Carnegie Mellon University vs Duquesne University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Carnegie Mellon University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $127,776 in 1.9 years versus 5.7 years at Duquesne University, on median earnings of $114,862 vs $74,742 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Carnegie Mellon University | Duquesne University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $31,944 | $37,730 |
| Total net cost | $127,776 | $150,920 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $114,862 | $74,742 |
| Median debt | $21,750 | $26,244 |
| Payback | 1.9 yrs | 5.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $1,202,264 | $376,720 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Carnegie Mellon University vs Duquesne University: frequently asked questions
Is Carnegie Mellon University or Duquesne University a better value?
Carnegie Mellon University. It clears its $127,776 net cost in about 1.9 years versus 5.7 years at Duquesne University, on median earnings of $114,862 vs $74,742 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Carnegie Mellon University or Duquesne University?
Carnegie Mellon University: $31,944/yr net price after aid versus $37,730/yr at Duquesne University — a difference of $5,786 a year, or about $23,144 over four years.
Do Carnegie Mellon University or Duquesne University graduates earn more?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn a median $114,862 ten years after entry, versus $74,742 at Duquesne University — a $40,120 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.