University of Minnesota-Duluth vs Lake Superior College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Minnesota-Duluth has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $74,972 in 5.3 years versus not at all at Lake Superior College, on median earnings of $62,616 vs $46,449 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Minnesota-Duluth | Lake Superior College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,743 | $15,492 |
| Total net cost | $74,972 | $30,984 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $62,616 | $46,449 |
| Median debt | $22,024 | $12,775 |
| Payback | 5.3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $210,148 | -$69,204 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Minnesota-Duluth vs Lake Superior College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Minnesota-Duluth or Lake Superior College a better value?
University of Minnesota-Duluth. It clears its $74,972 net cost in about 5.3 years versus no clear payback at Lake Superior College, on median earnings of $62,616 vs $46,449 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Minnesota-Duluth or Lake Superior College?
Lake Superior College: $15,492/yr net price after aid versus $18,743/yr at University of Minnesota-Duluth — a difference of $3,251 a year, or about $43,988 over four years.
Do University of Minnesota-Duluth or Lake Superior College graduates earn more?
University of Minnesota-Duluth graduates earn a median $62,616 ten years after entry, versus $46,449 at Lake Superior College — a $16,167 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.