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University of Arkansas Community College Rich Mountain
Mena, ARPublic
$2,448
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
79.7
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Walmart's tech arm in Bentonville makes Northwest Arkansas one of the fastest-growing CS job markets in the South
Walmart Global Tech, along with J.B. Hunt and Tyson Foods, creates heavy demand for CS graduates in supply chain tech, e-commerce, and data engineering
Hakia Research 2026
University of Arkansas leads with an 80% grad rate at $7,666/yr and holds both CAE-CDE and CAE-R designations
The Fayetteville flagship is the state's only R1 research institution for CS, with direct hiring pipelines to Walmart and other NWA employers
Arkansas State University reports a 93% CS graduation rate at $7,176/yr in-state
Located in Jonesboro, it offers strong value with the highest grad rate of any bachelor's CS program in the state
Community college tuition starts at $2,376/yr, with 11 associate's programs across the UA and ASU systems
University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville and NorthWest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville offer affordable 2+2 transfer pathways
Arkansas CS graduates earn an $85,730 median salary, lower than the national average but paired with one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S.
The salary-to-cost-of-living ratio in Northwest Arkansas and Little Rock is competitive with many higher-salary metros
Updated June 26, 2026
How we ranked Arkansas Computer Science programs
We rank 34 accredited computer science programs in Arkansas using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology$85,730
Are Computer Science Degree Programs in Arkansas Worth It?
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Arkansas deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $85,730 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $10,059/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Arkansas
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Arkansas by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in Arkansas
1
Programs ranked
$2,448
Avg tuition/yr
55%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arkansas offers 11 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include U of Arkansas Community C..., U of Arkansas-Pulaski Tec..., U of Arkansas Grantham, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Arkansas offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,612/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $47,152 in Arkansas.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Arkansas's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer science schools in Arkansas, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in Arkansas.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Arkansas
9
Programs ranked
$20,996
Avg tuition/yr
56%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arkansas ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 16 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 10 public and 6 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Arkansas, U of Central Arkansas, Arkansas State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Arkansas computer science programs earn a median salary of $72,871, 26% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $4,512 to $36,300 annually, with an average of $14,304/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 85%, with the highest reaching 93%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Arkansas's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Arkansas, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$7,896
Tuition/yr
71%
Grad rate
81.5
Hakia Score
#4
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, ARPrivate nonprofit
$30,374
Tuition/yr
72%
Grad rate
76.5
Hakia Score
#5
Ouachita Baptist University
Arkadelphia, ARPrivate nonprofit
$33,780
Tuition/yr
61%
Grad rate
72.9
Hakia Score
Show all 9 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Lyon College | Batesville, AR | Private nonprofit | $29,900 | 47% | 69.2 |
| #7 | University of Arkansas-Fort Smith | Fort Smith, AR | Public | $4,752 | 38% | 68.2 |
| #8 | University of Arkansas Grantham | LIttle Rock, AR | Public | $7,320 | 43% | 67.7 |
| #9 | Philander Smith University | Little Rock, AR | Private nonprofit | $11,804 | 30% | 56.5 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Arkansas
2
Programs ranked
$7,698
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arkansas offers 6 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Southern Arkansas Univers..., Arkansas State, U of Arkansas at Little Rock, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Arkansas earn a median salary of $85,730, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $6,974/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Arkansas's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$7,896
Tuition/yr
71%
Grad rate
76.9
Hakia Score
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Arkansas
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $10,059/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $25,148/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,515/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $60,356 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $15,088 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Arkansas
State Aid Programs
Arkansas students pursuing Computer Science degrees have access to multiple funding pathways designed to make higher education affordable. The primary state-level opportunity is the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, which awards up to $5,000 per year to academically talented students enrolled in eligible programs at Arkansas institutions. This scholarship recognizes strong academic performance and provides meaningful support across public and private colleges throughout the state. Additionally, all federal financial aid options are available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens access to Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study programs regardless of institution type or program focus.
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions in Arkansas also offer competitive merit and need-based scholarships specifically for Computer Science and technology majors. The University of Arkansas, ranked among the nation's best Computer Science bachelor's programs, and Arkansas State University both maintain dedicated scholarship funds for STEM disciplines. Students should contact the financial aid office at their chosen institution to explore departmental scholarships, employer partnerships, and assistantship opportunities. For comprehensive information on federal aid eligibility and application processes, the Federal Student Aid website provides detailed guidance. The Arkansas Division of Higher Education also maintains a resource hub for state-specific funding opportunities and financial planning tools for prospective students.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Arkansas
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Arkansas. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Arkansas metro areas
Bentonville$94K
Little Rock$90K
Fayetteville$86K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Bentonville | $94K |
| Little Rock | $90K |
| Fayetteville | $86K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Arkansas
Find computer science jobs in Arkansas. These major employers across Arkansas metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Bentonville-Rogers
ARWalmart Global Tech
tech
Sam's Club Tech
retail-tech
J.B. Hunt Transport
logistics
Tyson Foods
food-tech
Computer Science Jobs in Little Rock
ARDillards
retail
Acxiom
data
Windstream
telecom
Computer Science Jobs in Fayetteville
ARUniversity of Arkansas
education
Walmart
retail-tech
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Arkansas
State Transfer System
Arkansas provides a seamless transfer pathway for computer science students through the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS), a statewide agreement that guarantees course transferability among public institutions (ACTS). This system eliminates redundancy and ensures that students completing an associate's degree at one of Arkansas's 14 community college computer science programs can transfer credits directly toward a bachelor's degree with minimal loss (IPEDS). Institutions like University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College (tuition: $4,260), Arkansas Tech University (tuition: $5,995), and University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton (tuition: $2,688) offer affordable entry points. Students should work with academic advisors to ensure their course selections align with target four-year institution requirements and their intended specializations.
