Little Rock, AR · Private University
Is Philander Smith University Worth It?
ROI analysis based on real earnings and cost data
Key Numbers
10-Year Earnings
$38,427
median, 10 years after enrollment
In-State Tuition
$13,014
per year
Out-of-State Tuition
$13,014
per year
Total 4-Year Cost
$52,056
tuition only (4 years)
ROI Ratio
2.95x
earnings ÷ annual tuition
Payback Period
15.2 yrs
years to recoup total cost
Graduation Rate
32.3%
6-year graduation rate
Median Debt
$24,736
at graduation
Avg Net Price
$15,360
after aid & scholarships
Earnings vs. Annual Cost
10-year median earnings compared to annual tuition
Philander Smith University graduates earn $6,573 less than the national median of workers with any education level.
What You'd Actually Pay
Average net price after grants and scholarships, by family income
Source: IPEDS net price data. Actual costs vary based on individual financial circumstances.
Highest-Earning Majors
Top programs at Philander Smith University ranked by graduate earnings
18 graduates
Earnings shown are 4-year post-graduation medians where available, otherwise 1-year medians.
The Bottom Line
Philander Smith University stands out as a strong financial investment among U.S. colleges. Graduates earn $38,427 10 years after starting, $6,573 below the national median of $45,000. At the current earnings trajectory, it takes approximately 15.2 years to recover the total cost of attendance.
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Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Tuition data from IPEDS. ROI calculations are for informational purposes only and reflect median outcomes.