Head-to-head · 2026
Fort Hays State University vs Pittsburg State University
Compare average net price ($12,569 at Fort Hays State University; $15,784 at Pittsburg State University), ROI score (9.73 vs 8.01), ten-year median earnings ($48,928 vs $50,579), and admissions selectivity (90.3% acceptance at Fort Hays State University; 89.4% at Pittsburg State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Pittsburg State University has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Fort Hays State 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 | Fort Hays State University | Pittsburg State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.73 ✓ | 8.01 |
| Avg net price | $12,569 ✓ | $15,784 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $48,928 | $50,579 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 90.3% | 89.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 47.7% | 56.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,000 | $18,969 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 9,733 | 4,210 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1089 ✓ | 1050 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Pittsburg State University costs $3,215 more per year than Fort Hays State University ($15,784 vs $12,569). Pittsburg State University graduates report $1,651 higher median earnings after ten years ($50,579 vs $48,928). On EduGradify's model that puts Fort Hays State University ahead on projected ROI (9.73 vs 8.01, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Fort Hays State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Fort Hays State University is accessible at 90.3% acceptance versus 89.4% (accessible) at Pittsburg State University.
Frequently asked
Fort Hays State University vs Pittsburg State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Fort Hays State University or Pittsburg State University the better value?
Fort Hays State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.73 vs 8.01), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Fort Hays State University is cheaper — average net price $12,569 per year vs $15,784 at Pittsburg State University. The annual difference of $3,215 adds up to about $12,860 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Pittsburg State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $50,579 vs $48,928 at Fort Hays State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,651.
Which school is harder to get into?
Pittsburg State University is more selective at 89.4% acceptance vs 90.3% at Fort Hays 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. Fort Hays State University reports a B value grade; Pittsburg State University reports B.