Head-to-head · 2026
Murray State University vs University of the Cumberlands
Compare average net price ($9,096 at Murray State University; $14,107 at University of the Cumberlands), ROI score (12.30 vs 7.98), ten-year median earnings ($44,737 vs $45,036), and admissions selectivity (85.7% acceptance at Murray State University; 98.8% at University of the Cumberlands) using federal College Scorecard data. Murray State University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Murray State University 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 | Murray State University | University of the Cumberlands |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.30 ✓ | 7.98 |
| Avg net price | $9,096 ✓ | $14,107 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,737 | $45,036 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 85.7% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 61.3% ✓ | 50.4% |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $14,911 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 6,688 | 6,941 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1133 | — |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of the Cumberlands costs $5,011 more per year than Murray State University ($14,107 vs $9,096). University of the Cumberlands graduates report $299 higher median earnings after ten years ($45,036 vs $44,737). On EduGradify's model that puts Murray State University ahead on projected ROI (12.30 vs 7.98, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Murray State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Murray State University is accessible at 85.7% acceptance versus 98.8% (accessible) at University of the Cumberlands.
Frequently asked
Murray State University vs University of the Cumberlands, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Murray State University or University of the Cumberlands the better value?
Murray State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.30 vs 7.98), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Murray State University is cheaper — average net price $9,096 per year vs $14,107 at University of the Cumberlands. The annual difference of $5,011 adds up to about $20,044 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of the Cumberlands reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $45,036 vs $44,737 at Murray State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $299.
Which school is harder to get into?
Murray State University is more selective at 85.7% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of the Cumberlands.
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. Murray State University reports a A value grade; University of the Cumberlands reports B.