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Barnard College vs Columbia University in the City of New York

42 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

10
Barnard Wins
7
Tied / N/A
25
Columbia Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
3,264
Enrollment
8,973
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

9%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1520
SAT Average
1553
33
ACT Midpoint
35
1470-1560
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$69,888
In-State Tuition
$71,845
$69,888
Out-of-State Tuition
$71,845
$28,800
Average Net Price
$21,590
$11,600
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,570
$15,374
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,275
$19,094
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,866
$51,378
Net Price ($110K+)
$50,621
16%
Pell Grant Rate
23%
26%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

93%
Graduation Rate
96%
97%
Retention Rate
98%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
43%
$15,995
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$21,516
16%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

N/A
Female
45%
32%
White
29%
14%
Hispanic
15%
6%
Black
8%
22%
Asian
19%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$60,411
Earnings (6yr)
$88,535
$80,465
Earnings (8yr)
$98,435
$80,516
Earnings (10yr)
$102,491
$18,000
Median Debt
$21,500
0.22x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
76%
Earning Above HS
86%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

345.46%
Mobility Rate
307.36%
5282.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6121.7%
654.0%
From Bottom 20%
502.1%
$148,000
Parent Median Income
$169,600

Social Capital

N/A
Economic Connectedness
1.82
N/A
Friending Bias
0.03
15.5%
Volunteering Rate
10.3%

The Overviews

Barnard College

New York, NY · Private nonprofit

9% accept 93% grad $80,516 earnings $28,800 net

With an acceptance rate of just 9%, Barnard College attracts a driven and academically ambitious group of students. It's a great fit for those who are passionate about the liberal arts and sciences, and you’ll find a vibrant selection of programs here, including Social Sciences, Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, and the Visual and Performing Arts. The close-knit community in the heart of New York City offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and cultural experiences.

After graduation, Barnard alumni see impressive earnings, with a median income of $80,516 after ten years. This level of financial success is a clear indicator of the value of a Barnard degree in today’s job market. The school’s strong graduation rate of 93% speaks volumes about student support and engagement, making it likely that graduates will find their footing in a competitive landscape.

In terms of affordability, the net price after aid stands at $28,800, which is manageable given the potential earning power of graduates. With a median debt of $18,000, students tend to graduate with a reasonable financial burden. Those who thrive here are often those who are not only academically inclined but also eager to engage with the diverse opportunities the city has to offer, making Barnard a launching pad for future success.

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · Private nonprofit

4% accept 96% grad $102,491 earnings $21,590 net

Columbia University in the City of New York is an excellent fit for ambitious students who are ready to dive deep into their studies. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, it attracts driven individuals who excel academically. Students here often focus on top programs such as Social Sciences, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Biology & Biomedical, and English & Literature. The tight-knit community and diverse course offerings create an environment where students can thrive.

Life after graduation looks promising for Columbia alumni, with a ten-year earnings average of $102,491. This figure indicates the long-term financial benefits of attending this university. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and often find themselves in positions that allow for upward mobility. The high graduation rate of 96% suggests that most students successfully complete their degrees, which is a strong indicator of the support and resources available.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Columbia, the net price after aid is approximately $21,590, which is quite manageable given the high earning potential. With a median debt of $21,500, most graduates come out with a reasonable financial burden. The combination of these factors, along with the strong academic environment, tends to attract students who are not only academically talented but also motivated to make the most of their educational experience.

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