Head-to-head · 2026
University of Central Arkansas vs University of the Ozarks
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 6 wins for University of Central Arkansas, 1 for University of the Ozarks — University of Central Arkansas 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 | University of Central Arkansas | University of the Ozarks |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.96 ✓ | 6.39 |
| Avg net price | $16,511 ✓ | $17,360 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,938 ✓ | $44,384 |
| Acceptance rate | 89.5% | 59.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 53.5% ✓ | 51.5% |
| Median debt | $20,346 ✓ | $20,875 |
| Enrollment | 7,762 | 767 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1118 ✓ | 1105 |
| Wins | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of the Ozarks costs $849 more per year than University of Central Arkansas ($17,360 vs $16,511). University of Central Arkansas graduates report $1,554 higher median earnings after ten years ($45,938 vs $44,384). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Central Arkansas ahead on projected ROI (6.96 vs 6.39, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Central Arkansas) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Central Arkansas is accessible at 89.5% acceptance versus 59.5% (accessible) at University of the Ozarks.
Frequently asked
University of Central Arkansas vs University of the Ozarks, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Central Arkansas or University of the Ozarks the better value?
University of Central Arkansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.96 vs 6.39), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Central Arkansas is cheaper — average net price $16,511 per year vs $17,360 at University of the Ozarks. The annual difference of $849 adds up to about $3,396 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Central Arkansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $45,938 vs $44,384 at University of the Ozarks. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,554.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of the Ozarks is more selective at 59.5% acceptance vs 89.5% at University of Central Arkansas.
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. University of Central Arkansas reports a C value grade; University of the Ozarks reports C.