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Brown University vs Michigan State University

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

30
Brown Wins
5
Tied / N/A
11
Michigan Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
7,226
Enrollment
40,922
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
85%
1546
SAT Average
1269
34
ACT Midpoint
26
1510-1580
SAT Range
1180-1360

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$16,458
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$43,842
$25,184
Average Net Price
$19,680
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,068
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,830
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$16,521
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$28,546
14%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
34%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
81%
99%
Retention Rate
90%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,468
17%
First-Gen Students
21%

Student Body

54%
Female
55%
33%
White
67%
12%
Hispanic
7%
8%
Black
7%
23%
Asian
8%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.53

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$55,084
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$62,777
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$11,428
Median Debt
$23,250
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.35x
79%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
138.78%
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3392.0%
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
409.1%
$67,800
Parent Median Income
$120,400

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.48
0.00
Friending Bias
0.09
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
7.7%

Research (Times HE)

#55
World Rank
#122
59.7
Teaching Score
50.4
57
Research Score
52.7
77.7
Citations Score
63.7

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.

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public

85% accept 81% grad $67,253 earnings $19,680 net

With an enrollment of over 40,000 students, Michigan State University is a vibrant choice for those looking to dive into fields like Business, Biology, Engineering, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 85% means it's accessible, welcoming a diverse range of students who are eager to grow academically and socially. Here, you’ll find a mix of rigorous academic programs and a lively campus life that suits both serious scholars and those looking to make connections.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a median income of $67,253 just ten years post-degree. This indicates that graduates are moving into steady careers that often lead to upward mobility, although specific statistics on mobility are not available. The cost of education is manageable, especially considering the average net price of $19,680 after aid, which makes it an appealing option for many.

When it comes to affordability, the median debt sits at $23,250, which is relatively reasonable given the earning potential. Students who thrive here often take advantage of the large network and resources available, whether through campus organizations or internship opportunities. Overall, Michigan State University attracts those who are ready to engage in a dynamic environment and are focused on building a future that balances education with real-world applicability.

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