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Bucknell University vs Western Governors University

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

11
Bucknell Wins
16
Tied / N/A
15
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Rocky Mountains
3,876
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

29%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1410
SAT Average
N/A
31
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1310-1470
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,812
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$67,812
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$40,766
Average Net Price
$12,548
$20,980
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$12,276
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$23,679
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$55,724
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
12%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
35%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
48%
94%
Retention Rate
65%
97%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$13,254
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
12%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

52%
Female
69%
73%
White
50%
9%
Hispanic
16%
4%
Black
14%
4%
Asian
4%
0.44
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$78,852
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$88,483
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$93,807
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$27,000
Median Debt
$11,116
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
88%
Earning Above HS
71%

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
N/A
0.01
Friending Bias
N/A
6.1%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

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.

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit

48% grad $60,615 earnings $12,548 net

With an enrollment of 155,088 students, Western Governors University in Salt Lake City stands out as a solid choice for those seeking flexibility in their education. It caters well to non-traditional students, particularly in fields like Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Education, and Engineering. The online format allows for self-paced learning, which is ideal for working adults or those balancing multiple responsibilities.

Looking at life after graduation, students can expect a median earning of $60,615 ten years post-degree. This figure suggests that graduates are finding solid job opportunities. While the graduation rate is 48%, the income potential indicates that those who complete their programs are likely to see a good return on their investment, despite the challenges that might come with juggling work and studies.

On the practical side, the net price after aid comes in at $12,548, with a median debt of $11,116. This suggests that many students can manage their educational expenses without overwhelming debt. Those who thrive here are typically self-motivated individuals who appreciate the autonomy of an online learning environment, making it a good fit for those ready to take charge of their education and career paths.

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