Head-to-head · 2026
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Compare average net price ($16,550 at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; $11,772 at University of Wisconsin-Parkside), ROI score (8.85 vs 10.86), ten-year median earnings ($58,561 vs $51,129), and admissions selectivity (82.3% acceptance at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire; 75.4% at University of Wisconsin-Parkside) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Wisconsin-Parkside has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Wisconsin-Parkside 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 Wisconsin-Eau Claire | University of Wisconsin-Parkside |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.85 | 10.86 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,550 | $11,772 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $58,561 ✓ | $51,129 |
| Acceptance rate | 82.3% | 75.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 63.8% ✓ | 40.4% |
| Median debt | $20,909 | $20,492 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 8,895 | 2,844 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1220 ✓ | 1090 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire costs $4,778 more per year than University of Wisconsin-Parkside ($16,550 vs $11,772). University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire graduates report $7,432 higher median earnings after ten years ($58,561 vs $51,129). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Wisconsin-Parkside ahead on projected ROI (10.86 vs 8.85, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Wisconsin-Parkside) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is accessible at 82.3% acceptance versus 75.4% (accessible) at University of Wisconsin-Parkside.
Frequently asked
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire or University of Wisconsin-Parkside the better value?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.86 vs 8.85), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside is cheaper — average net price $11,772 per year vs $16,550 at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The annual difference of $4,778 adds up to about $19,112 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $58,561 vs $51,129 at University of Wisconsin-Parkside. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,432.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Wisconsin-Parkside is more selective at 75.4% acceptance vs 82.3% at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
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 Wisconsin-Eau Claire reports a B value grade; University of Wisconsin-Parkside reports A.