Biology at Arkansas Tech University

Arkansas Tech's biology program shows stronger earnings growth than its modest starting point suggests, though parents should note the data comes from a small sample that may not reflect typical outcomes. The real story here is geography: while graduates earn below the national median, they're performing at the 60th percentile among Arkansas biology programs—a meaningful distinction in a state where this degree typically starts around $28,000. By year four, earnings reach $41,491, representing 40% growth that outpaces many peers.

The debt picture is notably favorable. At $16,640, graduates carry significantly less than both the state median ($21,500) and national median ($25,000), creating manageable monthly payments even during that first year when earnings are lowest. This puts Arkansas Tech graduates in a better position than 95% of biology programs nationally on debt burden—a genuine advantage for families concerned about financial stress after graduation.

The key tradeoff is clear: lower immediate earnings in exchange for minimal debt and access to an open-admission university. For Arkansas residents planning to stay in-state, where bio salaries trend lower anyway, this program offers a cost-effective path. However, the small sample size means one cohort's unusual outcomes could skew these figures considerably. Families should verify current career services support and ask about typical employer destinations before committing.