Head-to-head · 2026
Metropolitan State University vs North Hennepin Community College
Compare average net price ($16,863 at Metropolitan State University; $12,186 at North Hennepin Community College), ROI score (9.59 vs 10.49), ten-year median earnings ($64,705 vs $51,142), and admissions context (98.7% at Metropolitan State University; Open / not reported at North Hennepin Community College) using federal College Scorecard data. North Hennepin Community College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. North Hennepin 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 | Metropolitan State University | North Hennepin Community College |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.59 | 10.49 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,863 | $12,186 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $64,705 ✓ | $51,142 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.7% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 43.6% ✓ | 22.4% |
| Median debt | $17,100 | $14,750 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 5,616 | 3,451 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1020 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Metropolitan State University costs $4,677 more per year than North Hennepin Community College ($16,863 vs $12,186). Metropolitan State University graduates report $13,563 higher median earnings after ten years ($64,705 vs $51,142). On EduGradify's model that puts North Hennepin Community College ahead on projected ROI (10.49 vs 9.59, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (North Hennepin Community College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Metropolitan State University reports 98.7% acceptance; North Hennepin Community College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Metropolitan State University vs North Hennepin Community College, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Metropolitan State University or North Hennepin Community College the better value?
North Hennepin Community College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.49 vs 9.59), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
North Hennepin Community College is cheaper — average net price $12,186 per year vs $16,863 at Metropolitan State University. The annual difference of $4,677 adds up to about $18,708 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Metropolitan State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $64,705 vs $51,142 at North Hennepin Community College. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,563.
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 reports a B value grade; North Hennepin Community College reports B.