Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Arkansas
Bachelor's Degree
uark.eduAnalysis
University of Arkansas's business program significantly outperforms both state and national expectations, ranking in the 87th percentile nationally and 80th percentile within Arkansasβimpressive given the competitive landscape. With median earnings of $56,456 in the first year, graduates earn nearly $45% more than the typical Arkansas business graduate and 23% above the national median. Among Arkansas schools, only University of Arkansas Grantham edges slightly higher, making this a clear standout in the state.
The debt picture adds to the appeal. At $21,500, graduates carry about $3,000 less debt than Arkansas peers and $4,500 below the national average, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.38βmeaning debt represents less than five months of starting salary. Strong earnings growth of 22% by year four brings median pay to $69,084, demonstrating the program builds valuable career momentum.
For parents weighing options, this represents solid value: a respected state flagship delivering top-tier outcomes at below-average cost. The 72% admission rate makes it accessible, while the robust sample size of 100+ graduates provides confidence these results are reliable rather than statistical noise.
Where University of Arkansas Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Arkansas graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | $56,456 | $69,084 | +22% |
| John Brown University | $54,982 | $64,771 | +18% |
| Harding University | $40,081 | $59,470 | +48% |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | $59,009 | $58,286 | -1% |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | $39,022 | $51,636 | +32% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,748 | $56,456 | $69,084 | $21,500 | 0.38 | |
| $8,280 | $59,009 | $58,286 | $39,269 | 0.67 | |
| $30,832 | $54,982 | $64,771 | $27,000 | 0.49 | |
| $24,888 | $40,081 | $59,470 | $27,750 | 0.69 | |
| $8,508 | $39,866 | $41,009 | $21,780 | 0.55 | |
| $6,906 | $39,057 | $42,588 | $19,148 | 0.49 | |
| National Median | β | $45,703 | β | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Arkansas, approximately 17% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 408 graduates with reported earnings and 381 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.