Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Arkansas Community College-Batesville

With $12,654 in debt for a program that starts at $64,187, UACCB offers nursing training at a price point that beats nearly all its competitors. That debt load is less than half what most Arkansas nursing programs charge and roughly 40% below the national median—meaning you'd start your career with far less financial pressure than peers from other schools. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20 means graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under three months if they dedicated their entire salary to it.

The catch is that UACCB graduates earn about $3,000 less than the state median and lag further behind top performers like Phillips Community College ($78,213) or Arkansas State-Newport ($74,682). You're trading some earning potential for dramatically lower cost. Still, at $64,187 starting out, your child would earn more than the typical American worker while carrying minimal debt—a solid foundation even if not the highest possible salary.

For families where keeping debt low is the priority—especially relevant given that 45% of students here receive Pell grants—this program delivers nursing credentials without the crushing loan burden. The modest earnings difference matters less when you're not spending years digging out from under debt. If your child plans to stay in Arkansas and values financial freedom early in their career, this represents smart risk management over potential upside.