Skip to content
CollegeRanker

Compare

Clarkson University vs Harvard University

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

11
Clarkson Wins
8
Tied / N/A
27
Harvard Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
2,196
Enrollment
7,601
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
$61,676
$59,398
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,676
$30,305
Average Net Price
$19,066
$21,335
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,697
$19,934
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,991
$23,321
Net Price ($48-75K)
$2,091
$35,757
Net Price ($110K+)
$53,337
22%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
62%
Federal Loan Rate
4%

Academics

74%
Graduation Rate
97%
85%
Retention Rate
98%
78%
Full-Time Faculty
87%
$11,357
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$25,048
15%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

30%
Female
50%
74%
White
31%
13%
Hispanic
12%
3%
Black
9%
2%
Asian
22%
0.43
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$76,970
Earnings (6yr)
$99,572
$78,777
Earnings (8yr)
$101,095
$89,696
Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$26,000
Median Debt
$14,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14x
86%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

296.70%
Mobility Rate
175.92%
5299.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5774.2%
559.9%
From Bottom 20%
304.7%
$94,600
Parent Median Income
$174,000

Social Capital

1.70
Economic Connectedness
1.69
-0.03
Friending Bias
0.02
5.3%
Volunteering Rate
9.6%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#1
N/A
Teaching Score
99.7
N/A
Research Score
98.7
N/A
Citations Score
98.8

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.

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit

4% accept 97% grad $101,817 earnings $19,066 net

With an acceptance rate of just 4%, Harvard University is a place where the most driven and ambitious students find their footing. It’s especially suitable for those drawn to rigorous academic programs like Social Sciences, Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physical Sciences. The environment here encourages intellectual curiosity and a commitment to excellence, attracting a diverse group of scholars who are ready to engage deeply with their studies.

After graduation, the financial outlook is promising, with alumni earning an average of $101,817 within ten years. This level of earning power is a significant motivator for students considering their future. While the cost of education is an important factor, many graduates see a strong return on their investment, which makes the financial commitment worthwhile for those who can navigate the admissions process.

When we look at the practical aspects, the net price after aid stands at $19,066, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $14,000. This financial structure allows students to focus on their education without being overwhelmed by debt. Those who thrive at Harvard often share a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world, making the most of the resources and opportunities available to them.

Sponsored

Compare Accredited Programs Accepting Applicants

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

Ad