Head-to-head · 2026
Philander Smith University vs University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Compare average net price ($14,224 at Philander Smith University; $10,574 at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith), ROI score (6.75 vs 9.72), ten-year median earnings ($38,427 vs $41,102), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Philander Smith University; 80.5% at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith has a 5-0 metric-level edge. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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-Fort Smith |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.75 | 9.72 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,224 | $10,574 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $38,427 | $41,102 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 80.5% |
| Graduation rate | 30.4% | 37.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,736 | $18,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 751 | 4,091 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1050 |
| Metric advantages | 0 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Philander Smith University costs $3,650 more per year than University of Arkansas-Fort Smith ($14,224 vs $10,574). University of Arkansas-Fort Smith graduates report $2,675 higher median earnings after ten years ($41,102 vs $38,427). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Arkansas-Fort Smith ahead on projected ROI (9.72 vs 6.75, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Arkansas-Fort Smith) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith reports 80.5% 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-Fort Smith, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Philander Smith University or University of Arkansas-Fort Smith the better value?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.72 vs 6.75), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is cheaper — average net price $10,574 per year vs $14,224 at Philander Smith University. The annual difference of $3,650 adds up to about $14,600 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $41,102 vs $38,427 at Philander Smith University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,675.
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-Fort Smith reports B.