Western Governors University vs Salt Lake Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Western Governors University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $50,192 in 4.1 years versus not at all at Salt Lake Community College, on median earnings of $60,615 vs $47,867 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Western Governors University | Salt Lake Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,548 | $9,804 |
| Total net cost | $50,192 | $19,608 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $60,615 | $47,867 |
| Median debt | $11,116 | $8,003 |
| Payback | 4.1 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $194,908 | -$29,468 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Western Governors University vs Salt Lake Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Western Governors University or Salt Lake Community College a better value?
Western Governors University. It clears its $50,192 net cost in about 4.1 years versus no clear payback at Salt Lake Community College, on median earnings of $60,615 vs $47,867 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Western Governors University or Salt Lake Community College?
Salt Lake Community College: $9,804/yr net price after aid versus $12,548/yr at Western Governors University — a difference of $2,744 a year, or about $30,584 over four years.
Do Western Governors University or Salt Lake Community College graduates earn more?
Western Governors University graduates earn a median $60,615 ten years after entry, versus $47,867 at Salt Lake Community College — a $12,748 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.