Head-to-head · 2026
University of Arizona vs University of Phoenix-Arizona
Compare average net price ($16,674 at University of Arizona; $13,520 at University of Phoenix-Arizona), ROI score (8.99 vs 6.98), ten-year median earnings ($59,979 vs $37,752), and admissions context (86.1% at University of Arizona; Open / not reported at University of Phoenix-Arizona) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Arizona has a 4-1 metric-level edge. University of Arizona 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 | University of Arizona | University of Phoenix-Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.99 ✓ | 6.98 |
| Avg net price | $16,674 | $13,520 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,979 ✓ | $37,752 |
| Acceptance rate | 86.1% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 67.5% ✓ | 20.8% |
| Median debt | $19,620 ✓ | $31,553 |
| Enrollment | 42,537 | 85,991 |
| Ownership | Public | Private For-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1246 | — |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Arizona costs $3,154 more per year than University of Phoenix-Arizona ($16,674 vs $13,520). University of Arizona graduates report $22,227 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,979 vs $37,752). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Arizona ahead on projected ROI (8.99 vs 6.98, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Arizona) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Arizona reports 86.1% acceptance; University of Phoenix-Arizona does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
University of Arizona vs University of Phoenix-Arizona, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Arizona or University of Phoenix-Arizona the better value?
University of Arizona has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.99 vs 6.98), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Phoenix-Arizona is cheaper — average net price $13,520 per year vs $16,674 at University of Arizona. The annual difference of $3,154 adds up to about $12,616 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Arizona reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,979 vs $37,752 at University of Phoenix-Arizona. The annual gap in the federal data is $22,227.
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. University of Arizona reports a B value grade; University of Phoenix-Arizona reports C.