Head-to-head · 2026
Donnelly College vs Washburn University
Compare average net price ($11,476 at Donnelly College; $15,280 at Washburn University), ROI score (7.78 vs 8.14), ten-year median earnings ($35,715 vs $49,774), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Donnelly College; Open / not reported at Washburn University) using federal College Scorecard data. Washburn University has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Washburn 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 | Donnelly College | Washburn University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.78 | 8.14 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $11,476 ✓ | $15,280 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $35,715 | $49,774 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 45.8% | 53% ✓ |
| Median debt | $11,842 ✓ | $18,127 |
| Enrollment | 395 | 4,562 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washburn University costs $3,804 more per year than Donnelly College ($15,280 vs $11,476). Washburn University graduates report $14,059 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,774 vs $35,715). On EduGradify's model that puts Washburn University ahead on projected ROI (8.14 vs 7.78, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Washburn University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, neither school reports a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data, so this matchup should lean on price, outcomes and fit instead.
Frequently asked
Donnelly College vs Washburn University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Donnelly College or Washburn University the better value?
Washburn University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.14 vs 7.78), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Donnelly College is cheaper — average net price $11,476 per year vs $15,280 at Washburn University. The annual difference of $3,804 adds up to about $15,216 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washburn University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,774 vs $35,715 at Donnelly College. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,059.
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. Donnelly College reports a B value grade; Washburn University reports B.