Valparaiso University vs Marian University-Ancilla: which has better ROI?
Marian University-Ancilla has the better ROI: it clears its 2-year net cost of $38,926 in 3.7 years versus 5 years at Valparaiso University, on median earnings of $58,759 vs $63,191 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Valparaiso University | Marian University-Ancilla |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,578 | $19,463 |
| Total net cost | $74,312 | $38,926 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $63,191 | $58,759 |
| Median debt | $26,942 | $27,000 |
| Payback | 5 yrs | 3.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $222,308 | $169,054 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Which is cheaper, Valparaiso University or Marian University-Ancilla?
Valparaiso University, at $18,578 a year after aid versus $19,463 — a gap of $885 a year, or $35,386 across the full degree. These are net prices after grants and scholarships, not sticker prices, so they reflect what an aided student pays.
Do Valparaiso University or Marian University-Ancilla graduates earn more?
Valparaiso University graduates report a median $63,191 ten years after entry, $4,432 more than the $58,759 at Marian University-Ancilla. Both are institution-wide medians from federal tax records, so a high-paying major at the lower school can beat the average at the higher one.
Which leaves students with less debt, Valparaiso University or Marian University-Ancilla?
Valparaiso University: its completers carry a median $26,942 in federal loans versus $27,000 at Marian University-Ancilla, a difference of $58. The figure counts students who finished; it excludes private loans and anyone who left before graduating.