Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Tifton, GA & Fayetteville, AR
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and University of Arkansas, they're weighing two fundamentally different educational experiences. Both are public institutions serving students across the South, but one delivers on the promise of completion while the other struggles with retention.
The 41 percentage point graduation rate gap — Arkansas at 70% versus ABAC at 29% — represents the most significant factor in this comparison, overshadowing even the substantial cost differences.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$21,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$28,086
borrowed by parents
ABAC is agriculture-focused, with agricultural sciences comprising the dominant program family and 97 graduates in Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science fields annually. The program mix also includes business (11%) and education (11%).
Arkansas has a business emphasis, with 28% of graduates in business fields including 422 in Business Administration and 355 in Marketing. Arkansas offers broader diversity with engineering (10%), health sciences, and social sciences programs.
These different program concentrations help explain the substantial earnings gap between institutions.
For students likely to complete their degrees, Arkansas delivers substantially better career outcomes despite the higher cost — $23,195 more in median earnings typically justifies the investment. ABAC offers significant affordability advantages and specialized agriculture programs, making it the better choice for students specifically seeking agricultural careers who can navigate the completion challenges.
The data points to Arkansas as the stronger overall value, but success depends critically on finishing what you start. If you're academically prepared and focused on completion, Arkansas provides better long-term financial outcomes.
If agricultural specialization is your goal and cost is paramount, ABAC may work — but graduation must be the priority.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
