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Brown University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

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

25
Brown Wins
15
Tied / N/A
6
Pennsylvania Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
7,226
Enrollment
42,284
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1546
SAT Average
1337
34
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1510-1580
SAT Range
1240-1420

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$20,644
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,790
$25,184
Average Net Price
$32,875
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$19,845
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$20,049
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$25,667
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$37,831
14%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
40%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
86%
99%
Retention Rate
93%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,120
17%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

54%
Female
50%
33%
White
63%
12%
Hispanic
9%
8%
Black
5%
23%
Asian
8%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.58

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$55,620
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$60,370
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$63,435
$11,428
Median Debt
$25,000
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39x
79%
Earning Above HS
73%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
N/A
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$67,800
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.71
0.00
Friending Bias
0.00
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
6.0%

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.

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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