Head-to-head · 2026
Purdue University-Main Campus vs Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses
Compare average net price ($14,600 at Purdue University-Main Campus; $15,788 at Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses), ROI score (12.40 vs 9.05), ten-year median earnings ($72,424 vs $57,165), and admissions selectivity (49.9% acceptance at Purdue University-Main Campus; 39.9% at Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses) using federal College Scorecard data. Purdue University-Main Campus has a 5-1 metric-level edge. Purdue University-Main Campus has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Purdue University-Main Campus | Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.40 ✓ | 9.05 |
| Avg net price | $14,600 ✓ | $15,788 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $72,424 ✓ | $57,165 |
| Acceptance rate | 49.9% | 39.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 83.1% ✓ | 0% |
| Median debt | $19,500 ✓ | $25,000 |
| Enrollment | 44,503 | 607 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1364 | — |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses costs $1,188 more per year than Purdue University-Main Campus ($15,788 vs $14,600). Purdue University-Main Campus graduates report $15,259 higher median earnings after ten years ($72,424 vs $57,165). On EduGradify's model that puts Purdue University-Main Campus ahead on projected ROI (12.40 vs 9.05, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Purdue University-Main Campus) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Purdue University-Main Campus is selective at 49.9% acceptance versus 39.9% (selective) at Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses.
Frequently asked
Purdue University-Main Campus vs Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Purdue University-Main Campus or Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses the better value?
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.40 vs 9.05), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Purdue University-Main Campus is cheaper — average net price $14,600 per year vs $15,788 at Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses. The annual difference of $1,188 adds up to about $4,752 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Purdue University-Main Campus reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $72,424 vs $57,165 at Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses. The annual gap in the federal data is $15,259.
Which school is harder to get into?
Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses is more selective at 39.9% acceptance vs 49.9% at Purdue University-Main Campus.
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. Purdue University-Main Campus reports a A value grade; Trine University-Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses reports B.