Head-to-head · 2026
Metropolitan State University of Denver vs University of Northern Colorado
Compare average net price ($15,327 at Metropolitan State University of Denver; $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado), ROI score (8.50 vs 7.35), ten-year median earnings ($52,093 vs $52,231), and admissions selectivity (98.8% acceptance at Metropolitan State University of Denver; 85.9% at University of Northern Colorado) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Northern Colorado has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Metropolitan State University of Denver 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 | University of Northern Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.50 ✓ | 7.35 |
| Avg net price | $15,327 ✓ | $17,760 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $52,093 | $52,231 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 98.8% | 85.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 31.5% | 51.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $20,470 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 15,002 | 5,598 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1019 | 1082 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Northern Colorado costs $2,433 more per year than Metropolitan State University of Denver ($17,760 vs $15,327). University of Northern Colorado graduates report $138 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,231 vs $52,093). On EduGradify's model that puts Metropolitan State University of Denver ahead on projected ROI (8.50 vs 7.35, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Metropolitan State University of Denver) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Metropolitan State University of Denver is accessible at 98.8% acceptance versus 85.9% (accessible) at University of Northern Colorado.
Frequently asked
Metropolitan State University of Denver vs University of Northern Colorado, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Metropolitan State University of Denver or University of Northern Colorado the better value?
Metropolitan State University of Denver has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.50 vs 7.35), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Metropolitan State University of Denver is cheaper — average net price $15,327 per year vs $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado. The annual difference of $2,433 adds up to about $9,732 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Northern Colorado reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,231 vs $52,093 at Metropolitan State University of Denver. The annual gap in the federal data is $138.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Northern Colorado is more selective at 85.9% acceptance vs 98.8% at Metropolitan State University of Denver.
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; University of Northern Colorado reports C.