Head-to-head · 2026
Lamar Community College vs University of Northern Colorado
Compare average net price ($9,161 at Lamar Community College; $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado), ROI score (10.57 vs 7.35), ten-year median earnings ($38,719 vs $52,231), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Lamar Community College; 85.9% at University of Northern Colorado) using federal College Scorecard data. Lamar Community College has a 4-1 metric-level edge. Lamar 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 | Lamar Community College | University of Northern Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.57 ✓ | 7.35 |
| Avg net price | $9,161 ✓ | $17,760 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $38,719 | $52,231 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 85.9% |
| Graduation rate | 54.7% ✓ | 51.2% |
| Median debt | $8,750 ✓ | $20,470 |
| Enrollment | 400 | 5,598 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1082 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Northern Colorado costs $8,599 more per year than Lamar Community College ($17,760 vs $9,161). University of Northern Colorado graduates report $13,512 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,231 vs $38,719). On EduGradify's model that puts Lamar Community College ahead on projected ROI (10.57 vs 7.35, 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, University of Northern Colorado reports 85.9% acceptance; Lamar Community College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Lamar Community College vs University of Northern Colorado, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Lamar Community College or University of Northern Colorado the better value?
Lamar Community College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.57 vs 7.35), 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 $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado. The annual difference of $8,599 adds up to about $34,396 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Northern Colorado reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,231 vs $38,719 at Lamar Community College. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,512.
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; University of Northern Colorado reports C.