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Boston University vs Carnegie Mellon University

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

17
Boston Wins
5
Tied / N/A
24
Carnegie Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
18,248
Enrollment
7,304
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

11%
Acceptance Rate
12%
1480
SAT Average
1546
33
ACT Midpoint
34
1420-1530
SAT Range
1500-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$68,102
In-State Tuition
$66,246
$68,102
Out-of-State Tuition
$66,246
$24,402
Average Net Price
$31,944
$9,500
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$9,097
$9,342
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,994
$11,778
Net Price ($48-75K)
$14,468
$47,504
Net Price ($110K+)
$51,480
19%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
23%
Federal Loan Rate
34%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
93%
95%
Retention Rate
98%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
92%
$16,623
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,972
17%
First-Gen Students
10%

Student Body

65%
Female
47%
32%
White
22%
11%
Hispanic
10%
6%
Black
4%
21%
Asian
34%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.78

Outcomes

$65,655
Earnings (6yr)
$105,360
$73,661
Earnings (8yr)
$105,524
$83,238
Earnings (10yr)
$114,862
$23,250
Median Debt
$21,750
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
81%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

201.75%
Mobility Rate
218.74%
5043.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5320.4%
400.0%
From Bottom 20%
411.1%
$126,800
Parent Median Income
$134,400

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
1.83
-0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
9.7%
Volunteering Rate
7.1%

Research (Times HE)

#59
World Rank
#20
53.6
Teaching Score
70.3
51.9
Research Score
79.3
91.4
Citations Score
95.7

The Overviews

Boston University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 89% grad $83,238 earnings $24,402 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Boston University is a great fit for motivated students who are ready to engage with a vibrant urban campus. It's an appealing choice for those interested in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Communications, Biology & Biomedical, or Computer Science & IT. The school’s diverse offerings attract students who are eager to explore various disciplines and prepare for dynamic careers.

After graduation, students from Boston University can expect to earn an impressive average of $83,238 within a decade. This means graduates are stepping into solid financial footing relatively quickly, which is encouraging for those considering their return on investment. With a graduation rate of 89%, it shows that students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees, paving the way for upward mobility in their careers.

When it comes to the practical side of financing your education, the net price after aid stands at approximately $24,402, which is manageable for many families. The median debt for graduates is $23,250, a figure that many could navigate effectively post-graduation. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are ready to take advantage of Boston’s resources and connections, ultimately setting themselves up for successful futures.

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · Private nonprofit

12% accept 93% grad $114,862 earnings $31,944 net

With an acceptance rate of just 12%, Carnegie Mellon University is a great fit for students who are ready to dive into rigorous academic programs. This school attracts those passionate about fields like Engineering, Computer Science, and Business. The blend of technical and creative disciplines, including Visual and Performing Arts, creates a unique environment where students can thrive while exploring their varied interests.

Life after graduation at Carnegie Mellon looks promising. Graduates can expect to earn an impressive average of $114,862 within ten years of completing their degrees. This strong earning potential is crucial for students weighing their options, as it reflects the value of the education they receive here. With a graduation rate of 93%, it’s clear that students are not only getting in but are also navigating their studies successfully.

When considering the financial aspect, the net price after aid is around $31,944, which can feel daunting but is manageable compared to potential earnings. The median debt for graduates stands at $21,750, suggesting that many students are able to graduate with a reasonable level of debt. Students who tend to thrive here are those who are dedicated, ambitious, and ready to engage deeply with their chosen fields.

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