University of St Thomas vs Metropolitan State University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Metropolitan State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $67,452 in 4.1 years versus 4.6 years at University of St Thomas, on median earnings of $64,705 vs $73,739 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of St Thomas | Metropolitan State University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $29,155 | $16,863 |
| Total net cost | $116,620 | $67,452 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $73,739 | $64,705 |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $17,100 |
| Payback | 4.6 yrs | 4.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $390,960 | $259,448 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of St Thomas vs Metropolitan State University: frequently asked questions
Is University of St Thomas or Metropolitan State University a better value?
Metropolitan State University. It clears its $67,452 net cost in about 4.1 years versus 4.6 years at University of St Thomas, on median earnings of $64,705 vs $73,739 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of St Thomas or Metropolitan State University?
Metropolitan State University: $16,863/yr net price after aid versus $29,155/yr at University of St Thomas — a difference of $12,292 a year, or about $49,168 over four years.
Do University of St Thomas or Metropolitan State University graduates earn more?
University of St Thomas graduates earn a median $73,739 ten years after entry, versus $64,705 at Metropolitan State University — a $9,034 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.