Head-to-head · 2026
Coe College vs University of Northern Iowa
Compare average net price ($18,745 at Coe College; $15,901 at University of Northern Iowa), ROI score (7.62 vs 8.68), ten-year median earnings ($57,125 vs $55,177), and admissions selectivity (64% acceptance at Coe College; 92.7% at University of Northern Iowa) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Northern Iowa has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Northern Iowa 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 | Coe College | University of Northern Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.62 | 8.68 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $18,745 | $15,901 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $57,125 ✓ | $55,177 |
| Acceptance rate | 64% ✓ | 92.7% |
| Graduation rate | 65.9% | 67.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $19,691 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,164 | 7,529 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1223 ✓ | 1122 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Coe College costs $2,844 more per year than University of Northern Iowa ($18,745 vs $15,901). Coe College graduates report $1,948 higher median earnings after ten years ($57,125 vs $55,177). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Northern Iowa ahead on projected ROI (8.68 vs 7.62, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Northern Iowa) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Coe College is accessible at 64% acceptance versus 92.7% (accessible) at University of Northern Iowa.
Frequently asked
Coe College vs University of Northern Iowa, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Coe College or University of Northern Iowa the better value?
University of Northern Iowa has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.68 vs 7.62), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Northern Iowa is cheaper — average net price $15,901 per year vs $18,745 at Coe College. The annual difference of $2,844 adds up to about $11,376 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Coe College reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $57,125 vs $55,177 at University of Northern Iowa. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,948.
Which school is harder to get into?
Coe College is more selective at 64% acceptance vs 92.7% at University of Northern Iowa.
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. Coe College reports a B value grade; University of Northern Iowa reports B.