Head-to-head · 2026
Utah State University vs Western Governors University
Compare average net price ($14,936 at Utah State University; $12,548 at Western Governors University), ROI score (9.04 vs 12.08), ten-year median earnings ($54,022 vs $60,615), and admissions context (92.5% at Utah State University; Open / not reported at Western Governors University) using federal College Scorecard data. Western Governors University has a 4-1 metric-level edge. Western Governors University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Utah State University | Western Governors University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.04 | 12.08 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,936 | $12,548 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $54,022 | $60,615 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 92.5% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 59.1% ✓ | 46.2% |
| Median debt | $14,340 | $11,116 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 20,272 | 155,088 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1187 | — |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Utah State University costs $2,388 more per year than Western Governors University ($14,936 vs $12,548). Western Governors University graduates report $6,593 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,615 vs $54,022). On EduGradify's model that puts Western Governors University ahead on projected ROI (12.08 vs 9.04, 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, Utah State University reports 92.5% acceptance; Western Governors University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Utah State University vs Western Governors University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Utah State University or Western Governors University the better value?
Western Governors University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.08 vs 9.04), 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 $14,936 at Utah State University. The annual difference of $2,388 adds up to about $9,552 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Western Governors University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,615 vs $54,022 at Utah State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,593.
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. Utah State University reports a B value grade; Western Governors University reports A.