Head-to-head · 2026
Lamar Community College vs Metropolitan State University of Denver
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Lamar Community College, 1 for Metropolitan State University of Denver — Lamar Community College 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 | Lamar Community College | Metropolitan State University of Denver |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.57 ✓ | 8.50 |
| Avg net price | $9,161 ✓ | $15,327 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $38,719 | $52,093 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 54.7% ✓ | 31.5% |
| Median debt | $8,750 ✓ | $21,500 |
| Enrollment | 400 | 15,002 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1019 |
| Wins | 4 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Metropolitan State University of Denver costs $6,166 more per year than Lamar Community College ($15,327 vs $9,161). Metropolitan State University of Denver graduates report $13,374 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,093 vs $38,719). On EduGradify's model that puts Lamar Community College ahead on projected ROI (10.57 vs 8.50, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Lamar Community College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Metropolitan State University of Denver reports 98.8% acceptance; Lamar Community College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Lamar Community College vs Metropolitan State University of Denver, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Lamar Community College or Metropolitan State University of Denver the better value?
Lamar Community College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.57 vs 8.50), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Lamar Community College is cheaper — average net price $9,161 per year vs $15,327 at Metropolitan State University of Denver. The annual difference of $6,166 adds up to about $24,664 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Metropolitan State University of Denver reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,093 vs $38,719 at Lamar Community College. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,374.
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. Lamar Community College reports a B value grade; Metropolitan State University of Denver reports B.