Head-to-head · 2026
Marshall University vs Shepherd University
Compare average net price ($7,502 at Marshall University; $11,363 at Shepherd University), ROI score (15.45 vs 10.86), ten-year median earnings ($46,354 vs $49,358), and admissions selectivity (95.7% acceptance at Marshall University; 96.8% at Shepherd University) using federal College Scorecard data. Marshall University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Marshall University 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 | Marshall University | Shepherd University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 15.45 ✓ | 10.86 |
| Avg net price | $7,502 ✓ | $11,363 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,354 | $49,358 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 95.7% ✓ | 96.8% |
| Graduation rate | 51.2% ✓ | 51% |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $21,600 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 7,266 | 2,344 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1061 ✓ | 1034 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Shepherd University costs $3,861 more per year than Marshall University ($11,363 vs $7,502). Shepherd University graduates report $3,004 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,358 vs $46,354). On EduGradify's model that puts Marshall University ahead on projected ROI (15.45 vs 10.86, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Marshall University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Marshall University is accessible at 95.7% acceptance versus 96.8% (accessible) at Shepherd University.
Frequently asked
Marshall University vs Shepherd University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Marshall University or Shepherd University the better value?
Marshall University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (15.45 vs 10.86), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Marshall University is cheaper — average net price $7,502 per year vs $11,363 at Shepherd University. The annual difference of $3,861 adds up to about $15,444 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Shepherd University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,358 vs $46,354 at Marshall University. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,004.
Which school is harder to get into?
Marshall University is more selective at 95.7% acceptance vs 96.8% at Shepherd 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. Marshall University reports a A value grade; Shepherd University reports A.