15 BEST VALUE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN ARKANSAS

University of Arkansas is the flagship campus of the University of Arkansas System (not to be confused with the Arkansas State University System, of course), making it the largest school in the state by enrollment, endowment, square-footage, and ROI ($309K from PayScale.com!). But in what category is it not the largest? Carbon footprint! In just the last decade, U of A has revealed itself as a leader in sustainability, pledging to reach carbon neutrality by 2040. With 22,000 students, 4,000 staff members, and dozens of academic, residential, and administrative buildings, that's no small feat. But it's a testament to the tenacity and moral fiber of this institution, as well a message to all the top universities in Arkansas to keep up with the big dogs.
Net Price: $14,466
Score: 142.69

Founded in 1873 as an agricultural, mechanical and "normal" (teaching) college, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has been transforming Arkansonians into leaders of and contributors to their communities for nearly and hundred and fifty years. This historically black college has since expanded its curriculum to include business management, natural sciences, and liberal arts programs, all while maintaining an experiential approach to learning and a comfortable 15:1 student to faculty ratio. As a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, eligible students can apply to finance their education at this affordable Arkansas college without neglecting it - and at this price, it's pretty clear why Pine Bluff has become so popular (the acceptance rate is only 39%!).
Net Price: $7,452/yr
Score: 123.26

As the second-largest city in Arkansas, Fort Smith features a dazzling array of cultural offerings from dance, theater, and music venues to shopping centers, museums, and historical destinations. But that's not the only reason students choose to attend the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, an expansive campus spotted with art galleries, state-of-the-art research facilities, and even an award-winning, high-tech arboretum. This Arkansas college draws students from throughout the South with its world-class amenities, competitive academic departments, and incredibly affordable "in-state" tuition that extends to residents of Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Net Price: $7,679/yr
Score: 113.91

As the flagship campus of the Arkansas State University System, it's certainly not difficult to imagine the quintessential college experience that Arkansas State has to offer. Perhaps it goes without saying that 15% of A-State students participate in Greek Life, or that the Red Wolves, their NCAA Div I football team, are three-time consecutive Sun Belt Champions. It's also probably not surprising that this affordable Arkansas university houses 14,000 students and offers an impressive list of 100+ degree programs. But A-State has also developed several unique programs that go above and beyond the traditional collegiate experience. For example, their prestigious Honors College offers smaller class sizes, advanced coursework, and $2,000 grant offerings for research funding and independent projects.
Net Price: $11,499/yr
Score: 112.77

At Central Baptist College, students receive a holistic education that aims for comprehensive development of the mind, the spirit, and the wallet. This cheap Arkansas college, which is affiliated with the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas, accomplishes the first two goals through a comprehensive range of bachelors degrees; regular mandatory chapel services; and hands-on student events. In the latter case, this means that CBC actively invests in students so that their future wallets are heavy and happy. Regardless of their field of study, CBC students can count on a job after graduation thanks to complimentary career support like mock interviews, career readiness coaching, career development seminars, resume assistance, and more.
Net Price: $12,043/yr
Score: 107.59

With top national rankings for both its affordability and quality, no one can doubt Southern Arkansas University's reputation as a great deal in higher education. And SAU is "great" in more ways than one; just over 3,000 students, an impressive 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and unique interdisciplinary offerings like Game and Animation Design make SAU a standout among the best Arkansas colleges at any price. In total, this university in Arkansas features 70 undergraduate programs, including pre-professional programs in medicine, nursing, and business, 2+2 degree completion programs for transfer students, and the only engineering program in the southern half of the state!
Net Price: $10,087/yr
Score: 105.84

University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a self-described "metropolitan research university." In fact, it's Arkansas' only metropolitan research university! This fact, along with its location in the capital city of Arkansas, makes Little Rock one of the best universities in Arkansas and an indispensable resource for students looking for real-world experience; valuable connections to the government, business, medicine, and information technology industries; artistic venues; and cultural events. Add to this the many internships and research opportunities available at state-of-the-art facilities like the Center for Integrative Nanotechnology Sciences, and it's easy to see how UA Little Rock keeps students in a constant state of growth and intellectual challenge.
Net Price: $12,780/yr
Score: 104.31

Lyon is another prestigious liberal arts institution that ranks among the top Arkansas colleges. It is the oldest independent college in the state and takes great pride in preserving and celebrating its rich collegiate heritage. With over 40 majors and minors, a 90% acceptance rate to medical and law school, and a top-30 ranking on Washington Monthly's list of Best Liberal Arts Colleges, you can bet the education here is top-notch. And between Lyon's tight-knit Greek system and its Scottish Heritage Program (featuring scholarships, festivals, a pipe band, and more), this college in Arkansas makes life on its small campus (a mere 700 students attend) educational and rewarding - inside and outside of the classroom.
Net Price: $14,510/yr
Score: 104.18

The only Arkansas school with membership in the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges, Henderson State University is a unique resource for students who are looking for a comprehensive education in a small college setting. In addition to the 40 bachelors degree offerings spanning the arts, sciences, and business, Henderson also mandates a core curriculum that features a diverse range of classic courses outside the purview of students' specific specialization. Outside of the classroom, Henderson is best known for the Showband of Arkansas, its 150+ piece student marching band and one of the top-ranked college music ensembles in the country.
Net Price: $10,249/yr
Score: 102.73

Offering the competitive tuition rate typically only found at public universities, Arkansas Tech University is a cheap Arkansas college with a focus on applied sciences. Local students looking for a career in agriculture, computer science and IT, electrical or mechanical engineering, or another similar technical field would do well to consider ATU. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ATU is a great resource for students interested in other learning opportunities as well. Featuring strong international and accelerated degree programs, students can start their careers in business, fine arts, natural and health sciences, education, and more at ATU.
Net Price: $9,630/yr
Score: 97.03