Head-to-head · 2026
The Catholic University of America vs Trinity Washington University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for The Catholic University of America, 2 for Trinity Washington University — The Catholic University of America has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | The Catholic University of America | Trinity Washington University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.19 | 14.46 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $29,561 | $9,302 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $73,250 ✓ | $53,804 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.8% ✓ | 99.5% |
| Graduation rate | 79.5% ✓ | 49.3% |
| Median debt | $26,000 ✓ | $28,250 |
| Enrollment | 3,154 | 1,414 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | — | — |
| Wins | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
The Catholic University of America costs $20,259 more per year than Trinity Washington University ($29,561 vs $9,302). The Catholic University of America graduates report $19,446 higher median earnings after ten years ($73,250 vs $53,804). On EduGradify's model that puts Trinity Washington University ahead on projected ROI (14.46 vs 6.19, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Trinity Washington University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, The Catholic University of America is accessible at 82.8% acceptance versus 99.5% (accessible) at Trinity Washington University.
Frequently asked
The Catholic University of America vs Trinity Washington University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is The Catholic University of America or Trinity Washington University the better value?
Trinity Washington University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (14.46 vs 6.19), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Trinity Washington University is cheaper — average net price $9,302 per year vs $29,561 at The Catholic University of America. The annual difference of $20,259 adds up to about $81,036 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
The Catholic University of America reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $73,250 vs $53,804 at Trinity Washington University. The annual gap in the federal data is $19,446.
Which school is harder to get into?
The Catholic University of America is more selective at 82.8% acceptance vs 99.5% at Trinity Washington University.
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. The Catholic University of America reports a C value grade; Trinity Washington University reports A.