Head-to-head · 2026
Washburn University vs Wichita State University
Compare average net price ($15,280 at Washburn University; $13,194 at Wichita State University), ROI score (8.14 vs 9.76), ten-year median earnings ($49,774 vs $51,532), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Washburn University; 94% at Wichita State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Wichita State University has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Wichita State 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 | Washburn University | Wichita State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.14 | 9.76 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $15,280 | $13,194 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $49,774 | $51,532 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 94% |
| Graduation rate | 53% ✓ | 51% |
| Median debt | $18,127 ✓ | $20,500 |
| Enrollment | 4,562 | 10,780 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1092 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Washburn University costs $2,086 more per year than Wichita State University ($15,280 vs $13,194). Wichita State University graduates report $1,758 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,532 vs $49,774). On EduGradify's model that puts Wichita State University ahead on projected ROI (9.76 vs 8.14, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Wichita State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Wichita State University reports 94% acceptance; Washburn University does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Washburn University vs Wichita State University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Washburn University or Wichita State University the better value?
Wichita State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.76 vs 8.14), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Wichita State University is cheaper — average net price $13,194 per year vs $15,280 at Washburn University. The annual difference of $2,086 adds up to about $8,344 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Wichita State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,532 vs $49,774 at Washburn University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,758.
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. Washburn University reports a B value grade; Wichita State University reports B.