Head-to-head · 2026
Adams State University vs Metropolitan State University of Denver
Compare average net price ($12,980 at Adams State University; $15,327 at Metropolitan State University of Denver), ROI score (8.55 vs 8.50), ten-year median earnings ($44,372 vs $52,093), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Adams State University; 98.8% at Metropolitan State University of Denver) using federal College Scorecard data. Adams State University has a 4-1 metric-level edge. The ROI scores are close, so aid letters, program fit, graduation rate and debt should decide the better 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 | Metropolitan State University of Denver |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.55 ✓ | 8.50 |
| Avg net price | $12,980 ✓ | $15,327 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,372 | $52,093 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% ✓ | 31.5% |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $21,500 |
| Enrollment | 1,250 | 15,002 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1019 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Metropolitan State University of Denver costs $2,347 more per year than Adams State University ($15,327 vs $12,980). Metropolitan State University of Denver graduates report $7,721 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,093 vs $44,372). On EduGradify's model that puts Adams State University ahead on projected ROI (8.55 vs 8.50, 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, Metropolitan State University of Denver reports 98.8% acceptance; Adams State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Adams State University vs Metropolitan State University of Denver, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Adams State University or Metropolitan State University of Denver the better value?
Adams State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.55 vs 8.50), 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 $15,327 at Metropolitan State University of Denver. The annual difference of $2,347 adds up to about $9,388 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Metropolitan State University of Denver reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,093 vs $44,372 at Adams State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,721.
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; Metropolitan State University of Denver reports B.