Head-to-head · 2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott vs Northern Arizona University
Compare average net price ($40,287 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott; $14,158 at Northern Arizona University), ROI score (5.22 vs 9.60), ten-year median earnings ($84,131 vs $54,384), and admissions selectivity (76.6% acceptance at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott; 89.6% at Northern Arizona University) using federal College Scorecard data. The metric count is evenly split at 3-3. Northern Arizona 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 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Northern Arizona University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 5.22 | 9.60 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $40,287 | $14,158 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $84,131 ✓ | $54,384 |
| Acceptance rate | 76.6% ✓ | 89.6% |
| Graduation rate | 67.8% ✓ | 61.3% |
| Median debt | $23,666 | $19,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 3,218 | 22,903 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1250 | — |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott costs $26,129 more per year than Northern Arizona University ($40,287 vs $14,158). Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott graduates report $29,747 higher median earnings after ten years ($84,131 vs $54,384). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern Arizona University ahead on projected ROI (9.60 vs 5.22, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Northern Arizona University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott is accessible at 76.6% acceptance versus 89.6% (accessible) at Northern Arizona University.
Frequently asked
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott vs Northern Arizona University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott or Northern Arizona University the better value?
Northern Arizona University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.60 vs 5.22), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Northern Arizona University is cheaper — average net price $14,158 per year vs $40,287 at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott. The annual difference of $26,129 adds up to about $104,516 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $84,131 vs $54,384 at Northern Arizona University. The annual gap in the federal data is $29,747.
Which school is harder to get into?
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott is more selective at 76.6% acceptance vs 89.6% at Northern Arizona 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. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reports a D value grade; Northern Arizona University reports B.