Head-to-head · 2026
Jacksonville State University vs University of South Alabama
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Jacksonville State University, 3 for University of South Alabama — Jacksonville State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Jacksonville State University | University of South Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.92 ✓ | 6.99 |
| Avg net price | $14,279 ✓ | $17,648 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,235 | $49,379 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 77.7% | 71% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 54.7% ✓ | 52.7% |
| Median debt | $22,189 ✓ | $24,929 |
| Enrollment | 7,036 | 8,879 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1059 | 1147 ✓ |
| Wins | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Alabama costs $3,369 more per year than Jacksonville State University ($17,648 vs $14,279). University of South Alabama graduates report $4,144 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,379 vs $45,235). On EduGradify's model that puts Jacksonville State University ahead on projected ROI (7.92 vs 6.99, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Jacksonville State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Jacksonville State University is accessible at 77.7% acceptance versus 71% (accessible) at University of South Alabama.
Frequently asked
Jacksonville State University vs University of South Alabama, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Jacksonville State University or University of South Alabama the better value?
Jacksonville State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.92 vs 6.99), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Jacksonville State University is cheaper — average net price $14,279 per year vs $17,648 at University of South Alabama. The annual difference of $3,369 adds up to about $13,476 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of South Alabama reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,379 vs $45,235 at Jacksonville State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,144.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of South Alabama is more selective at 71% acceptance vs 77.7% at Jacksonville 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. Jacksonville State University reports a B value grade; University of South Alabama reports C.