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Colleges / OR / Salem
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Willamette University

Private nonprofit Salem, OR · Urban · Far West · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
72%
Graduation Rate
$56,911
Earnings (10yr)
$25,121
Net Price
77%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

At Willamette University, we see a community that welcomes students interested in social sciences, physical sciences, psychology, biology, and the arts. With an acceptance rate of 77%, it’s a good fit for those who are looking for a supportive environment to pursue their passions. The campus culture is all about collaboration and engagement, making it an appealing choice for students who thrive in a close-knit academic setting.

When it comes to life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $56,911 after ten years, which is a solid benchmark for building a career. While we don’t have mobility data, the affordability aspect is noteworthy. The net price after aid is $25,121, making it accessible for a variety of financial situations, and many students are able to manage their costs effectively.

Looking at the financial landscape, students graduate with a median debt of $21,500. This is a manageable figure for many, especially given the potential earnings. Those who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a blend of academic rigor and community support, making it a great choice for students looking to balance their education with personal growth.

Rankings

How Willamette Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation72%Earnings 10yr$57KNet Price$25KRetention87%Median Debt$22KPell Grant Rate24%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$16K$0-30K$17K$30-48K$18K$48-75K$34K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%350.1%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%5241.9%MOBILITY183.52%

Cost & Financial Aid

$51,156
In-State Tuition
$51,156
Out-of-State
$25,121
Avg Net Price
$21,500
Median Debt
24%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$16,182
Family Income $0–$30K
$16,825
Family Income $30K–$48K
$18,225
Family Income $48K–$75K
$33,794
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$38,932
6 Years After Entry
$50,849
8 Years
$56,911
10 Years
0.38x
Debt-to-Earnings
64%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$38,932 6yr $50,849 8yr $56,911 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

183.52%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
5241.9%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
350.1%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$110,800
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.72
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
12.1%
Volunteering Rate
1.00
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 77%
Retention Rate 87%
SAT Average 1377
SAT Range 1240–1440
ACT Range 28–33
Full-Time Faculty 69%
Faculty Salary (mo) $11,083
Diversity Index 0.55
First-Gen Students 19%

Top Programs

Social Sciences 24%
Physical Sciences 6%
Psychology 6%
Biology & Biomedical 5%
Visual & Performing Arts 5%
Computer Science & IT 4%
Business & Marketing 4%
English & Literature 4%