Computer Science at University of Arkansas Grantham

University of Arkansas Grantham's online computer science program sits solidly in the middle tier nationally—40th percentile for earnings—but that masks a more troubling detail. Arkansas tech graduates typically earn $75,169, yet Grantham's students start at $66,795, trailing the state median by over $8,000. Meanwhile, they're carrying nearly double the debt of peers at other Arkansas schools ($44,701 vs. $24,149 state median). This combination—below-average starting salaries with above-average debt—means Grantham grads face a tougher financial launch than computer science students at the University of Arkansas or Harding University.

The debt burden itself isn't catastrophic at 0.67 times first-year earnings, and these graduates do enter a field with strong long-term prospects. But the 62% Pell grant rate suggests many students here need college to work as an economic ladder, and starting $8,000 behind state peers while carrying twice the debt creates unnecessary friction. For families considering online options specifically, this data suggests the convenience premium comes with real costs—both in direct debt and in potentially weaker employer connections or career services compared to traditional programs. If your child can access Arkansas's flagship university or similar in-state options, the financial case for choosing those becomes clear.