There are two sizable schools in Arkansas that offer different types of fashion degrees: Harding University and the University of Arkansas. Overall, the average cost of tuition in Arkansas is $11,397. However, tuition at the University of Arkansas is about $8,000 less than Harding University.
No matter which fashion field you want to go into, there are many scholarship opportunities. Savvy Kids offers scholarships of $4000 and $2500 to Arkansas fashion students that produce award-winning designs. With an average acceptance rate of 69%, you have a good chance of getting into the school you want to attend.
Your career prospects as a fashion graduate depend on your education level and what degree you earn. However, most jobs are found in retail stores, design companies, and marketing or merchandising companies. Some of the most important fashion employers in Arkansas are Windsor Fashions, Express, and Acumen Brands Inc. The unemployment rate in Arkansas is 7.4%, and it has remained stable since July 2013.
Salaries vary widely in fashion careers. Experience is very important in this field, so your earning potential will likely increase as you gain more experience. Fashion designers earn an average salary of $67,720 per year, and merchandise displayers earn an average salary of $30,520 (BLS, 2012). Marketing specialists earn, on average, $61,180 per year (BLS, 2012).