Head-to-head · 2026
Fort Hays State University vs Washburn University
Compare average net price ($12,569 at Fort Hays State University; $15,280 at Washburn University), ROI score (9.73 vs 8.14), ten-year median earnings ($48,928 vs $49,774), and admissions context (90.3% at Fort Hays State University; Open / not reported at Washburn University) using federal College Scorecard data. Washburn University has a narrow 3-2 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 | Washburn University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.73 ✓ | 8.14 |
| Avg net price | $12,569 ✓ | $15,280 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $48,928 | $49,774 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 90.3% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 47.7% | 53% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,000 | $18,127 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 9,733 | 4,562 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1089 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washburn University costs $2,711 more per year than Fort Hays State University ($15,280 vs $12,569). Washburn University graduates report $846 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,774 vs $48,928). On EduGradify's model that puts Fort Hays State University ahead on projected ROI (9.73 vs 8.14, 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 reports 90.3% acceptance; Washburn University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Fort Hays State University vs Washburn University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Fort Hays State University or Washburn University the better value?
Fort Hays State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.73 vs 8.14), 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 $15,280 at Washburn University. The annual difference of $2,711 adds up to about $10,844 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washburn University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,774 vs $48,928 at Fort Hays State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $846.
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; Washburn University reports B.