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Bentley University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

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

16
Bentley Wins
11
Tied / N/A
15
Pennsylvania Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
4,474
Enrollment
42,284
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

45%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1352
SAT Average
1337
30
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1280-1430
SAT Range
1240-1420

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,000
In-State Tuition
$20,644
$61,000
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,790
$37,930
Average Net Price
$32,875
$21,196
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$19,845
$18,587
Net Price ($30-48K)
$20,049
$26,164
Net Price ($48-75K)
$25,667
$49,190
Net Price ($110K+)
$37,831
16%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
40%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
86%
93%
Retention Rate
93%
67%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$15,847
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,120
16%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

40%
Female
50%
53%
White
63%
14%
Hispanic
9%
4%
Black
5%
10%
Asian
8%
0.67
Diversity Index
0.58

Outcomes

$86,679
Earnings (6yr)
$55,620
$102,857
Earnings (8yr)
$60,370
$120,959
Earnings (10yr)
$63,435
$25,023
Median Debt
$25,000
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39x
92%
Earning Above HS
73%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

294.19%
Mobility Rate
N/A
6058.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
485.6%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$119,600
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.71
0.00
Friending Bias
0.00
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
6.0%

The Overviews

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · Private nonprofit

45% accept 88% grad $120,959 earnings $37,930 net

At Bentley University, students who are interested in business, technology, and social sciences will find a supportive environment that encourages growth and collaboration. With an acceptance rate of 45%, this private nonprofit school draws in a diverse group of around 4,474 students. The focus here is on practical skills and real-world applications, making programs in Business & Marketing, Computer Science, and Health Professions particularly popular.

When looking ahead to life after graduation, Bentley graduates see impressive financial outcomes. On average, they earn about $120,959 within ten years of completing their degrees. This figure is significant because it reflects the university's strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers. While 16% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to affordability for those who need it, the overall financial picture remains favorable for graduates.

Considering the practicalities, the net price after aid stands at $37,930, which is manageable relative to the median debt of $25,023. This debt load is reasonable and allows many graduates to thrive in their early careers. Bentley is ideal for motivated individuals who are ready to engage deeply with their studies and the broader community, setting themselves up for success in a competitive job market.

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PA · Public

61% accept 86% grad $63,435 earnings $32,875 net

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

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