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Brown University vs University of Southern California

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

27
Brown Wins
7
Tied / N/A
12
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Far West
7,226
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1546
SAT Average
1495
34
ACT Midpoint
34
1510-1580
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,412
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$71,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$25,184
Average Net Price
$32,740
$-420
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$2,031
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$5,858
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$44,937
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
14%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
92%
99%
Retention Rate
96%
92%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$17,839
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
17%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

54%
Female
55%
33%
White
26%
12%
Hispanic
20%
8%
Black
7%
23%
Asian
23%
0.80
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$79,131
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$84,208
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$93,487
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$11,428
Median Debt
$18,000
0.12x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
79%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

136.36%
Mobility Rate
393.30%
1187.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
1148.8%
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
$67,800
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.00
Friending Bias
0.03
13.3%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

#55
World Rank
#73
59.7
Teaching Score
65.4
57
Research Score
48.7
77.7
Citations Score
71.9

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.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit

10% accept 92% grad $92,498 earnings $32,740 net

The University of Southern California has an impressive graduation rate of 92%. This reflects the institution's strong commitment to student success and academic support. Students here are likely to find a community that encourages them to complete their degrees on time.

According to data from Opportunity Insights, while specific mobility metrics are not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are able to improve their economic prospects through education. Graduates from USC earn a median salary of $92,498 a decade after leaving, indicating a solid return on investment for their education.

The cost of attendance at USC is $32,740, with a median debt of $18,000 for those who borrow. This financial landscape makes it essential for prospective students to consider their funding options. Students who thrive at USC often have a clear focus on their career paths, particularly in fields like business, arts, and technology.

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