Degree Dividend
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Columbus State Community College vs Franklin University: which has better ROI?

Public, Columbus OH · vs · Private nonprofit, Columbus OH

The verdict

Franklin University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $100,972 in 28.6 years versus not at all at Columbus State Community College, on median earnings of $51,892 vs $39,435 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureColumbus State Community CollegeFranklin University
Net price / yr$8,400$25,243
Total net cost$33,600$100,972
Median earnings, 10 yrs$39,435$51,892
Median debt$8,749$20,836
Payback28.6 yrs
20-year net return-$212,100-$30,332

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

Columbus State Community College vs Franklin University: frequently asked questions

Is Columbus State Community College or Franklin University a better value?
Franklin University. It clears its $100,972 net cost in about 28.6 years versus no clear payback at Columbus State Community College, on median earnings of $51,892 vs $39,435 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Columbus State Community College or Franklin University?
Columbus State Community College: $8,400/yr net price after aid versus $25,243/yr at Franklin University — a difference of $16,843 a year, or about $67,372 over four years.
Do Columbus State Community College or Franklin University graduates earn more?
Franklin University graduates earn a median $51,892 ten years after entry, versus $39,435 at Columbus State Community College — a $12,457 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.