Social Work at Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University's social work program sits in the middle of the Arkansas pack—exactly at the state median—but trails national benchmarks by about $4,000 annually. Starting earnings of $33,140 place graduates in the 23rd percentile nationally, though within Arkansas, this lands in the 60th percentile. That's less about this program excelling and more about Arkansas social work salaries running below the national average overall. If your child plans to stay in the region, these earnings are fairly typical. But if they're hoping to work in a higher-paying market, understand they'll be starting from a lower baseline than most social work graduates elsewhere.

The financial picture shows reasonable restraint: $29,370 in median debt translates to less than one year's starting salary, and graduates see solid 30% earnings growth over the first four years. That debt load actually falls below the Arkansas median and sits in the 22nd percentile nationally—meaning most social work students elsewhere graduate owing more. The trajectory from $33,140 to $43,119 over four years suggests steady career progression, which matters in a field where passion often outweighs pay.

One important caveat: this data comes from a small sample of fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary more than these medians suggest. For a student committed to social work in Arkansas, this program offers a manageable debt load and typical in-state earnings. Just recognize you're choosing a helping profession that pays modestly everywhere, but particularly in this region.