Head-to-head · 2026
Adams State University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Adams State University, 2 for Colorado State University-Fort Collins — Adams State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Adams State University | Colorado State University-Fort Collins |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.55 ✓ | 7.11 |
| Avg net price | $12,980 ✓ | $21,279 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,372 | $60,543 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 88.5% |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% | 66.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $20,000 |
| Enrollment | 1,250 | 25,538 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Wins | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Colorado State University-Fort Collins costs $8,299 more per year than Adams State University ($21,279 vs $12,980). Colorado State University-Fort Collins graduates report $16,171 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,543 vs $44,372). On EduGradify's model that puts Adams State University ahead on projected ROI (8.55 vs 7.11, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Adams State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Colorado State University-Fort Collins reports 88.5% acceptance; Adams State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Adams State University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Adams State University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins the better value?
Adams State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.55 vs 7.11), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Adams State University is cheaper — average net price $12,980 per year vs $21,279 at Colorado State University-Fort Collins. The annual difference of $8,299 adds up to about $33,196 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Colorado State University-Fort Collins reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,543 vs $44,372 at Adams State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $16,171.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Adams State University reports a B value grade; Colorado State University-Fort Collins reports C.