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Clarkson University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

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

8
Clarkson Wins
5
Tied / N/A
29
Columbia Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
2,196
Enrollment
8,973
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

77%
Acceptance Rate
4%
1304
SAT Average
1553
29
ACT Midpoint
35
1200-1390
SAT Range
1510-1580

Cost & Financial Aid

$59,398
In-State Tuition
$71,845
$59,398
Out-of-State Tuition
$71,845
$30,305
Average Net Price
$21,590
$21,335
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,570
$19,934
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,275
$23,321
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,866
$35,757
Net Price ($110K+)
$50,621
22%
Pell Grant Rate
23%
62%
Federal Loan Rate
14%

Academics

74%
Graduation Rate
96%
85%
Retention Rate
98%
78%
Full-Time Faculty
43%
$11,357
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$21,516
15%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

30%
Female
45%
74%
White
29%
13%
Hispanic
15%
3%
Black
8%
2%
Asian
19%
0.43
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$76,970
Earnings (6yr)
$88,535
$78,777
Earnings (8yr)
$98,435
$89,696
Earnings (10yr)
$102,491
$26,000
Median Debt
$21,500
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.21x
86%
Earning Above HS
86%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

296.70%
Mobility Rate
307.36%
5299.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6121.7%
559.9%
From Bottom 20%
502.1%
$94,600
Parent Median Income
$169,600

Social Capital

1.70
Economic Connectedness
1.82
-0.03
Friending Bias
0.03
5.3%
Volunteering Rate
10.3%

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.

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · Private nonprofit

4% accept 96% grad $102,491 earnings $21,590 net

Columbia University in the City of New York is an excellent fit for ambitious students who are ready to dive deep into their studies. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, it attracts driven individuals who excel academically. Students here often focus on top programs such as Social Sciences, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Biology & Biomedical, and English & Literature. The tight-knit community and diverse course offerings create an environment where students can thrive.

Life after graduation looks promising for Columbia alumni, with a ten-year earnings average of $102,491. This figure indicates the long-term financial benefits of attending this university. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and often find themselves in positions that allow for upward mobility. The high graduation rate of 96% suggests that most students successfully complete their degrees, which is a strong indicator of the support and resources available.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Columbia, the net price after aid is approximately $21,590, which is quite manageable given the high earning potential. With a median debt of $21,500, most graduates come out with a reasonable financial burden. The combination of these factors, along with the strong academic environment, tends to attract students who are not only academically talented but also motivated to make the most of their educational experience.

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