Head-to-head · 2026
University of the Cumberlands vs Western Kentucky University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for University of the Cumberlands, 4 for Western Kentucky University — Western Kentucky University 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 | University of the Cumberlands | Western Kentucky University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.98 | 9.98 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,107 | $10,990 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,036 ✓ | $43,889 |
| Acceptance rate | 98.8% | 93.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 50.4% | 55.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $14,911 ✓ | $22,095 |
| Enrollment | 6,941 | 12,155 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 971 |
| Wins | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of the Cumberlands costs $3,117 more per year than Western Kentucky University ($14,107 vs $10,990). University of the Cumberlands graduates report $1,147 higher median earnings after ten years ($45,036 vs $43,889). On EduGradify's model that puts Western Kentucky University ahead on projected ROI (9.98 vs 7.98, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Western Kentucky University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of the Cumberlands is accessible at 98.8% acceptance versus 93.9% (accessible) at Western Kentucky University.
Frequently asked
University of the Cumberlands vs Western Kentucky University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of the Cumberlands or Western Kentucky University the better value?
Western Kentucky University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.98 vs 7.98), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Western Kentucky University is cheaper — average net price $10,990 per year vs $14,107 at University of the Cumberlands. The annual difference of $3,117 adds up to about $12,468 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of the Cumberlands reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $45,036 vs $43,889 at Western Kentucky University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,147.
Which school is harder to get into?
Western Kentucky University is more selective at 93.9% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of the Cumberlands.
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 the Cumberlands reports a B value grade; Western Kentucky University reports B.