Head-to-head · 2026
Carroll University vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Compare average net price ($15,193 at Carroll University; $11,772 at University of Wisconsin-Parkside), ROI score (9.55 vs 10.86), ten-year median earnings ($58,009 vs $51,129), and admissions selectivity (66.8% acceptance at Carroll University; 75.4% at University of Wisconsin-Parkside) using federal College Scorecard data. Carroll University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Wisconsin-Parkside 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 | Carroll University | University of Wisconsin-Parkside |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.55 | 10.86 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $15,193 | $11,772 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $58,009 ✓ | $51,129 |
| Acceptance rate | 66.8% ✓ | 75.4% |
| Graduation rate | 70.7% ✓ | 40.4% |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $20,492 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,523 | 2,844 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1190 ✓ | 1090 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Carroll University costs $3,421 more per year than University of Wisconsin-Parkside ($15,193 vs $11,772). Carroll University graduates report $6,880 higher median earnings after ten years ($58,009 vs $51,129). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Wisconsin-Parkside ahead on projected ROI (10.86 vs 9.55, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Wisconsin-Parkside) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Carroll University is accessible at 66.8% acceptance versus 75.4% (accessible) at University of Wisconsin-Parkside.
Frequently asked
Carroll University vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Carroll University or University of Wisconsin-Parkside the better value?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.86 vs 9.55), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside is cheaper — average net price $11,772 per year vs $15,193 at Carroll University. The annual difference of $3,421 adds up to about $13,684 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Carroll University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $58,009 vs $51,129 at University of Wisconsin-Parkside. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,880.
Which school is harder to get into?
Carroll University is more selective at 66.8% acceptance vs 75.4% at University of Wisconsin-Parkside.
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. Carroll University reports a B value grade; University of Wisconsin-Parkside reports A.