Head-to-head · 2026
Emporia State University vs Wichita State University
Compare average net price ($16,261 at Emporia State University; $13,194 at Wichita State University), ROI score (7.32 vs 9.76), ten-year median earnings ($47,601 vs $51,532), and admissions selectivity (97.7% acceptance at Emporia State University; 94% at Wichita State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Wichita State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Wichita State 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 | Wichita State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.32 | 9.76 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,261 | $13,194 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,601 | $51,532 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 97.7% | 94% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 56.1% ✓ | 51% |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $20,500 |
| Enrollment | 2,239 | 10,780 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1120 ✓ | 1092 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Emporia State University costs $3,067 more per year than Wichita State University ($16,261 vs $13,194). Wichita State University graduates report $3,931 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,532 vs $47,601). On EduGradify's model that puts Wichita State University ahead on projected ROI (9.76 vs 7.32, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Wichita State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Emporia State University is accessible at 97.7% acceptance versus 94% (accessible) at Wichita State University.
Frequently asked
Emporia State University vs Wichita State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Emporia State University or Wichita State University the better value?
Wichita State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.76 vs 7.32), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Wichita State University is cheaper — average net price $13,194 per year vs $16,261 at Emporia State University. The annual difference of $3,067 adds up to about $12,268 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Wichita State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,532 vs $47,601 at Emporia State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,931.
Which school is harder to get into?
Wichita State University is more selective at 94% 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; Wichita State University reports B.