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 • Little Rock, AR & Conway, AR
When students choose between University of Central Arkansas and University of Arkansas at Little Rock, they're comparing two Arkansas public universities with similar missions but different completion outcomes. Both schools serve middle-class families at comparable costs and feed graduates into regional job markets.
The decisive factor isn't price or earnings — it's whether students actually finish their degrees. UCA's graduation rate advantage tells the real story about institutional effectiveness.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$22,000
federal loans
$20,346
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$10,492
borrowed by parents
$16,180
borrowed by parents
UCA is predominantly business-focused, with 19% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 9% in education and 7% in arts. UALR emphasizes health professions, with nursing as its largest program (176 graduates annually) alongside criminal justice (115) and psychology (78).
UCA's top programs include psychology (135 graduates), nursing (105), and teacher education (94). These different program concentrations shape career paths, though both schools produce similar median earnings for those who complete their studies.
For students prioritizing completion likelihood, UCA delivers a 12 percentage point advantage in graduation rates with virtually identical career outcomes. UALR offers slightly lower costs and serves a more diverse student population, making it valuable for students seeking access and affordability.
The data points to UCA as the stronger choice for traditional students focused on degree completion, but UALR serves an important role for non-traditional and first-generation students who need accessible higher education options. The right choice depends on your academic preparation, support needs, and family circumstances.
If finishing your degree is the top priority, UCA's track record provides meaningful advantages.
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.
