Head-to-head · 2026
Colorado School of Mines vs University of Northern Colorado
Compare average net price ($28,690 at Colorado School of Mines; $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado), ROI score (8.48 vs 7.35), ten-year median earnings ($97,335 vs $52,231), and admissions selectivity (60.7% acceptance at Colorado School of Mines; 85.9% at University of Northern Colorado) using federal College Scorecard data. Colorado School of Mines has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Colorado School of Mines 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 | Colorado School of Mines | University of Northern Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.48 ✓ | 7.35 |
| Avg net price | $28,690 | $17,760 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $97,335 ✓ | $52,231 |
| Acceptance rate | 60.7% ✓ | 85.9% |
| Graduation rate | 81.7% ✓ | 51.2% |
| Median debt | $23,000 | $20,470 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 6,155 | 5,598 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1412 ✓ | 1082 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Colorado School of Mines costs $10,930 more per year than University of Northern Colorado ($28,690 vs $17,760). Colorado School of Mines graduates report $45,104 higher median earnings after ten years ($97,335 vs $52,231). On EduGradify's model that puts Colorado School of Mines ahead on projected ROI (8.48 vs 7.35, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Colorado School of Mines) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Colorado School of Mines is accessible at 60.7% acceptance versus 85.9% (accessible) at University of Northern Colorado.
Frequently asked
Colorado School of Mines vs University of Northern Colorado, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Colorado School of Mines or University of Northern Colorado the better value?
Colorado School of Mines has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.48 vs 7.35), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Northern Colorado is cheaper — average net price $17,760 per year vs $28,690 at Colorado School of Mines. The annual difference of $10,930 adds up to about $43,720 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Colorado School of Mines reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $97,335 vs $52,231 at University of Northern Colorado. The annual gap in the federal data is $45,104.
Which school is harder to get into?
Colorado School of Mines is more selective at 60.7% acceptance vs 85.9% at University of Northern Colorado.
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. Colorado School of Mines reports a B value grade; University of Northern Colorado reports C.