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University of Arkansas at Monticello
Monticello, ARPublic
$5,685
Tuition/yr
49%
Grad rate
82.8
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information systems degree programs: U of Arkansas, U of Arkansas Grantham, Arkansas State
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $2,616 to $31,780/year
Arkansas Tech offers the most affordable option at $5,995/yr
Information Systems degree programs available: 6 associate's, 7 master's in Arkansas
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
5 online information systems degree programs in Arkansas
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Arkansas community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
6 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Walmart, Tyson Foods, JB Hunt, Dillards
Tech hubs in Bentonville and Little Rock
Hakia Research 2026
Information Systems degree programs near 42+ cities across Arkansas
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Arkansas Information Systems programs
We rank 24 accredited information systems 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 methodologyAre Information Systems Degree Programs in Arkansas Worth It?
Answer
$85,730
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Arkansas deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $85,730 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $9,774/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Systems Degree Rankings in Arkansas
Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Arkansas by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Information Systems Programs in Arkansas
5
Programs ranked
$3,418
Avg tuition/yr
45%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arkansas offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in information systems, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Arkansas Tech, U of Arkansas at Monticello, North Arkansas College, 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 $3,841/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 information systems schools in Arkansas, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information systems degrees in Arkansas.
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Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
Mountain Home, ARPublic
$2,712
Tuition/yr
44%
Grad rate
82.0
Hakia Score
Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Arkansas
5
Programs ranked
$9,423
Avg tuition/yr
44%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arkansas ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 11 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 7 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Arkansas, U of Arkansas Grantham, Arkansas State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Arkansas information systems 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 $5,400 to $31,780 annually, with an average of $12,268/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 87%, 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 information systems degrees in Arkansas, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$6,810
Tuition/yr
42%
Grad rate
73.0
Hakia Score
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University of Arkansas at Monticello
Monticello, ARPublic
$5,685
Tuition/yr
49%
Grad rate
70.2
Hakia Score
#4
$7,320
Tuition/yr
43%
Grad rate
69.9
Hakia Score
Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Arkansas
3
Programs ranked
$13,140
Avg tuition/yr
51%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Arkansas offers 7 master's degree programs in information systems, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Arkansas State, U of Arkansas, U of Arkansas Grantham, 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 $9,414/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 information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$7,320
Tuition/yr
43%
Grad rate
71.2
Hakia Score
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$6,810
Tuition/yr
42%
Grad rate
71.1
Hakia Score
Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Arkansas
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $9,774/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $24,435/year |
| Community college tuition | $2,444/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $58,644 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $14,660 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Arkansas
State Aid Programs
Arkansas students pursuing Information Systems degrees have access to multiple financial aid options at both federal and state levels. The primary federal aid resource is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Arkansas also offers the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, a merit-based program that awards up to $5,000 annually to academically talented students attending public institutions in the state. This scholarship is particularly valuable for students enrolling in accredited Information Systems programs across Arkansas's 30 institutions offering IS degrees at various levels.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, prospective students should explore institutional scholarships offered by their chosen institution. The Arkansas Division of Higher Education provides comprehensive information about all available funding sources and can guide students through the application process. Students enrolled in Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's programs should verify eligibility requirements for each funding source, as criteria vary by program level, residency status, and academic standing. For detailed information about federal aid programs and eligibility, visit Federal Student Aid. Additionally, exploring programs at schools like University of Arkansas at Little Rock and Arkansas Tech University can reveal institution-specific financial support packages that may supplement state and federal aid.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Arkansas
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems 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.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information systems 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
Information Systems 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 Information Systems Graduates in Arkansas
Find information systems jobs in Arkansas. These major employers across Arkansas metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Systems Jobs in Bentonville-Rogers
ARWalmart Global Tech
tech
Sam's Club Tech
retail-tech
J.B. Hunt Transport
logistics
Tyson Foods
food-tech
Information Systems Jobs in Little Rock
ARDillards
retail
Acxiom
data
Windstream
telecom
Information Systems Jobs in Fayetteville
ARUniversity of Arkansas
education
Walmart
retail-tech
Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Arkansas
State Transfer System
Arkansas's 25 two-year institutions provide accessible entry points for students pursuing Information Systems degrees through 10 associate's degree programs (IPEDS). The Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS) guarantees that coursework completed at community colleges and two-year technical colleges transfers seamlessly to four-year universities across the state, eliminating credit loss and accelerating degree completion. This statewide articulation framework allows students to begin at affordable institutions like the University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton ($2,688 tuition) or NorthWest Arkansas Community College ($3,480 tuition) before transitioning to bachelor's programs at universities like Arkansas Tech University ($5,995 tuition) or University of Arkansas at Little Rock ($6,600 tuition).
