Ivy Tech Community College vs Butler University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Butler University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $144,164 in 5 years versus not at all at Ivy Tech Community College, on median earnings of $77,235 vs $37,186 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Ivy Tech Community College | Butler University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $7,258 | $36,041 |
| Total net cost | $29,032 | $144,164 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $37,186 | $77,235 |
| Median debt | $10,727 | $26,000 |
| Payback | — | 5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$252,512 | $433,336 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Ivy Tech Community College vs Butler University: frequently asked questions
Is Ivy Tech Community College or Butler University a better value?
Butler University. It clears its $144,164 net cost in about 5 years versus no clear payback at Ivy Tech Community College, on median earnings of $77,235 vs $37,186 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Ivy Tech Community College or Butler University?
Ivy Tech Community College: $7,258/yr net price after aid versus $36,041/yr at Butler University — a difference of $28,783 a year, or about $115,132 over four years.
Do Ivy Tech Community College or Butler University graduates earn more?
Butler University graduates earn a median $77,235 ten years after entry, versus $37,186 at Ivy Tech Community College — a $40,049 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.