Head-to-head · 2026
Adams State University vs University of Northern Colorado
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Adams State University, 2 for University of Northern Colorado — 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 | University of Northern Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.55 ✓ | 7.35 |
| Avg net price | $12,980 ✓ | $17,760 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,372 | $52,231 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 85.9% |
| Graduation rate | 39.4% | 51.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $20,470 |
| Enrollment | 1,250 | 5,598 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1082 |
| Wins | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Northern Colorado costs $4,780 more per year than Adams State University ($17,760 vs $12,980). University of Northern Colorado graduates report $7,859 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,231 vs $44,372). On EduGradify's model that puts Adams State University ahead on projected ROI (8.55 vs 7.35, 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, University of Northern Colorado reports 85.9% acceptance; Adams State University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Adams State University vs University of Northern Colorado, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Adams State University or University of Northern Colorado the better value?
Adams State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.55 vs 7.35), 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 $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado. The annual difference of $4,780 adds up to about $19,120 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Northern Colorado reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,231 vs $44,372 at Adams State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,859.
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; University of Northern Colorado reports C.