Lamar University vs Lamar Institute of Technology: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Lamar University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $37,464 in 29 years versus not at all at Lamar Institute of Technology, on median earnings of $49,652 vs $38,991 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Lamar University | Lamar Institute of Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,366 | $13,866 |
| Total net cost | $37,464 | $55,464 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $49,652 | $38,991 |
| Median debt | $21,250 | $13,076 |
| Payback | 29 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | -$11,624 | -$242,844 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Lamar University vs Lamar Institute of Technology: frequently asked questions
Is Lamar University or Lamar Institute of Technology a better value?
Lamar University. It clears its $37,464 net cost in about 29 years versus no clear payback at Lamar Institute of Technology, on median earnings of $49,652 vs $38,991 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Lamar University or Lamar Institute of Technology?
Lamar University: $9,366/yr net price after aid versus $13,866/yr at Lamar Institute of Technology — a difference of $4,500 a year, or about $18,000 over four years.
Do Lamar University or Lamar Institute of Technology graduates earn more?
Lamar University graduates earn a median $49,652 ten years after entry, versus $38,991 at Lamar Institute of Technology — a $10,661 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.