Head-to-head · 2026
Adams State University vs Community College of Aurora
Compare average net price ($12,980 at Adams State University; $8,656 at Community College of Aurora), ROI score (8.55 vs 12.88), ten-year median earnings ($44,372 vs $44,592), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Adams State University; Open / not reported at Community College of Aurora) using federal College Scorecard data. Community College of Aurora has a 4-1 metric-level edge. Community College of Aurora has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Adams State University | Community College of Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.55 | 12.88 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $12,980 | $8,656 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,372 | $44,592 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% ✓ | 33.5% |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $10,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,250 | 3,250 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Adams State University costs $4,324 more per year than Community College of Aurora ($12,980 vs $8,656). Community College of Aurora graduates report $220 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,592 vs $44,372). On EduGradify's model that puts Community College of Aurora ahead on projected ROI (12.88 vs 8.55, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Community College of Aurora) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, neither school reports a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data, so this matchup should lean on price, outcomes and fit instead.
Frequently asked
Adams State University vs Community College of Aurora, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Adams State University or Community College of Aurora the better value?
Community College of Aurora has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.88 vs 8.55), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Community College of Aurora is cheaper — average net price $8,656 per year vs $12,980 at Adams State University. The annual difference of $4,324 adds up to about $17,296 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Community College of Aurora reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,592 vs $44,372 at Adams State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $220.
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; Community College of Aurora reports A.