Head-to-head · 2026
Mount Mercy University vs University of Northern Iowa
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Mount Mercy University, 4 for University of Northern Iowa — University of Northern Iowa has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Mount Mercy University | University of Northern Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.54 | 8.68 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $20,168 | $15,901 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $60,787 ✓ | $55,177 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.5% ✓ | 92.7% |
| Graduation rate | 57.7% | 67.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,699 | $19,691 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,107 | 7,529 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1122 |
| Wins | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Mount Mercy University costs $4,267 more per year than University of Northern Iowa ($20,168 vs $15,901). Mount Mercy University graduates report $5,610 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,787 vs $55,177). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Northern Iowa ahead on projected ROI (8.68 vs 7.54, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Northern Iowa) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Mount Mercy University is accessible at 82.5% acceptance versus 92.7% (accessible) at University of Northern Iowa.
Frequently asked
Mount Mercy University vs University of Northern Iowa, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Mount Mercy University or University of Northern Iowa the better value?
University of Northern Iowa has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.68 vs 7.54), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Northern Iowa is cheaper — average net price $15,901 per year vs $20,168 at Mount Mercy University. The annual difference of $4,267 adds up to about $17,068 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Mount Mercy University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,787 vs $55,177 at University of Northern Iowa. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,610.
Which school is harder to get into?
Mount Mercy University is more selective at 82.5% acceptance vs 92.7% at University of Northern Iowa.
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. Mount Mercy University reports a B value grade; University of Northern Iowa reports B.