Head-to-head · 2026
University of Utah vs Western Governors University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for University of Utah, 3 for Western Governors University — Western Governors 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 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 | — |
| Wins | 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.

