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Brown University vs Clarkson University

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

28
Brown Wins
8
Tied / N/A
10
Clarkson Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Town
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
7,226
Enrollment
2,196
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
77%
1546
SAT Average
1304
34
ACT Midpoint
29
1510-1580
SAT Range
1200-1390

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$59,398
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$59,398
$25,184
Average Net Price
$30,305
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$21,335
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$19,934
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$23,321
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,757
14%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
62%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
74%
99%
Retention Rate
85%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
78%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$11,357
17%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

54%
Female
30%
33%
White
74%
12%
Hispanic
13%
8%
Black
3%
23%
Asian
2%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.43

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$76,970
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$78,777
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$89,696
$11,428
Median Debt
$26,000
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.29x
79%
Earning Above HS
86%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
296.70%
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5299.4%
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
559.9%
$67,800
Parent Median Income
$94,600

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.70
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.03
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
5.3%

Research (Times HE)

#55
World Rank
N/A
59.7
Teaching Score
N/A
57
Research Score
N/A
77.7
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Brown University

Providence, RI · Private nonprofit

5% accept 96% grad $93,487 earnings $25,184 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Brown University in Providence, RI, is a selective option that attracts students driven to excel academically and personally. It’s a place for those who thrive in a collaborative environment and are eager to dive into programs like Social Sciences, Computer Science, Biology, Mathematics, and Engineering. The high graduation rate of 96% speaks to the strong support system in place, making it a solid choice for ambitious students.

After graduation, Brown alumni see impressive earning potential, with a median income of $93,487 ten years post-graduation. This financial trajectory suggests that graduates are not just securing jobs, but often moving into roles that reward their hard work. While this school may come with a price tag, the outcomes reflect a community that values education and shapes successful careers.

When it comes to the finances, the net price after aid stands at $25,184, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $11,428. This is encouraging, especially for students who may be concerned about student loans. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated and ready to engage deeply with their studies, taking full advantage of the opportunities that come their way.

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · Private nonprofit

77% accept 74% grad $89,696 earnings $30,305 net

With an acceptance rate of 77%, Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, is a solid choice for students seeking a blend of academic rigor and community feel. It's particularly suitable for those interested in fields like Engineering, Business and Marketing, Biology, Computer Science, and Psychology. The hands-on learning and collaborative environment stand out, making it easier for students to connect their studies to real-world applications.

Looking at what comes after graduation, the average earnings ten years out is $89,696. This figure is telling; it suggests that graduates from Clarkson tend to find good job opportunities that lead to solid financial stability. While the median debt is $26,000, the affordability of education here can help mitigate the long-term financial burden for many students.

When we talk about the practical side of attending Clarkson, the net price after aid hovers around $30,305. This cost is manageable compared to what many private institutions charge, especially when considering the potential return on investment. Students who thrive here are typically those who are proactive, engaged, and eager to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The supportive campus community also plays a role in helping students succeed.

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