Head-to-head · 2026
Philander Smith University vs University of Arkansas
Compare average net price ($14,224 at Philander Smith University; $18,209 at University of Arkansas), ROI score (6.75 vs 7.99), ten-year median earnings ($38,427 vs $58,191), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Philander Smith University; 74.3% at University of Arkansas) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Arkansas has a 4-1 metric-level edge. University of Arkansas leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Philander Smith University | University of Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.75 | 7.99 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,224 ✓ | $18,209 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $38,427 | $58,191 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 74.3% |
| Graduation rate | 30.4% | 70.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,736 | $21,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 751 | 28,677 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1169 |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Arkansas costs $3,985 more per year than Philander Smith University ($18,209 vs $14,224). University of Arkansas graduates report $19,764 higher median earnings after ten years ($58,191 vs $38,427). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Arkansas ahead on projected ROI (7.99 vs 6.75, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Arkansas) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Arkansas reports 74.3% acceptance; Philander Smith University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Philander Smith University vs University of Arkansas, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Philander Smith University or University of Arkansas the better value?
University of Arkansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.99 vs 6.75), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Philander Smith University is cheaper — average net price $14,224 per year vs $18,209 at University of Arkansas. The annual difference of $3,985 adds up to about $15,940 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Arkansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $58,191 vs $38,427 at Philander Smith University. The annual gap in the federal data is $19,764.
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. Philander Smith University reports a C value grade; University of Arkansas reports B.