Head-to-head · 2026
Pittsburg State University vs University of Kansas
Compare average net price ($15,784 at Pittsburg State University; $18,059 at University of Kansas), ROI score (8.01 vs 8.58), ten-year median earnings ($50,579 vs $61,945), and admissions selectivity (89.4% acceptance at Pittsburg State University; 93.5% at University of Kansas) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Kansas has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Kansas 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 | Pittsburg State University | University of Kansas |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.01 | 8.58 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $15,784 ✓ | $18,059 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,579 | $61,945 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 89.4% ✓ | 93.5% |
| Graduation rate | 56.6% | 68.8% ✓ |
| Median debt | $18,969 ✓ | $21,000 |
| Enrollment | 4,210 | 21,217 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1050 | 1190 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kansas costs $2,275 more per year than Pittsburg State University ($18,059 vs $15,784). University of Kansas graduates report $11,366 higher median earnings after ten years ($61,945 vs $50,579). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Kansas ahead on projected ROI (8.58 vs 8.01, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Kansas) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Pittsburg State University is accessible at 89.4% acceptance versus 93.5% (accessible) at University of Kansas.
Frequently asked
Pittsburg State University vs University of Kansas, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Pittsburg State University or University of Kansas the better value?
University of Kansas has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.58 vs 8.01), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Pittsburg State University is cheaper — average net price $15,784 per year vs $18,059 at University of Kansas. The annual difference of $2,275 adds up to about $9,100 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kansas reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $61,945 vs $50,579 at Pittsburg State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $11,366.
Which school is harder to get into?
Pittsburg State University is more selective at 89.4% acceptance vs 93.5% at University of Kansas.
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. Pittsburg State University reports a B value grade; University of Kansas reports B.