Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Arkansas

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 20 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$46,391

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

49%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,447

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a master's program in Arkansas, prospective students will find a variety of options, each with its own strengths. These programs are designed not only to deepen knowledge in specific fields but also to enhance career prospects. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these programs stand at $46,391, reflecting the potential return on investment for students.

What truly distinguishes the top schools in this list is their graduate outcomes. Key metrics such as earnings, graduation rates, net price, and debt play a vital role in assessing the value of a program. In this ranking, you’ll see schools that not only help students graduate but also set them up for financial success after they leave. The data below illustrates how these factors interact, giving a clearer picture of what each program offers.

Take the University of Arkansas and John Brown University, for example. The University of Arkansas graduates earn an impressive $58,191 on average, yet have a net price of $18,209. In contrast, John Brown University has a lower earning potential of $53,907, with a higher net price of $20,397. This kind of trade-off is essential as students weigh their options, highlighting the importance of both financial and educational outcomes.

Key Findings

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

John Brown University has a graduation rate of 69%, closely trailing the top performer.

Arkansas Tech University has the lowest graduation rate at 49%.

The average debt for graduates across these programs is $21,000.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 20

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,391

Avg. graduation rate 49%

Avg. net price $16,447

Avg. median debt $21,732

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Arkansas ranked by graduate outcomes

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

John Brown University

Siloam Springs, AR

Graduation69%

Earnings$53,907

Net Price$20,397

View full profile →

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR

Graduation55%

Earnings$42,617

Net Price$12,366

View full profile →

Hendrix College

Conway, AR

Graduation71%

Earnings$60,376

Net Price$24,149

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

John Brown University

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

Located in Siloam Springs, John Brown University offers a close-knit campus with a focus on faith and learning. This private nonprofit institution has a graduation rate of 69% and graduates earn a median income of $53,907 ten years after starting their careers, showing that students find meaningful work in their fields.

76% accepted 69% graduate $53,907 earnings

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR · 9,110 students · Public

Arkansas State University, situated in Jonesboro, serves over 9,000 students in a supportive public university setting. With a graduation rate of 55%, it may be a better fit for students who appreciate a more personalized approach, and the median earnings of $42,617 after a decade reflect the practical career paths many graduates pursue.

82% accepted 55% graduate $42,617 earnings

Arkansas's full profile

Hendrix College

Conway, AR · 1,100 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings of $60,376 a decade after graduation, Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas presents a compelling case for students seeking not just an education, but a future with solid financial potential. The college’s intimate size, with around 1,100 students, fosters a close-knit community that many find appealing, making it easier to engage with faculty and peers alike. The graduation rate of 71% indicates that students here are generally supported on their academic journeys, which is crucial for long-term success.

56% accepted 71% graduate $60,376 earnings

Hendrix's full profile

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR · 5,388 students · Public

In Russellville, Arkansas Tech University offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for around 5,400 students. While its graduation rate is lower at 49%, students can still find value in the education provided, with average earnings of $41,766 after ten years.

96% accepted 49% graduate $41,766 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 creates a vibrant campus atmosphere. The university's strong graduation rate of 70% and a median earning of $58,191 a decade after graduation indicate that many graduates find solid career paths after leaving.

74% accepted 70% graduate $58,191 earnings

University's full profile

Ouachita Baptist University

Arkadelphia, AR · 1,602 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Arkadelphia, Ouachita Baptist University offers a robust education in a smaller setting, with around 1,602 students. The 66% graduation rate speaks to a supportive environment that encourages student success, while the median earnings of $51,673 after ten years highlight the institution’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for the workforce. This blend of community and academic rigor can make a significant difference for students looking to build connections and pursue their passions.

68% accepted 66% graduate $51,673 earnings

Ouachita's full profile

University of Central Arkansas

Conway, AR · 7,762 students · Public

Located in Conway, the University of Central Arkansas serves a larger student body of 7,762, creating a diverse environment with many opportunities for engagement. The graduation rate is slightly higher at 53%, which suggests that students here can find the support they need to succeed academically.

89% accepted 53% graduate $45,938 earnings

University's full profile

University of the Ozarks

Clarksville, AR · 767 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of just 767, the University of the Ozarks creates an intimate setting that can foster strong connections between students and faculty. The school has a 52% graduation rate, which reflects its commitment to student support despite the challenges some may face in completing their degrees.

60% accepted 52% graduate $44,384 earnings

University's full profile

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, AR · 4,949 students · Public

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock serves a sizable student body of about 4,949, creating an expansive campus experience. Although the graduation rate stands at 42%, the university offers a diverse array of programs and support services to help students succeed. The median earnings of $45,265 a decade after graduation reflect the institution's efforts to prepare students for various career paths in a rapidly changing job market.

