University of Cincinnati-Main Campus vs Cincinnati State Technical and Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $102,592 in 15.9 years versus not at all at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, on median earnings of $54,810 vs $40,137 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | Cincinnati State Technical and Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $25,648 | $4,968 |
| Total net cost | $102,592 | $19,872 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $54,810 | $40,137 |
| Median debt | $21,250 | $14,715 |
| Payback | 15.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $26,408 | -$184,332 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus vs Cincinnati State Technical and Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Cincinnati-Main Campus or Cincinnati State Technical and Community College a better value?
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus. It clears its $102,592 net cost in about 15.9 years versus no clear payback at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, on median earnings of $54,810 vs $40,137 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus or Cincinnati State Technical and Community College?
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College: $4,968/yr net price after aid versus $25,648/yr at University of Cincinnati-Main Campus — a difference of $20,680 a year, or about $82,720 over four years.
Do University of Cincinnati-Main Campus or Cincinnati State Technical and Community College graduates earn more?
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus graduates earn a median $54,810 ten years after entry, versus $40,137 at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College — a $14,673 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.