University of Arkansas vs University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
A side-by-side look at cost, graduate earnings, debt and return on investment. The better figure in each row is highlighted.
| University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR | University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Fort Smith, AR | |
|---|---|---|
| ROI verdict | Strong return | Poor return |
| 10-year ROI | +86% | -152% |
| 10-year net gain | $69,669 | $-74,446 |
| Median earnings (5 yr) | $60,034 | $42,450 |
| Median earnings (1 yr) | $46,483 | $39,057 |
| Average net price | $18,209 | $10,574 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $18,250 |
| Break-even | 5.4 yrs | — |
| Graduation rate | 71% | 38% |
| Admission rate | 74% | 81% |
University of Arkansas
Strong return
+$69,669 over 10 years
Graduate earnings clearly outpace the cost and debt — this degree pays back quickly.
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Poor return
$-74,446 over 10 years
On these figures the cost and debt outweigh the earnings premium.
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard. ROI is computed by Degree Return — see how. Read the methodology. Data as of 2024.