Worcester Polytechnic Institute vs College of the Holy Cross: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Worcester Polytechnic Institute has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $172,284 in 3.1 years versus 3.7 years at College of the Holy Cross, on median earnings of $103,470 vs $90,543 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | College of the Holy Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $43,071 | $38,782 |
| Total net cost | $172,284 | $155,128 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $103,470 | $90,543 |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $27,000 |
| Payback | 3.1 yrs | 3.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $929,916 | $688,532 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute vs College of the Holy Cross: frequently asked questions
Is Worcester Polytechnic Institute or College of the Holy Cross a better value?
Worcester Polytechnic Institute. It clears its $172,284 net cost in about 3.1 years versus 3.7 years at College of the Holy Cross, on median earnings of $103,470 vs $90,543 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Worcester Polytechnic Institute or College of the Holy Cross?
College of the Holy Cross: $38,782/yr net price after aid versus $43,071/yr at Worcester Polytechnic Institute — a difference of $4,289 a year, or about $17,156 over four years.
Do Worcester Polytechnic Institute or College of the Holy Cross graduates earn more?
Worcester Polytechnic Institute graduates earn a median $103,470 ten years after entry, versus $90,543 at College of the Holy Cross — a $12,927 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.