Metropolitan State University of Denver vs University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $47,600 in 3 years versus 16.4 years at Metropolitan State University of Denver, on median earnings of $64,270 vs $52,093 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Metropolitan State University of Denver | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,327 | $11,900 |
| Total net cost | $61,308 | $47,600 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $52,093 | $64,270 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $20,500 |
| Payback | 16.4 yrs | 3 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $13,352 | $270,600 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Metropolitan State University of Denver vs University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus: frequently asked questions
Is Metropolitan State University of Denver or University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus a better value?
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus. It clears its $47,600 net cost in about 3 years versus 16.4 years at Metropolitan State University of Denver, on median earnings of $64,270 vs $52,093 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Metropolitan State University of Denver or University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus?
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus: $11,900/yr net price after aid versus $15,327/yr at Metropolitan State University of Denver — a difference of $3,427 a year, or about $13,708 over four years.
Do Metropolitan State University of Denver or University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus graduates earn more?
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus graduates earn a median $64,270 ten years after entry, versus $52,093 at Metropolitan State University of Denver — a $12,177 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.