Head-to-head · 2026
Philander Smith University vs University of the Ozarks
Compare average net price ($14,224 at Philander Smith University; $17,360 at University of the Ozarks), ROI score (6.75 vs 6.39), ten-year median earnings ($38,427 vs $44,384), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Philander Smith University; 59.5% at University of the Ozarks) using federal College Scorecard data. University of the Ozarks has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Philander Smith 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 | Philander Smith University | University of the Ozarks |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.75 ✓ | 6.39 |
| Avg net price | $14,224 ✓ | $17,360 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $38,427 | $44,384 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 59.5% |
| Graduation rate | 30.4% | 51.5% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,736 | $20,875 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 751 | 767 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | — | 1105 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of the Ozarks costs $3,136 more per year than Philander Smith University ($17,360 vs $14,224). University of the Ozarks graduates report $5,957 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,384 vs $38,427). On EduGradify's model that puts Philander Smith University ahead on projected ROI (6.75 vs 6.39, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Philander Smith University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of the Ozarks reports 59.5% acceptance; Philander Smith University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Philander Smith University vs University of the Ozarks, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Philander Smith University or University of the Ozarks the better value?
Philander Smith University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.75 vs 6.39), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Philander Smith University is cheaper — average net price $14,224 per year vs $17,360 at University of the Ozarks. The annual difference of $3,136 adds up to about $12,544 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of the Ozarks reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,384 vs $38,427 at Philander Smith University. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,957.
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. Philander Smith University reports a C value grade; University of the Ozarks reports C.