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University of Louisville vs Jefferson Community and Technical College: which has better ROI?

Public, Louisville KY · vs · Public, Louisville KY

The verdict

University of Louisville has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $71,952 in 13 years versus not at all at Jefferson Community and Technical College, on median earnings of $53,899 vs $38,171 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureUniversity of LouisvilleJefferson Community and Technical College
Net price / yr$17,988$6,376
Total net cost$71,952$25,504
Median earnings, 10 yrs$53,899$38,171
Median debt$20,500$11,651
Payback13 yrs
20-year net return$38,828-$229,284

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.

University of Louisville vs Jefferson Community and Technical College: frequently asked questions

Is University of Louisville or Jefferson Community and Technical College a better value?
University of Louisville. It clears its $71,952 net cost in about 13 years versus no clear payback at Jefferson Community and Technical College, on median earnings of $53,899 vs $38,171 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Louisville or Jefferson Community and Technical College?
Jefferson Community and Technical College: $6,376/yr net price after aid versus $17,988/yr at University of Louisville — a difference of $11,612 a year, or about $46,448 over four years.
Do University of Louisville or Jefferson Community and Technical College graduates earn more?
University of Louisville graduates earn a median $53,899 ten years after entry, versus $38,171 at Jefferson Community and Technical College — a $15,728 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.