Head-to-head · 2026
University of Northern Colorado vs Western Colorado University
Compare average net price ($17,760 at University of Northern Colorado; $16,425 at Western Colorado University), ROI score (7.35 vs 7.13), ten-year median earnings ($52,231 vs $46,833), and admissions selectivity (85.9% acceptance at University of Northern Colorado; 99.7% at Western Colorado University) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Northern Colorado has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Northern Colorado 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 Northern Colorado | Western Colorado University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.35 ✓ | 7.13 |
| Avg net price | $17,760 | $16,425 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $52,231 ✓ | $46,833 |
| Acceptance rate | 85.9% ✓ | 99.7% |
| Graduation rate | 51.2% ✓ | 50.5% |
| Median debt | $20,470 | $20,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 5,598 | 1,586 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1082 | 1230 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Northern Colorado costs $1,335 more per year than Western Colorado University ($17,760 vs $16,425). University of Northern Colorado graduates report $5,398 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,231 vs $46,833). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Northern Colorado ahead on projected ROI (7.35 vs 7.13, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Northern Colorado) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Northern Colorado is accessible at 85.9% acceptance versus 99.7% (accessible) at Western Colorado University.
Frequently asked
University of Northern Colorado vs Western Colorado University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Northern Colorado or Western Colorado University the better value?
University of Northern Colorado has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.35 vs 7.13), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Western Colorado University is cheaper — average net price $16,425 per year vs $17,760 at University of Northern Colorado. The annual difference of $1,335 adds up to about $5,340 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Northern Colorado reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,231 vs $46,833 at Western Colorado University. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,398.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Northern Colorado is more selective at 85.9% acceptance vs 99.7% at Western Colorado 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. University of Northern Colorado reports a C value grade; Western Colorado University reports C.