Head-to-head · 2026
Adams State University vs Community College of Denver
Compare average net price ($12,980 at Adams State University; $9,450 at Community College of Denver), ROI score (8.55 vs 10.34), ten-year median earnings ($44,372 vs $39,095), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Adams State University; Open / not reported at Community College of Denver) using federal College Scorecard data. Community College of Denver has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Community College of Denver leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
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 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 | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 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.