Head-to-head · 2026
Emporia State University vs Washburn University
Compare average net price ($16,261 at Emporia State University; $15,280 at Washburn University), ROI score (7.32 vs 8.14), ten-year median earnings ($47,601 vs $49,774), and admissions context (97.7% at Emporia State University; Open / not reported at Washburn University) using federal College Scorecard data. Washburn University has a 4-1 metric-level edge. Washburn University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Washburn University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.32 | 8.14 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,261 | $15,280 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,601 | $49,774 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 97.7% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 56.1% ✓ | 53% |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $18,127 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,239 | 4,562 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1120 | — |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Emporia State University costs $981 more per year than Washburn University ($16,261 vs $15,280). Washburn University graduates report $2,173 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,774 vs $47,601). On EduGradify's model that puts Washburn University ahead on projected ROI (8.14 vs 7.32, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Washburn University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Emporia State University reports 97.7% acceptance; Washburn University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Emporia State University vs Washburn University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Emporia State University or Washburn University the better value?
Washburn University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.14 vs 7.32), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Washburn University is cheaper — average net price $15,280 per year vs $16,261 at Emporia State University. The annual difference of $981 adds up to about $3,924 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washburn University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,774 vs $47,601 at Emporia State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,173.
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; Washburn University reports B.