Head-to-head · 2026
Northern Arizona University vs University of Phoenix-Arizona
Compare average net price ($14,158 at Northern Arizona University; $13,520 at University of Phoenix-Arizona), ROI score (9.60 vs 6.98), ten-year median earnings ($54,384 vs $37,752), and admissions context (89.6% at Northern Arizona University; Open / not reported at University of Phoenix-Arizona) using federal College Scorecard data. Northern Arizona University has a 4-1 metric-level edge. Northern Arizona 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 | Northern Arizona University | University of Phoenix-Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.60 ✓ | 6.98 |
| Avg net price | $14,158 | $13,520 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $54,384 ✓ | $37,752 |
| Acceptance rate | 89.6% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 61.3% ✓ | 20.8% |
| Median debt | $19,000 ✓ | $31,553 |
| Enrollment | 22,903 | 85,991 |
| Ownership | Public | Private For-Profit |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Northern Arizona University costs $638 more per year than University of Phoenix-Arizona ($14,158 vs $13,520). Northern Arizona University graduates report $16,632 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,384 vs $37,752). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern Arizona University ahead on projected ROI (9.60 vs 6.98, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Northern Arizona University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Northern Arizona University reports 89.6% acceptance; University of Phoenix-Arizona does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Northern Arizona University vs University of Phoenix-Arizona, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Northern Arizona University or University of Phoenix-Arizona the better value?
Northern Arizona University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.60 vs 6.98), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Phoenix-Arizona is cheaper — average net price $13,520 per year vs $14,158 at Northern Arizona University. The annual difference of $638 adds up to about $2,552 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Northern Arizona University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,384 vs $37,752 at University of Phoenix-Arizona. The annual gap in the federal data is $16,632.
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. Northern Arizona University reports a B value grade; University of Phoenix-Arizona reports C.