Head-to-head · 2026
University of Utah vs Western Governors University
Compare average net price ($16,200 at University of Utah; $12,548 at Western Governors University), ROI score (10.37 vs 12.08), ten-year median earnings ($67,170 vs $60,615), and admissions context (86% at University of Utah; Open / not reported at Western Governors University) using federal College Scorecard data. Western Governors University has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Western Governors 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 | University of Utah | Western Governors University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.37 | 12.08 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,200 | $12,548 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $67,170 ✓ | $60,615 |
| Acceptance rate | 86% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 65.1% ✓ | 46.2% |
| Median debt | $19,000 | $11,116 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 27,264 | 155,088 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1257 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Utah costs $3,652 more per year than Western Governors University ($16,200 vs $12,548). University of Utah graduates report $6,555 higher median earnings after ten years ($67,170 vs $60,615). On EduGradify's model that puts Western Governors University ahead on projected ROI (12.08 vs 10.37, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Western Governors University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Utah reports 86% acceptance; Western Governors University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
University of Utah vs Western Governors University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Utah or Western Governors University the better value?
Western Governors University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.08 vs 10.37), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Western Governors University is cheaper — average net price $12,548 per year vs $16,200 at University of Utah. The annual difference of $3,652 adds up to about $14,608 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Utah reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $67,170 vs $60,615 at Western Governors University. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,555.
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 Utah reports a B value grade; Western Governors University reports A.