Head-to-head · 2026
Arkansas State University vs Philander Smith University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 5 wins for Arkansas State University, 0 for Philander Smith University — Arkansas State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Arkansas State University | Philander Smith University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.62 ✓ | 6.75 |
| Avg net price | $12,366 ✓ | $14,224 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $42,617 ✓ | $38,427 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.3% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 55.4% ✓ | 30.4% |
| Median debt | $20,500 ✓ | $24,736 |
| Enrollment | 9,110 | 751 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1090 | — |
| Wins | 5 | 0 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Philander Smith University costs $1,858 more per year than Arkansas State University ($14,224 vs $12,366). Arkansas State University graduates report $4,190 higher median earnings after ten years ($42,617 vs $38,427). On EduGradify's model that puts Arkansas State University ahead on projected ROI (8.62 vs 6.75, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Arkansas State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Arkansas State University reports 82.3% acceptance; Philander Smith University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Arkansas State University vs Philander Smith University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Arkansas State University or Philander Smith University the better value?
Arkansas State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.62 vs 6.75), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Arkansas State University is cheaper — average net price $12,366 per year vs $14,224 at Philander Smith University. The annual difference of $1,858 adds up to about $7,432 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Arkansas State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $42,617 vs $38,427 at Philander Smith University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,190.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Arkansas State University reports a B value grade; Philander Smith University reports C.