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Clarkson University vs Clemson University

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

15
Clarkson Wins
8
Tied / N/A
23
Clemson Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Town
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Southeast
2,196
Enrollment
23,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

77%
Acceptance Rate
38%
1304
SAT Average
1353
29
ACT Midpoint
30
1200-1390
SAT Range
1240-1410

Cost & Financial Aid

$59,398
In-State Tuition
$15,554
$59,398
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,866
$30,305
Average Net Price
$22,253
$21,335
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,607
$19,934
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,109
$23,321
Net Price ($48-75K)
$18,851
$35,757
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,922
22%
Pell Grant Rate
15%
62%
Federal Loan Rate
31%

Academics

74%
Graduation Rate
87%
85%
Retention Rate
93%
78%
Full-Time Faculty
88%
$11,357
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$12,153
15%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

30%
Female
50%
74%
White
76%
13%
Hispanic
9%
3%
Black
5%
2%
Asian
3%
0.43
Diversity Index
0.41

Outcomes

$76,970
Earnings (6yr)
$58,311
$78,777
Earnings (8yr)
$65,822
$89,696
Earnings (10yr)
$71,513
$26,000
Median Debt
$21,500
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.3x
86%
Earning Above HS
78%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

296.70%
Mobility Rate
120.14%
5299.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3784.3%
559.9%
From Bottom 20%
317.5%
$94,600
Parent Median Income
$120,200

Social Capital

1.70
Economic Connectedness
1.57
-0.03
Friending Bias
0.01
5.3%
Volunteering Rate
5.0%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#350-400
N/A
Teaching Score
20.8
N/A
Research Score
17
N/A
Citations Score
25.5

The Overviews

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · Private nonprofit

77% accept 74% grad $89,696 earnings $30,305 net

With an acceptance rate of 77%, Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, is a solid choice for students seeking a blend of academic rigor and community feel. It's particularly suitable for those interested in fields like Engineering, Business and Marketing, Biology, Computer Science, and Psychology. The hands-on learning and collaborative environment stand out, making it easier for students to connect their studies to real-world applications.

Looking at what comes after graduation, the average earnings ten years out is $89,696. This figure is telling; it suggests that graduates from Clarkson tend to find good job opportunities that lead to solid financial stability. While the median debt is $26,000, the affordability of education here can help mitigate the long-term financial burden for many students.

When we talk about the practical side of attending Clarkson, the net price after aid hovers around $30,305. This cost is manageable compared to what many private institutions charge, especially when considering the potential return on investment. Students who thrive here are typically those who are proactive, engaged, and eager to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The supportive campus community also plays a role in helping students succeed.

Clemson University

Clemson, SC · Public

38% accept 87% grad $71,513 earnings $22,253 net

Clemson University is a great fit for students who seek a strong sense of community and a variety of academic paths. With around 23,300 undergraduates, there’s a vibrant campus life, and the acceptance rate of 38% means it’s selective but still accessible for many. Students frequently dive into programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Biology & Biomedical, which are well-regarded and align with industry needs.

Looking ahead, graduates from Clemson can expect promising outcomes. The average earnings a decade after graduation sit at $71,513, which reflects the value of their education in real-world terms. While the affordability of higher education continues to be a concern, Clemson’s net price after aid is around $22,253, making it a reasonable option for many families. This financial aspect is crucial, especially when considering long-term financial mobility.

On a practical level, students here graduate with a median debt of $21,500, which is manageable given their earning potential. Those who thrive at Clemson tend to be proactive and engaged, taking advantage of both educational and extracurricular opportunities. With a graduation rate of 87%, it’s clear that many find their stride and succeed in completing their degrees, setting them up for a bright future.

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