Head-to-head · 2026
Centre College vs Northern Kentucky University
Compare average net price ($20,781 at Centre College; $8,191 at Northern Kentucky University), ROI score (7.97 vs 15.33), ten-year median earnings ($66,240 vs $50,220), and admissions selectivity (54.4% acceptance at Centre College; 67.7% at Northern Kentucky University) using federal College Scorecard data. Centre College has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Northern Kentucky University 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 | Centre College | Northern Kentucky University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.97 | 15.33 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $20,781 | $8,191 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $66,240 ✓ | $50,220 |
| Acceptance rate | 54.4% ✓ | 67.7% |
| Graduation rate | 80.7% ✓ | 52.2% |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $23,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,400 | 8,246 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1352 ✓ | 1087 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Centre College costs $12,590 more per year than Northern Kentucky University ($20,781 vs $8,191). Centre College graduates report $16,020 higher median earnings after ten years ($66,240 vs $50,220). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern Kentucky University ahead on projected ROI (15.33 vs 7.97, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Northern Kentucky University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Centre College is selective at 54.4% acceptance versus 67.7% (accessible) at Northern Kentucky University.
Frequently asked
Centre College vs Northern Kentucky University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Centre College or Northern Kentucky University the better value?
Northern Kentucky University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (15.33 vs 7.97), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Northern Kentucky University is cheaper — average net price $8,191 per year vs $20,781 at Centre College. The annual difference of $12,590 adds up to about $50,360 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Centre College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $66,240 vs $50,220 at Northern Kentucky University. The annual gap in the federal data is $16,020.
Which school is harder to get into?
Centre College is more selective at 54.4% acceptance vs 67.7% at Northern Kentucky University.
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. Centre College reports a B value grade; Northern Kentucky University reports A.