Head-to-head · 2026
McNeese State University vs University of New Orleans
Compare average net price ($12,493 at McNeese State University; $12,384 at University of New Orleans), ROI score (9.30 vs 9.66), ten-year median earnings ($46,453 vs $47,872), and admissions selectivity (78.3% acceptance at McNeese State University; 74.3% at University of New Orleans) using federal College Scorecard data. University of New Orleans has a 5-2 metric-level edge. University of New Orleans has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus 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 | McNeese State University | University of New Orleans |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.30 | 9.66 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $12,493 | $12,384 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,453 | $47,872 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 78.3% | 74.3% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 47% ✓ | 38% |
| Median debt | $23,000 | $18,750 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 5,005 | 4,638 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1087 ✓ | 1052 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
McNeese State University costs $109 more per year than University of New Orleans ($12,493 vs $12,384). University of New Orleans graduates report $1,419 higher median earnings after ten years ($47,872 vs $46,453). On EduGradify's model that puts University of New Orleans ahead on projected ROI (9.66 vs 9.30, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of New Orleans) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, McNeese State University is accessible at 78.3% acceptance versus 74.3% (accessible) at University of New Orleans.
Frequently asked
McNeese State University vs University of New Orleans, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is McNeese State University or University of New Orleans the better value?
University of New Orleans has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.66 vs 9.30), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of New Orleans is cheaper — average net price $12,384 per year vs $12,493 at McNeese State University. The annual difference of $109 adds up to about $436 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of New Orleans reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $47,872 vs $46,453 at McNeese State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,419.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of New Orleans is more selective at 74.3% acceptance vs 78.3% at McNeese 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. McNeese State University reports a B value grade; University of New Orleans reports B.