Head-to-head · 2026
Southern Utah University vs University of Utah
Compare average net price ($10,462 at Southern Utah University; $16,200 at University of Utah), ROI score (12.02 vs 10.37), ten-year median earnings ($50,296 vs $67,170), and admissions selectivity (81.8% acceptance at Southern Utah University; 86% at University of Utah) using federal College Scorecard data. Southern Utah University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Southern Utah 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 | Southern Utah University | University of Utah |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.02 ✓ | 10.37 |
| Avg net price | $10,462 ✓ | $16,200 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,296 | $67,170 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 81.8% ✓ | 86% |
| Graduation rate | 60.7% | 65.1% ✓ |
| Median debt | $12,500 ✓ | $19,000 |
| Enrollment | 9,289 | 27,264 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1257 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Utah costs $5,738 more per year than Southern Utah University ($16,200 vs $10,462). University of Utah graduates report $16,874 higher median earnings after ten years ($67,170 vs $50,296). On EduGradify's model that puts Southern Utah University ahead on projected ROI (12.02 vs 10.37, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Southern Utah University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Southern Utah University is accessible at 81.8% acceptance versus 86% (accessible) at University of Utah.
Frequently asked
Southern Utah University vs University of Utah, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Southern Utah University or University of Utah the better value?
Southern Utah University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.02 vs 10.37), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Southern Utah University is cheaper — average net price $10,462 per year vs $16,200 at University of Utah. The annual difference of $5,738 adds up to about $22,952 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Utah reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $67,170 vs $50,296 at Southern Utah University. The annual gap in the federal data is $16,874.
Which school is harder to get into?
Southern Utah University is more selective at 81.8% acceptance vs 86% at University of Utah.
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. Southern Utah University reports a A value grade; University of Utah reports B.