Public Health at University of Arkansas

University of Arkansas's public health program starts modestly but shows compelling momentum. First-year graduates earn $35,797—slightly below the national median but notably above Arkansas's state median of $34,180. More importantly, earnings jump 36% by year four to nearly $49,000, suggesting graduates are successfully advancing into better-paying positions. Among the six Arkansas schools offering this degree, U of A ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, making it a solid in-state choice.

The debt load of $25,595 is reasonable, translating to a 0.72 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests manageable monthly payments even at the starting salary. This sits right at both national and state medians, meaning students here aren't paying a premium compared to alternatives. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reliable data without raising concerns about program stability.

For Arkansas families, this represents practical value: competitive in-state tuition at a flagship university, combined with career trajectory that improves significantly after those first couple years in the field. The program won't catapult graduates into high earnings immediately, but the growth pattern indicates they're building marketable skills. If your student plans to stay in Arkansas or the region for public health work, this program delivers without unnecessary debt burden.