University of Arkansas – Sam M. Walton College of Business
Overview
The Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas is one of the most prestigious MBA programs in the state, primarily because of its strong connections with Fortune 500 companies, particularly in retail and logistics. The MBA curriculum places a significant focus on leadership, business analytics, and supply chain management, areas that are vital in the surrounding region. The program offers a flexible format for both full-time students and working professionals, with opportunities for internships, case competitions, and hands-on projects with major corporations like Walmart and Tyson Foods.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked 74th in the U.S.
- Number of Students: 207 full-time MBA students
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- Average GMAT Score: 557
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Walmart
- Tyson Foods
- J.B. Hunt
- Deloitte
- PwC
- Average Starting Salary: $79,911
Notable Alumni
- Doug McMillon: CEO of Walmart
- John Furner: President & CEO of Walmart U.S.
- Tom Mars: Former Chief Administrative Officer, Walmart
University of Arkansas at Little Rock – College of Business
Overview
The College of Business at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock offers a flexible MBA program tailored for both full-time students and working professionals. Located in the state capital, the program provides students with access to the state’s political and economic hubs, making it an ideal choice for those interested in government, finance, and corporate sectors. The school emphasizes entrepreneurship, strategic management, and finance, offering students the chance to work on real-world business problems through internships and partnerships with local companies.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among the top 200 business schools in the U.S.
- Number of Students: 150 full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Average GMAT Score: 525
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Stephens Inc.
- Dillard’s
- Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Windstream Communications
- Average Starting Salary: $63,300
Notable Alumni
- Pulaski County Executives: Many government and private sector leaders
- Richard Weiss: Former Director of Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration
- Cliff Hoofman: Former State Senator
Arkansas State University – Neil Griffin College of Business
Overview
Arkansas State University’s Neil Griffin College of Business is known for its affordability and strong focus on leadership development. The MBA program at ASU provides students with a diverse range of concentrations, including healthcare administration, supply chain management, and international business. The program is designed for students who are looking to expand their skills in business operations, analytics, and strategic management, with a particular emphasis on leadership roles in the regional business community.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among the top regional business schools
- Number of Students: 180 full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Average GMAT Score: 510
- Top Hiring Companies:
- St. Bernards Healthcare
- NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital
- Arkansas State Government
- Unilever
- Average Starting Salary: $62,200
Notable Alumni
- Mike Preston: Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission
- Bruce Burrow: CEO of Burrow Investment Group
- Jack Robson: President of Robson Oil
University of Central Arkansas – College of Business
Overview
The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) offers an MBA program that prides itself on small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and a strong regional network of businesses. UCA’s MBA program is particularly attractive to students interested in a well-rounded business education, with core classes in finance, marketing, and leadership. UCA also offers several electives that allow students to tailor their studies based on their career aspirations, with options for internships and networking opportunities with local businesses.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked within the top 250 MBA programs nationally
- Number of Students: 130 full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Average GMAT Score: 500
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Acxiom
- Hewlett-Packard
- Arkansas Children’s Hospital
- Conway Regional Health System
- Average Starting Salary: $53,700
Notable Alumni
- Tom Courtway: Former President of UCA
- Mike Beebe: Former Governor of Arkansas
- Stephanie Izard: Founder and CEO of Goat Group
John Brown University – Soderquist College of Business
Overview
John Brown University’s Soderquist College of Business offers a distinct MBA program with a focus on ethical leadership and global business strategy. Located in Northwest Arkansas, the program emphasizes Christian values and business ethics, making it a unique choice for students who want to integrate faith into their professional development. With small class sizes and a flexible online MBA option, the program appeals to both full-time students and working professionals. The program is particularly strong in leadership, strategy, and entrepreneurship.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among the top Christian MBA programs in the U.S.
- Number of Students: 100 full-time and online students
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Average GMAT Score: 550
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Walmart
- J.B. Hunt
- Mercy Health
- Arvest Bank
- Average Starting Salary: $82,700
Notable Alumni
- Don Soderquist: Former COO of Walmart and philanthropist
- Tim Harlin: CEO of CommonSpirit Health
- Andy Wilson: Founder of Wilson Investment Group
Southern Arkansas University – College of Business
Overview
Southern Arkansas University’s MBA program is designed for students looking for a comprehensive and affordable business education. The program offers courses in business administration, marketing, and financial management, with the option to take classes either on-campus or online. Southern Arkansas University emphasizes experiential learning, offering students the chance to engage in consulting projects, internships, and other hands-on learning opportunities with businesses throughout the region.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among the top regional MBA programs
- Number of Students: 90 full-time and part-time students
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Average GMAT Score: 510
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Murphy USA
- Albemarle Corporation
- Magnolia Regional Medical Center
- Walmart
- Average Starting Salary: $74,000
Notable Alumni
- David F. Rankin: Former President of Southern Arkansas University
- Steve Cousins: Former CEO of Murphy Oil Corporation
- Bill Garrison: CEO of Farmers Bank and Trust
Arkansas Tech University – College of Business
Overview
Arkansas Tech University’s MBA program offers a practical business education at an affordable price. The program is designed to help students build critical skills in decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership. Arkansas Tech offers both online and in-person MBA options, making it a flexible choice for students balancing work and family commitments. Graduates often find employment within the state’s growing industries, particularly in manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Ranked among the top affordable MBA programs
- Number of Students: 80 full-time and online students
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average GMAT Score: 500
- Top Hiring Companies:
- Arkansas Department of Human Services
- Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center
- Simmons Bank
- Average Starting Salary: $44,250
Notable Alumni
- John Womack: CEO of Arvest Central Arkansas
- Leonard Bryan: CFO of Bryan Industries
- Mary Beth Carozza: Maryland State Senator and ATU graduate