Skip to content
CollegeRanker

Compare

Bucknell University vs University of Massachusetts-Amherst

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

12
Bucknell Wins
13
Tied / N/A
17
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Town
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
3,876
Enrollment
23,671
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

29%
Acceptance Rate
60%
1410
SAT Average
1423
31
ACT Midpoint
31
1310-1470
SAT Range
1310-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,812
In-State Tuition
$17,772
$67,812
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,449
$40,766
Average Net Price
$22,383
$20,980
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$10,164
$12,276
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,456
$23,679
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,932
$55,724
Net Price ($110K+)
$30,793
12%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
35%
Federal Loan Rate
47%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
83%
94%
Retention Rate
92%
97%
Full-Time Faculty
81%
$13,254
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,663
12%
First-Gen Students
22%

Student Body

52%
Female
52%
73%
White
57%
9%
Hispanic
9%
4%
Black
5%
4%
Asian
14%
0.44
Diversity Index
0.64

Outcomes

$78,852
Earnings (6yr)
$60,347
$88,483
Earnings (8yr)
$66,904
$93,807
Earnings (10yr)
$71,631
$27,000
Median Debt
$22,763
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.32x
88%
Earning Above HS
75%

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
1.80
0.01
Friending Bias
0.01
6.1%
Volunteering Rate
9.0%

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.

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · Public

60% accept 83% grad $71,631 earnings $22,383 net

With an enrollment of 23,671 students, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a great fit for those looking for a diverse and vibrant campus life. It stands out for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Engineering. Students here are often engaged in a wide range of studies, reflecting both academic rigor and practical application. The acceptance rate of 60% means that while it’s accessible, there’s still a competitive edge that can stimulate personal growth.

Graduates from UMass-Amherst can expect solid outcomes, with a median earning of $71,631 ten years after graduation. This figure speaks volumes about the potential return on investment. It’s encouraging to know that students can find rewarding careers, especially considering the affordability of education here. The net price after aid is $22,383, which positions the school as a reasonable choice for many families.

When it comes to finances, the median debt stands at $22,763, which is manageable given the earning potential. UMass-Amherst tends to attract students who are motivated and ready to embrace the opportunities that come with a public university experience. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, there’s a commitment to supporting diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Overall, this school nurtures those who are eager to thrive both academically and professionally after graduation.

Sponsored

Compare Accredited Programs Accepting Applicants

Matched to high-demand fields — request info, free.

Ad