Head-to-head · 2026
Metropolitan State University vs University of Minnesota-Rochester
Compare average net price ($16,863 at Metropolitan State University; $13,744 at University of Minnesota-Rochester), ROI score (9.59 vs 12.55), ten-year median earnings ($64,705 vs $69,020), and admissions selectivity (98.7% acceptance at Metropolitan State University; 71% at University of Minnesota-Rochester) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Minnesota-Rochester has a 6-1 metric-level edge. University of Minnesota-Rochester 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 | Metropolitan State University | University of Minnesota-Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.59 | 12.55 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,863 | $13,744 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $64,705 | $69,020 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 98.7% | 71% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 43.6% | 57.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $17,100 ✓ | $19,500 |
| Enrollment | 5,616 | 568 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1020 | 1183 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 6 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Metropolitan State University costs $3,119 more per year than University of Minnesota-Rochester ($16,863 vs $13,744). University of Minnesota-Rochester graduates report $4,315 higher median earnings after ten years ($69,020 vs $64,705). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Minnesota-Rochester ahead on projected ROI (12.55 vs 9.59, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Minnesota-Rochester) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Metropolitan State University is accessible at 98.7% acceptance versus 71% (accessible) at University of Minnesota-Rochester.
Frequently asked
Metropolitan State University vs University of Minnesota-Rochester, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Metropolitan State University or University of Minnesota-Rochester the better value?
University of Minnesota-Rochester has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.55 vs 9.59), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Minnesota-Rochester is cheaper — average net price $13,744 per year vs $16,863 at Metropolitan State University. The annual difference of $3,119 adds up to about $12,476 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Minnesota-Rochester reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $69,020 vs $64,705 at Metropolitan State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,315.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Minnesota-Rochester is more selective at 71% acceptance vs 98.7% at Metropolitan 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. Metropolitan State University reports a B value grade; University of Minnesota-Rochester reports A.