Head-to-head · 2026
Philander Smith University vs University of Central Arkansas
Compare average net price ($14,224 at Philander Smith University; $16,511 at University of Central Arkansas), ROI score (6.75 vs 6.96), ten-year median earnings ($38,427 vs $45,938), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Philander Smith University; 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Central Arkansas has a 4-1 metric-level edge. University of Central 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 Central Arkansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.75 | 6.96 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,224 ✓ | $16,511 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $38,427 | $45,938 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 89.5% |
| Graduation rate | 30.4% | 53.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,736 | $20,346 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 751 | 7,762 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1118 |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Central Arkansas costs $2,287 more per year than Philander Smith University ($16,511 vs $14,224). University of Central Arkansas graduates report $7,511 higher median earnings after ten years ($45,938 vs $38,427). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Central Arkansas ahead on projected ROI (6.96 vs 6.75, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Central Arkansas) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Central Arkansas reports 89.5% acceptance; Philander Smith University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Philander Smith University vs University of Central Arkansas, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Philander Smith University or University of Central Arkansas the better value?
University of Central Arkansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.96 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 $16,511 at University of Central Arkansas. The annual difference of $2,287 adds up to about $9,148 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Central Arkansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $45,938 vs $38,427 at Philander Smith University. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,511.
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 Central Arkansas reports C.