How Transfers Work
The 2+2 transfer model is particularly popular in Arkansas, allowing students to complete foundational coursework at community colleges before transferring to bachelor's programs at universities such as University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, or University of Central Arkansas. These partnerships reduce overall education costs while maintaining academic rigor and preparing students for upper-level computer science coursework. Transfer students are often eligible for the same financial aid and scholarships available to direct-admission freshmen, including the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship (Arkansas Division of Higher Education). To maximize transfer success, prospective students should use ACTS to verify course equivalencies, communicate with admissions counselors at their target universities, and maintain strong academic performance. For additional context on degree completion pathways, explore Software Engineering in Arkansas and Data Science in Arkansas as related fields offering similar transfer opportunities.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Arkansas?
Industry & Workforce
Arkansas offers a strong and accessible pathway to a computer science degree with 37 institutions offering programs across multiple credential levels (IPEDS). The state's higher education landscape includes 16 bachelor's degree programs, 14 associate's programs, and 6 master's programs, producing over 1,100 completions annually. This diversity of options ensures that students can find programs suited to their academic preparation and career timeline. Whether you're seeking an affordable entry point through a community college or pursuing advanced research at a research-intensive university, Arkansas delivers accessible opportunities in a growing tech field.
Salary Outlook
The state's major tech hubs, including the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro area and Little Rock, are home to significant employers like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, creating abundant internship and career opportunities for graduates. Tuition remains highly competitive, with average public in-state costs at $6,494 for four-year institutions, well below national averages (College Scorecard). Top-ranked programs like the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University combine affordability with academic excellence, while the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship provides up to $5,000 annually for qualifying students (Arkansas Division of Higher Education). For those seeking the most affordable entry points, institutions like Arkansas Tech University charge just $5,995 in tuition, making a computer science degree financially achievable for most students. Explore Software Engineering in Arkansas and Data Science in Arkansas for complementary specialization options.
26 Programs
Computer Science Program Availability in Arkansas
Arkansas offers 26 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Arkansas
Employment Outlook
Arkansas offers a growing and accessible job market for computer science professionals, supported by a diverse employer base and competitive educational infrastructure. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Arkansas provides numerous opportunities across multiple sectors, with major concentrations in Little Rock, Fayetteville, and the surrounding metros. The state's tech landscape is experiencing steady growth, driven by both established corporations and emerging startups seeking skilled developers and systems engineers. With 37 institutions offering computer science programs across associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, Arkansas produces a consistent pipeline of talent to fill regional demand.
Salaries by Metro
The Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway and Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metropolitan areas represent the strongest job markets for computer science graduates. These regions benefit from major corporate headquarters and tech operations, creating strong career pathways for both entry-level and experienced professionals. For comprehensive salary data and occupational outlook information specific to Arkansas, prospective students and job seekers can consult the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. Students graduating from top programs like the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University are well-positioned to enter this competitive market. For those interested in related fields, Arkansas also supports strong programs in Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Data Science.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Arkansas$55,725$124,309
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Arkansas
Online Programs
6 available in Arkansas
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$9,053/yr$10,059/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Louisiana
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $5,900
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $8,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $16,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Missouri
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $13,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $5,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Computer Science Degree Programs in Arkansas: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Arkansas?
The best computer science degree programs in Arkansas based on our methodology are: 1) University of Arkansas (80% graduation rate), 2) University of Central Arkansas, and 3) Arkansas State University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Arkansas offers 26 total accredited programs across 19 public and 7 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 16 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Arkansas?
Computer Science degree program costs in Arkansas vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $10,059/year, while private institutions average $22,130/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,515/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $40,236 at public schools to $88,519 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Arkansas?
Computer Science professionals in Arkansas earn a median salary of $85,730, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $55,725, while senior roles exceed $124,309. Salaries vary by metro area: Bentonville ($94,303), Little Rock ($90,017) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer science degree programs in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas offers 6 accredited online Computer Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas and University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Arkansas?
Major Computer Science employers in Arkansas include Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt, Dillards, Acxiom. The Bentonville and Little Rock metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Arkansas universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Arkansas's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Arkansas?
A computer science degree program in Arkansas offers strong ROI with a $85,730 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $10,059/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($96,875), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer science degree programs take in Arkansas?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Arkansas are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Arkansas community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Arkansas university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Arkansas?
Arkansas computer science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Arkansas state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Arkansas's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Arkansas salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.