Ivy Tech Community College vs Purdue University-Main Campus: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Purdue University-Main Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $58,400 in 2.4 years versus not at all at Ivy Tech Community College, on median earnings of $72,424 vs $37,186 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Ivy Tech Community College | Purdue University-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $7,258 | $14,600 |
| Total net cost | $29,032 | $58,400 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $37,186 | $72,424 |
| Median debt | $10,727 | $19,500 |
| Payback | — | 2.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $-252,512 | $422,880 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.