Degree Dividend
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Baylor University vs McLennan Community College: which has better ROI?

Private nonprofit, Waco TX · vs · Public, Waco TX

The verdict

Baylor University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $164,416 in 9.4 years versus not at all at McLennan Community College, on median earnings of $65,793 vs $39,163 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureBaylor UniversityMcLennan Community College
Net price / yr$41,104$5,051
Total net cost$164,416$10,102
Median earnings, 10 yrs$65,793$39,163
Median debt$23,000$10,500
Payback9.4 yrs
20-year net return$184,244-$194,042

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.

Baylor University vs McLennan Community College: frequently asked questions

Is Baylor University or McLennan Community College a better value?
Baylor University. It clears its $164,416 net cost in about 9.4 years versus no clear payback at McLennan Community College, on median earnings of $65,793 vs $39,163 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Baylor University or McLennan Community College?
McLennan Community College: $5,051/yr net price after aid versus $41,104/yr at Baylor University — a difference of $36,053 a year, or about $154,314 over four years.
Do Baylor University or McLennan Community College graduates earn more?
Baylor University graduates earn a median $65,793 ten years after entry, versus $39,163 at McLennan Community College — a $26,630 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.