How Transfers Work
Specific transfer pathways are well-established among Arkansas's major institutions. Students completing an associate's degree at Arkansas Tech University or the University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College can directly transfer into bachelor's programs at the University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, or University of Central Arkansas with guaranteed course credit. The ACTS system eliminates redundancy and allows students to save thousands in tuition costs while maintaining academic momentum. Additionally, students can leverage federal financial aid and the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship across both two-year and four-year pathways. For detailed transfer agreements and course equivalencies, consult the Arkansas Division of Higher Education or explore related programs like Information Technology in Arkansas and Database Management in Arkansas to customize your educational route.
Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Arkansas?
Industry & Workforce
Arkansas offers strong opportunities for Information Systems education across 30 institutions statewide, with 12 bachelor's-granting universities and 10 associate's degree programs (IPEDS). The state produces 218 bachelor's completions annually, reflecting strong workforce demand in a region home to major technology employers. Leading institutions like the University of Arkansas, Arkansas Tech University, and Arkansas State University collectively produce hundreds of IS graduates each year, creating a vibrant pipeline of talent for regional and national employers (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
Arkansas's major metropolitan areas, including the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro and Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, host significant technology operations for companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt, creating exceptional internship and career opportunities (BLS State Data). Tuition costs remain competitive, with average public four-year in-state tuition at just $6,494, making Arkansas an affordable gateway to IS careers. Students also benefit from the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, which awards up to $5,000 annually for academically talented students. Explore Information Technology in Arkansas and Data Analytics in Arkansas to broaden your technical career path options.
Information Systems Program Availability in Arkansas
15 Programs
Arkansas offers 15 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bentonville, Little Rock, Fayetteville.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Arkansas
Employment Outlook
Arkansas offers a growing and accessible job market for Information Systems professionals across multiple regions and industry sectors. The state's tech landscape is concentrated in key metropolitan areas including Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, and Fort Smith, where demand for IT professionals continues to expand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Arkansas employers are actively seeking skilled Information Systems graduates to fill roles in data management, systems administration, and enterprise IT infrastructure. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions at $6,494 makes Arkansas an affordable pathway into this competitive field, compared to the out-of-state average of $13,730.
Salaries by Metro
The Information Systems program landscape in Arkansas reflects strong institutional support, with 30 total institutions offering credentials ranging from associate's to master's degrees. Arkansas has 12 institutions offering bachelor's degrees with 218 completions annually, while 8 institutions offer master's programs producing 252 completions per year. Top-performing schools like the University of Arkansas, Arkansas Tech University, and Arkansas State University are producing well-trained graduates entering a job market shaped by major employers and regional tech hubs. Students interested in related fields should explore opportunities in Information Technology in Arkansas and Data Analytics in Arkansas, which complement Information Systems careers and expand career pathways across the state.
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 Information Systems Programs in Arkansas
Online Programs
5 available in Arkansas
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$8,797/yr$9,774/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 Information Systems Programs in Other States
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Louisiana
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $5,200
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $9,500
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Missouri
- Total Programs
- 28
- Median Tuition
- $13,000
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Oklahoma
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $6,300
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 133
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Information Systems Degree Programs in Arkansas: FAQ
What are the best information systems degree programs in Arkansas?
The best information systems degree programs in Arkansas based on our methodology are: 1) University of Arkansas (80% graduation rate), 2) University of Arkansas Grantham, and 3) Arkansas State University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Arkansas offers 15 total accredited programs across 11 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 11 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Arkansas?
Information Systems degree program costs in Arkansas vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $9,774/year, while private institutions average $21,503/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $2,444/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $39,096 at public schools to $86,011 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 information systems degree graduates earn in Arkansas?
Information Systems 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 information systems degree programs in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas offers 5 accredited online Information Systems 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 Arkansas State University-Beebe and Arkansas State University-Mountain Home. 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 information systems degree graduates in Arkansas?
Major Information Systems 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 an information systems degree program worth it in Arkansas?
An information systems degree program in Arkansas offers strong ROI with a $85,730 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $9,774/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 information systems degree programs take in Arkansas?
Standard completion times for information systems 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 information systems degree students in Arkansas?
Arkansas information systems 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.