Head-to-head · 2026
Metropolitan State University of Denver vs Pikes Peak State College
Compare average net price ($15,327 at Metropolitan State University of Denver; $6,007 at Pikes Peak State College), ROI score (8.50 vs 16.98), ten-year median earnings ($52,093 vs $40,796), and admissions context (98.8% at Metropolitan State University of Denver; Open / not reported at Pikes Peak State College) using federal College Scorecard data. Pikes Peak State College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Pikes Peak State 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 | Metropolitan State University of Denver | Pikes Peak State College |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.50 | 16.98 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $15,327 | $6,007 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $52,093 ✓ | $40,796 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.8% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 31.5% ✓ | 20.6% |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $9,000 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 15,002 | 9,595 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1019 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Metropolitan State University of Denver costs $9,320 more per year than Pikes Peak State College ($15,327 vs $6,007). Metropolitan State University of Denver graduates report $11,297 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,093 vs $40,796). On EduGradify's model that puts Pikes Peak State College ahead on projected ROI (16.98 vs 8.50, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Pikes Peak State 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; Pikes Peak State College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Metropolitan State University of Denver vs Pikes Peak State College, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Metropolitan State University of Denver or Pikes Peak State College the better value?
Pikes Peak State College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (16.98 vs 8.50), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Pikes Peak State College is cheaper — average net price $6,007 per year vs $15,327 at Metropolitan State University of Denver. The annual difference of $9,320 adds up to about $37,280 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Metropolitan State University of Denver reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,093 vs $40,796 at Pikes Peak State College. The annual gap in the federal data is $11,297.
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. Metropolitan State University of Denver reports a B value grade; Pikes Peak State College reports A+.