Head-to-head · 2026
Adams State University vs Community College of Denver
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Adams State University, 3 for Community College of Denver — Community College of Denver 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 | Community College of Denver |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.55 | 10.34 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $12,980 | $9,450 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,372 ✓ | $39,095 |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% ✓ | 20% |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $12,495 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,250 | 5,096 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Wins | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Adams State University costs $3,530 more per year than Community College of Denver ($12,980 vs $9,450). Adams State University graduates report $5,277 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,372 vs $39,095). On EduGradify's model that puts Community College of Denver ahead on projected ROI (10.34 vs 8.55, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Community College of Denver) 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 Denver, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Adams State University or Community College of Denver the better value?
Community College of Denver has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.34 vs 8.55), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Community College of Denver is cheaper — average net price $9,450 per year vs $12,980 at Adams State University. The annual difference of $3,530 adds up to about $14,120 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Adams State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,372 vs $39,095 at Community College of Denver. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,277.
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 Denver reports B.

