Head-to-head · 2026
Independence Community College vs Washburn University
Compare average net price ($3,265 at Independence Community College; $15,280 at Washburn University), ROI score (26.75 vs 8.14), ten-year median earnings ($34,941 vs $49,774), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Independence Community College; Open / not reported at Washburn University) using federal College Scorecard data. Independence Community College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Independence Community College 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 | Independence Community College | Washburn University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 26.75 ✓ | 8.14 |
| Avg net price | $3,265 ✓ | $15,280 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $34,941 | $49,774 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 26.3% | 53% ✓ |
| Median debt | $6,115 ✓ | $18,127 |
| Enrollment | 486 | 4,562 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washburn University costs $12,015 more per year than Independence Community College ($15,280 vs $3,265). Washburn University graduates report $14,833 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,774 vs $34,941). On EduGradify's model that puts Independence Community College ahead on projected ROI (26.75 vs 8.14, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Independence Community College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, neither school reports a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data, so this matchup should lean on price, outcomes and fit instead.
Frequently asked
Independence Community College vs Washburn University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Independence Community College or Washburn University the better value?
Independence Community College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (26.75 vs 8.14), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Independence Community College is cheaper — average net price $3,265 per year vs $15,280 at Washburn University. The annual difference of $12,015 adds up to about $48,060 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Washburn University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,774 vs $34,941 at Independence Community College. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,833.
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. Independence Community College reports a A+ value grade; Washburn University reports B.