Little Rock, Arkansas – The Natural State, Arkansas, boasts an array of educational institutions, including over 40 colleges, universities, and technical schools. These institutions cater to a diverse range of student interests and career goals. Within this assortment, there are undoubtedly premier institutions, some decent choices, and a few that might not make the grade.
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To streamline the decision-making process for prospective students and shed light on institutions that might need more scrutiny, Education. Alot recently compiled a list detailing the worst colleges across the 50 states. This list is a culmination of data derived from the United States Department of Education, Niche, and College Factual.
Arkansas’ Least Favored College: Philander Smith University
Topping the list for Arkansas is Philander Smith University. Located in Little Rock, this institution, founded in 1877, is a historically black college with affiliations to the United Methodist Church. However, its legacy seems to be overshadowed by its present challenges.
One significant concern surrounding Philander Smith University is its graduation rate. The school reports an average graduation rate of a mere 39%. Furthermore, students depart from the university burdened with an average debt of $26,616. The subsequent earnings for these graduates present an even grimmer picture. With a median earning of just $24,400, repaying loans becomes a daunting task. This struggle is evident, as a significant 20.1% of its students default on their loans within just three years.
For students considering their higher education options in Arkansas, such data-driven insights can provide a more informed foundation for their decisions.
