University of Missouri-Columbia vs Columbia College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Missouri-Columbia has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $81,072 in 5.4 years versus not at all at Columbia College, on median earnings of $63,403 vs $45,378 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Missouri-Columbia | Columbia College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $20,268 | $22,715 |
| Total net cost | $81,072 | $90,860 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $63,403 | $45,378 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $23,879 |
| Payback | 5.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $219,788 | -$150,500 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Missouri-Columbia vs Columbia College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Missouri-Columbia or Columbia College a better value?
University of Missouri-Columbia. It clears its $81,072 net cost in about 5.4 years versus no clear payback at Columbia College, on median earnings of $63,403 vs $45,378 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Missouri-Columbia or Columbia College?
University of Missouri-Columbia: $20,268/yr net price after aid versus $22,715/yr at Columbia College — a difference of $2,447 a year, or about $9,788 over four years.
Do University of Missouri-Columbia or Columbia College graduates earn more?
University of Missouri-Columbia graduates earn a median $63,403 ten years after entry, versus $45,378 at Columbia College — a $18,025 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.