Eastern Kentucky University vs Northern Kentucky University
A side-by-side look at cost, graduate earnings, debt and return on investment. The better figure in each row is highlighted.
| Eastern Kentucky University Richmond, KY | Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights, KY | |
|---|---|---|
| ROI verdict | Poor return | Strong return |
| 10-year ROI | -7% | +173% |
| 10-year net gain | $-3,789 | $71,215 |
| Median earnings (5 yr) | $49,857 | $56,236 |
| Median earnings (1 yr) | $40,047 | $44,975 |
| Average net price | $11,040 | $8,191 |
| Median debt | $22,500 | $23,000 |
| Break-even | 10.8 yrs | 3.7 yrs |
| Graduation rate | 50% | 52% |
| Admission rate | 78% | 68% |
Eastern Kentucky University
Poor return
$-3,789 over 10 years
On these figures the cost and debt outweigh the earnings premium.
Northern Kentucky University
Strong return
+$71,215 over 10 years
Graduate earnings clearly outpace the cost and debt — this degree pays back quickly.
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard. ROI is computed by Degree Return — see how. Read the methodology. Data as of 2024.