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Bucknell University vs Ohio State University-Main Campus

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

13
Bucknell Wins
11
Tied / N/A
18
Ohio Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Town
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Great Lakes
3,876
Enrollment
45,638
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

29%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1410
SAT Average
1387
31
ACT Midpoint
29
1310-1470
SAT Range
1310-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,812
In-State Tuition
$13,244
$67,812
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,022
$40,766
Average Net Price
$17,339
$20,980
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,885
$12,276
Net Price ($30-48K)
$5,751
$23,679
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,807
$55,724
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,359
12%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
35%
Federal Loan Rate
29%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
88%
94%
Retention Rate
94%
97%
Full-Time Faculty
63%
$13,254
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,386
12%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

52%
Female
52%
73%
White
60%
9%
Hispanic
6%
4%
Black
8%
4%
Asian
11%
0.44
Diversity Index
0.61

Outcomes

$78,852
Earnings (6yr)
$51,438
$88,483
Earnings (8yr)
$56,186
$93,807
Earnings (10yr)
$60,409
$27,000
Median Debt
$19,976
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.33x
88%
Earning Above HS
72%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

146.01%
Mobility Rate
N/A
5515.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
264.8%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$149,800
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.57
0.01
Friending Bias
0.03
6.1%
Volunteering Rate
8.5%

The Overviews

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · Private nonprofit

29% accept 86% grad $93,807 earnings $40,766 net

With an enrollment of about 3,876 students, Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, is an excellent fit for those seeking a close-knit academic community. The school has a 29% acceptance rate, which reflects a selective approach to admissions, and an impressive graduation rate of 86%. Students here typically dive into programs like Social Sciences, Engineering, Business & Marketing, Biology & Biomedical, and Psychology, gaining both depth and breadth in their fields.

After graduation, Bucknell alumni find themselves in strong positions, with earnings averaging $93,807 a decade after they leave. This figure illustrates a solid return on investment for the education received, helping graduates build successful careers. While the median debt stands at $27,000, the balance seems manageable when considering the financial pathways that open up for graduates.

When we look at the cost of attendance, the net price after aid is about $40,766, which can feel significant but is often offset by the financial advantages graduates experience. Students who thrive here generally come with a sense of ambition and a commitment to making the most of the resources available. Bucknell seems to attract those ready to engage deeply in their studies and leverage their education for future success.

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public

61% accept 88% grad $60,409 earnings $17,339 net

With an enrollment of over 45,600 students, Ohio State University-Main Campus is a vibrant place for those seeking a large, diverse community. It attracts students who are eager to explore a variety of fields, especially in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Health Professions, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 61% means there's a good chance for students to join this dynamic environment, where the graduation rate stands impressively at 88%.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $60,409 within ten years of completing their degree. This level of income can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life, particularly when the cost of attending is manageable. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, Ohio State shows a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, providing pathways for upward mobility.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $17,339, which keeps college within reach for many families. The median debt load of $19,976 is relatively low compared to what students at other public institutions might face. This combination of affordability and strong outcomes makes Ohio State a fitting choice for motivated students who are ready to thrive in a collaborative and engaging setting.

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