University of Alabama at Birmingham vs Lawson State Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Alabama at Birmingham has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $74,996 in 12.2 years versus not at all at Lawson State Community College, on median earnings of $54,501 vs $31,701 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Alabama at Birmingham | Lawson State Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,749 | $6,275 |
| Total net cost | $74,996 | $12,550 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $54,501 | $31,701 |
| Median debt | $22,300 | — |
| Payback | 12.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $47,824 | -$345,730 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Alabama at Birmingham vs Lawson State Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Alabama at Birmingham or Lawson State Community College a better value?
University of Alabama at Birmingham. It clears its $74,996 net cost in about 12.2 years versus no clear payback at Lawson State Community College, on median earnings of $54,501 vs $31,701 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Alabama at Birmingham or Lawson State Community College?
Lawson State Community College: $6,275/yr net price after aid versus $18,749/yr at University of Alabama at Birmingham — a difference of $12,474 a year, or about $62,446 over four years.
Do University of Alabama at Birmingham or Lawson State Community College graduates earn more?
University of Alabama at Birmingham graduates earn a median $54,501 ten years after entry, versus $31,701 at Lawson State Community College — a $22,800 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.