Head-to-head · 2026
John Brown University vs Philander Smith University
Compare average net price ($20,397 at John Brown University; $14,224 at Philander Smith University), ROI score (6.61 vs 6.75), ten-year median earnings ($53,907 vs $38,427), and admissions context (76.1% at John Brown University; Open / not reported at Philander Smith University) using federal College Scorecard data. John Brown University has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. The ROI scores are close, so aid letters, program fit, graduation rate and debt should decide the better 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 | John Brown University | Philander Smith University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.61 | 6.75 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $20,397 | $14,224 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,907 ✓ | $38,427 |
| Acceptance rate | 76.1% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 71.8% ✓ | 30.4% |
| Median debt | $21,250 ✓ | $24,736 |
| Enrollment | 1,471 | 751 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1195 | — |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
John Brown University costs $6,173 more per year than Philander Smith University ($20,397 vs $14,224). John Brown University graduates report $15,480 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,907 vs $38,427). On EduGradify's model that puts Philander Smith University ahead on projected ROI (6.75 vs 6.61, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Philander Smith University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, John Brown University reports 76.1% acceptance; Philander Smith University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
John Brown University vs Philander Smith University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is John Brown University or Philander Smith University the better value?
Philander Smith University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.75 vs 6.61), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Philander Smith University is cheaper — average net price $14,224 per year vs $20,397 at John Brown University. The annual difference of $6,173 adds up to about $24,692 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
John Brown University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,907 vs $38,427 at Philander Smith University. The annual gap in the federal data is $15,480.
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. John Brown University reports a C value grade; Philander Smith University reports C.