Duke University vs Durham Technical Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Duke University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $118,448 in 2.4 years versus not at all at Durham Technical Community College, on median earnings of $97,800 vs $36,142 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Duke University | Durham Technical Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $29,612 | $1,664 |
| Total net cost | $118,448 | $3,328 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $97,800 | $36,142 |
| Median debt | $13,000 | $14,750 |
| Payback | 2.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $870,352 | -$247,688 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Duke University vs Durham Technical Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Duke University or Durham Technical Community College a better value?
Duke University. It clears its $118,448 net cost in about 2.4 years versus no clear payback at Durham Technical Community College, on median earnings of $97,800 vs $36,142 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Duke University or Durham Technical Community College?
Durham Technical Community College: $1,664/yr net price after aid versus $29,612/yr at Duke University — a difference of $27,948 a year, or about $115,120 over four years.
Do Duke University or Durham Technical Community College graduates earn more?
Duke University graduates earn a median $97,800 ten years after entry, versus $36,142 at Durham Technical Community College — a $61,658 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.