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Clemson University vs Drexel University

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

17
Clemson Wins
12
Tied / N/A
17
Drexel Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Mid-Atlantic
23,300
Enrollment
13,233
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
79%
1353
SAT Average
1345
30
ACT Midpoint
29
1240-1410
SAT Range
1240-1440

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$62,412
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$62,412
$22,253
Average Net Price
$38,509
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$28,055
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$29,435
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$34,970
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,089
15%
Pell Grant Rate
27%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
49%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
78%
93%
Retention Rate
90%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
58%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$12,380
17%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

50%
Female
57%
76%
White
40%
9%
Hispanic
9%
5%
Black
10%
3%
Asian
24%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.75

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$69,063
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$79,235
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$84,648
$21,500
Median Debt
$25,325
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.3x
78%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

120.14%
Mobility Rate
N/A
3784.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
317.5%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$120,200
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.01
Friending Bias
-0.02
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
7.8%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
#190
20.8
Teaching Score
45
17
Research Score
35.9
25.5
Citations Score
58.2

The Overviews

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.

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit

79% accept 78% grad $84,648 earnings $38,509 net

With over 13,200 students, Drexel University is a great fit for those seeking a hands-on educational experience, particularly in fields like Engineering, Health Professions, and Business & Marketing. The university's acceptance rate of 79% suggests a welcoming environment, which can be reassuring for students looking for a place where they can thrive academically. Many students appreciate the strong focus on experiential learning, including co-op programs that allow them to gain real-world experience while they study.

After graduation, students from Drexel can expect impressive earning potential, with graduates reporting a median income of $84,648 ten years after completing their degree. This financial outcome is particularly appealing, given how many graduates find themselves in well-paying fields. Affordability is a significant factor too, with a net price of $38,509 after aid, making it accessible for many families. Although the Pell Grant rate sits at 27%, it reflects the university’s commitment to supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds.

When considering the practical aspects, Drexel’s median debt of $25,325 is relatively manageable, especially when balanced against the earning potential. Students who tend to thrive here are often those ready to engage fully in their education, taking advantage of the co-op experiences and networking opportunities available. This proactive approach can really pay off, leading to successful careers and a solid return on investment for their education.

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