University of Memphis vs Southwest Tennessee Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Memphis has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $49,588 in 506 years versus not at all at Southwest Tennessee Community College, on median earnings of $48,458 vs $34,071 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Memphis | Southwest Tennessee Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,397 | $4,754 |
| Total net cost | $49,588 | $9,508 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $48,458 | $34,071 |
| Median debt | $23,300 | — |
| Payback | 506 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | -$47,628 | -$295,288 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Memphis vs Southwest Tennessee Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Memphis or Southwest Tennessee Community College a better value?
University of Memphis. It clears its $49,588 net cost in about 506 years versus no clear payback at Southwest Tennessee Community College, on median earnings of $48,458 vs $34,071 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Memphis or Southwest Tennessee Community College?
Southwest Tennessee Community College: $4,754/yr net price after aid versus $12,397/yr at University of Memphis — a difference of $7,643 a year, or about $40,080 over four years.
Do University of Memphis or Southwest Tennessee Community College graduates earn more?
University of Memphis graduates earn a median $48,458 ten years after entry, versus $34,071 at Southwest Tennessee Community College — a $14,387 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.