of $58,191 annually.

John Brown University has a graduation rate of 69%, just behind the top school.

Williams Baptist University has a graduation rate of only 31%.

Graduates from the top five education colleges in Arkansas have an average debt of $21,140.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 17

Avg. earnings at 10yr $44,611

Avg. graduation rate 49%

Avg. net price $16,269

Avg. median debt $20,713

How We Ranked

Education 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

Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, AR

Graduation31%

Earnings$38,484

Net Price$15,745

View full profile →

Harding University

Searcy, AR

Graduation70%

Earnings$52,876

Net Price$22,130

View full profile →

Ouachita Baptist University

Arkadelphia, AR

Graduation66%

Earnings$51,673

Net Price$22,409

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, AR · 478 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of 478, Williams Baptist University cultivates an intimate learning environment. This setting may appeal to students looking for personalized attention and a close-knit community where they can build strong relationships with faculty and peers.

83% accepted 31% graduate $38,484 earnings

Williams's full profile

Harding University

Searcy, AR · 3,382 students · Private nonprofit

Harding University in Searcy has a student population of around 3,382 and boasts a graduation rate of 70%. Graduates see median earnings of $52,876 ten years after leaving, making it a solid choice for students focused on future financial stability and opportunities in their chosen fields.

71% accepted 70% graduate $52,876 earnings

Harding's full profile

Ouachita Baptist University

Arkadelphia, AR · 1,602 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Arkadelphia, Ouachita Baptist University hosts about 1,602 students, fostering a close community environment. With a graduation rate of 66%, the school sets its students up for a median earning of $51,673 a decade after graduation, which underscores the value of its degree in the workforce.

68% accepted 66% graduate $51,673 earnings

Ouachita's full profile

John Brown University

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

John Brown University, a private nonprofit in Siloam Springs, caters to a tight-knit student body of about 1,471. The school has a graduation rate of 69%, and alumni report median earnings of $53,907 ten years post-graduation, a solid reflection of the value of a degree from this institution in the local job market.

76% accepted 69% graduate $53,907 earnings

University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, AR · 767 students · Private nonprofit

With a close-knit community of just 767 students, the University of the Ozarks fosters an environment where personalized attention is the norm. This private nonprofit institution in Clarksville, Arkansas, has a unique mission to cultivate a strong sense of service and leadership among its students, aiming to develop not only well-rounded professionals but also engaged citizens who contribute positively to society.

60% accepted 52% graduate $44,384 earnings

University's full profile

University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR · 7,762 students · Public

The University of Central Arkansas, located in Conway, Arkansas, is home to over 7,700 students who enjoy a vibrant campus life amidst a supportive academic environment. Known for its commitment to student success, the school emphasizes both educational quality and community engagement, helping students not just to learn but to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

89% accepted 53% graduate $45,938 earnings

University's full profile

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR · 9,110 students · Public

Arkansas State University in Jonesboro supports a student population of over 9,000, creating a dynamic atmosphere filled with opportunities for engagement and growth. This larger public university may be ideal for students looking for a thriving campus life and a variety of degree programs.

82% accepted 55% graduate $42,617 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR · 28,677 students · Public

With nearly 29,000 students, the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville is an energetic campus with a vibrant community. The school has a graduation rate of 70%, and graduates can expect median earnings of around $58,191 ten years after finishing their degree. This level of income reflects a strong return on investment, especially in a state where the cost of living is lower than average.

74% accepted 70% graduate $58,191 earnings

University's full profile

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR · 5,388 students · Public

Arkansas Tech University, situated in Russellville, Arkansas, welcomes around 5,400 students into its energetic academic environment. The university is dedicated to providing a well-rounded experience that combines rigorous academics with various extracurricular opportunities, encouraging students to get involved and develop both personally and professionally.

96% accepted 49% graduate $41,766 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

#10

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR · 1,807 students · Public

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff presents an engaging educational experience for students looking to make a difference in their communities. With a graduation rate of 40%, this public university emphasizes both academic achievement and personal growth, particularly for students dedicated to social justice and leadership roles in their fields.

41% accepted 40% graduate $35,550 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, AR · 1,456 students · Public

Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is known for its commitment to student success, as evidenced by its diverse program offerings and active campus community. Although the graduation rate is 38%, the university fosters resilience and support among its students, preparing them for various career paths with a median earning of $43,459 after ten years.

38% graduate $43,459 earnings

Henderson's full profile

#12

Philander Smith University

Little Rock, AR · 751 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of 751, Philander Smith University in Little Rock is a place where students often find a strong sense of community. The university's commitment to serving a diverse population is reflected in its 68% Pell Grant recipient rate, indicating that many students come from low-income backgrounds. This environment nurtures cross-class friendships and a supportive atmosphere that can help students thrive academically and socially.

31% graduate $38,427 earnings

Philander's full profile

#13

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Magnolia, AR · 2,708 students · Public

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus, with its enrollment of 2,708 students, offers a vibrant campus life in Magnolia. This university is a solid choice for students seeking a public university experience with a diverse range of programs and a supportive atmosphere.

75% accepted 48% graduate $42,386 earnings

Southern's full profile

#14

Central Baptist College

Conway, AR · 484 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $46,789 a decade after graduation, Central Baptist College in Conway, Arkansas, has a compelling story to tell. Despite a graduation rate of 35%, many students find a supportive environment here, particularly those who thrive in a close-knit community with a strong focus on faith and personal growth.

63% accepted 35% graduate $46,789 earnings

Central's full profile

#15

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Fort Smith, AR · 4,091 students · Public

The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is home to over 4,000 students and provides a diverse array of academic options in a bustling city environment. Those who appreciate a larger campus with various extracurricular activities might find this school particularly appealing.

80% accepted 37% graduate $41,102 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Lyon College

Batesville, AR · 648 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Batesville, Arkansas, Lyon College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a vibrant campus life, appealing particularly to students who value a liberal arts education. With a graduation rate of 51%, the school supports students in their pursuit of knowledge and personal development, fostering an environment where they can thrive both academically and socially.

63% accepted 51% graduate $44,232 earnings

Arkansas State University-Beebe

Beebe, AR · 1,986 students · Public

At Arkansas State University-Beebe, a smaller public institution with around 1,986 students, the focus is on providing a community-oriented educational experience. Located in Beebe, Arkansas, this university caters to those seeking a more intimate learning environment where faculty and staff can closely support each student's individual journey.

40% graduate $36,603 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

While many students may overlook the significance of graduation rates, they are crucial indicators of a school's effectiveness. For example, the University of Arkansas not only leads in earnings but also has a solid graduation rate of 70%. In contrast, Williams Baptist University, with a graduation rate of just 31%, reflects a different reality for its graduates, who face steeper financial challenges given their lower earnings.

After reviewing the data, consider your own priorities. Think about what matters most for you or your student: Is it location, financial aid opportunities, or the specific focus of a program? Weigh these factors against the numbers presented here. Finding the right education college is about aligning your personal goals with the data available.

This data highlights the pathway to stability that education can provide, but it also underscores the importance of making informed decisions. Families must recognize that selecting a college is a significant step towards a stable future. One family's choice can lead to a promising career for a student, so it's essential to consider all factors carefully.

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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