Head-to-head · 2026
Emporia State University vs University of Kansas
Compare average net price ($16,261 at Emporia State University; $18,059 at University of Kansas), ROI score (7.32 vs 8.58), ten-year median earnings ($47,601 vs $61,945), and admissions selectivity (97.7% acceptance at Emporia State University; 93.5% at University of Kansas) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Kansas has a 5-2 metric-level edge. University of Kansas 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 | Emporia State University | University of Kansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.32 | 8.58 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,261 ✓ | $18,059 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,601 | $61,945 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 97.7% | 93.5% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 56.1% | 68.8% ✓ |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $21,000 |
| Enrollment | 2,239 | 21,217 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1120 | 1190 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kansas costs $1,798 more per year than Emporia State University ($18,059 vs $16,261). University of Kansas graduates report $14,344 higher median earnings after ten years ($61,945 vs $47,601). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Kansas ahead on projected ROI (8.58 vs 7.32, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Kansas) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Emporia State University is accessible at 97.7% acceptance versus 93.5% (accessible) at University of Kansas.
Frequently asked
Emporia State University vs University of Kansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Emporia State University or University of Kansas the better value?
University of Kansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.58 vs 7.32), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Emporia State University is cheaper — average net price $16,261 per year vs $18,059 at University of Kansas. The annual difference of $1,798 adds up to about $7,192 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $61,945 vs $47,601 at Emporia State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,344.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Kansas is more selective at 93.5% acceptance vs 97.7% at Emporia State 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. Emporia State University reports a C value grade; University of Kansas reports B.