Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College vs Mercyhurst University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $98,232 in 6.5 years versus not at all at Mercyhurst University, on median earnings of $63,435 vs $47,452 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College | Mercyhurst University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $24,558 | $19,444 |
| Total net cost | $98,232 | $77,776 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $63,435 | $47,452 |
| Median debt | $25,000 | $25,305 |
| Payback | 6.5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $203,268 | -$95,936 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College vs Mercyhurst University: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College or Mercyhurst University a better value?
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College. It clears its $98,232 net cost in about 6.5 years versus no clear payback at Mercyhurst University, on median earnings of $63,435 vs $47,452 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College or Mercyhurst University?
Mercyhurst University: $19,444/yr net price after aid versus $24,558/yr at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College — a difference of $5,114 a year, or about $20,456 over four years.
Do Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College or Mercyhurst University graduates earn more?
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College graduates earn a median $63,435 ten years after entry, versus $47,452 at Mercyhurst University — a $15,983 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.