59% accepted 42% graduate $45,265 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Harding University

Searcy, AR · 3,382 students · Private nonprofit

Harding University, with its enrollment of 3,382, emphasizes a strong Christian foundation alongside academic rigor. The school boasts a commendable 70% graduation rate, highlighting its effective support systems for students aiming to complete their degrees successfully.

71% accepted 70% graduate $52,876 earnings

Harding's full profile

#11

Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, AR · 478 students · Private nonprofit

Williams Baptist University, a private nonprofit in Walnut Ridge, serves a close-knit community of 478 students who value a Christian-centered education. The university has an acceptance rate of 83% and graduates earn a median of $38,484 after ten years, indicating that degrees from this smaller institution can lead to meaningful job opportunities, though the graduation rate of 31% may raise concerns for some families.

83% accepted 31% graduate $38,484 earnings

Williams's full profile

#12

University of Arkansas at Monticello

Monticello, AR · 1,933 students · Public

At the University of Arkansas at Monticello, students join a community of 1,933 with a focus on personalized education in a public setting. The school's graduation rate sits at 46%, and the median earnings for graduates reach $36,902 after ten years, reflecting a steady return on investment for many who choose this path.

46% graduate $36,902 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR · 1,807 students · Public

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is a vibrant institution with a strong commitment to serving its diverse student body. Home to a 40% graduation rate, the university fosters an environment where students can thrive, particularly those who are Pell Grant recipients, constituting 70% of the population.

41% accepted 40% graduate $35,550 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, AR · 1,456 students · Public

Henderson State University in Arkadelphia is known for its focus on student success and community engagement. The university has a graduation rate of 38%, reflecting its dedication to helping students reach their goals despite challenges.

38% graduate $43,459 earnings

Henderson's full profile

#15

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Fort Smith, AR · 4,091 students · Public

At the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, the welcoming atmosphere and an acceptance rate of 80% make it a practical choice for many students. With about 4,091 enrolled, the university caters to a diverse student body, offering numerous pathways for those eager to earn a degree. While the graduation rate sits at 37%, the school provides essential resources and programs to help students stay on track toward their goals.

80% accepted 37% graduate $41,102 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Philander Smith University

Little Rock, AR · 751 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Little Rock, Philander Smith University emphasizes a holistic approach to education that champions social justice and community impact. With a graduation rate of 31%, it aims to nurture students who are eager to engage and uplift their communities.

31% graduate $38,427 earnings

Philander's full profile

#17

Lyon College

Batesville, AR · 648 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Batesville, Lyon College has a small student population of 648, which creates an atmosphere where personalized education is at the forefront. The 51% graduation rate indicates that while some students may face challenges, the college provides a focused environment that can help many succeed.

63% accepted 51% graduate $44,232 earnings

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Magnolia, AR · 2,708 students · Public

With a vibrant student community of 2,708 and a 75% acceptance rate, Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia is an inviting option for those looking to pursue a public education. Graduates earn a median income of $42,386 within a decade, suggesting that many students find solid career paths after graduation, especially within Arkansas and surrounding regions.

75% accepted 48% graduate $42,386 earnings

Southern's full profile

#19

Central Baptist College

Conway, AR · 484 students · Private nonprofit

Central Baptist College in Conway, a private nonprofit, welcomes 484 students seeking a faith-oriented education. With a graduation rate of 35% and a median earning of $46,789 after a decade, this school shows promise for students looking for a supportive atmosphere that emphasizes personal growth and spiritual development.

63% accepted 35% graduate $46,789 earnings

Central's full profile

#20

University of Arkansas Grantham

LIttle Rock, AR · 2,833 students · Public

At the University of Arkansas Grantham in Little Rock, you’ll find a community that prioritizes accessibility and growth. With 72% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university is committed to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, making higher education attainable for many.

32% graduate $63,496 earnings

University's full profile

A closer look at the data reveals that the University of Arkansas outperforms others by a significant margin when it comes to earnings, with graduates earning $58,191 compared to Arkansas State University's $42,617. This stark difference highlights how program quality can impact financial outcomes, making the choice of school critical for future success.

As you navigate through the list of master’s programs, consider what factors matter most to you. Are you focused on financial outcomes, or is program fit and campus culture more important? Weigh the data against your personal priorities, looking at not just earnings but also the net price and graduation rates to find a program that aligns with your goals.

Ultimately, these decisions matter deeply. A master's degree can pave the way for a stable career, but the right choice depends on understanding the financial implications and outcomes associated with each program. Each family's situation is unique, but by analyzing this data, you can make an informed decision that supports a stable future for you and your loved ones.

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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