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Clemson University vs Michigan State University

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

23
Clemson Wins
5
Tied / N/A
18
Michigan Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Great Lakes
23,300
Enrollment
40,922
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
85%
1353
SAT Average
1269
30
ACT Midpoint
26
1240-1410
SAT Range
1180-1360

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$16,458
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$43,842
$22,253
Average Net Price
$19,680
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,068
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,830
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$16,521
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$28,546
15%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
34%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
81%
93%
Retention Rate
90%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,468
17%
First-Gen Students
21%

Student Body

50%
Female
55%
76%
White
67%
9%
Hispanic
7%
5%
Black
7%
3%
Asian
8%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.53

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$55,084
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$62,777
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$21,500
Median Debt
$23,250
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.35x
78%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

120.14%
Mobility Rate
138.78%
3784.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3392.0%
317.5%
From Bottom 20%
409.1%
$120,200
Parent Median Income
$120,400

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.48
0.01
Friending Bias
0.09
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
7.7%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
#122
20.8
Teaching Score
50.4
17
Research Score
52.7
25.5
Citations Score
63.7

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.

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public

85% accept 81% grad $67,253 earnings $19,680 net

With an enrollment of over 40,000 students, Michigan State University is a vibrant choice for those looking to dive into fields like Business, Biology, Engineering, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 85% means it's accessible, welcoming a diverse range of students who are eager to grow academically and socially. Here, you’ll find a mix of rigorous academic programs and a lively campus life that suits both serious scholars and those looking to make connections.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a median income of $67,253 just ten years post-degree. This indicates that graduates are moving into steady careers that often lead to upward mobility, although specific statistics on mobility are not available. The cost of education is manageable, especially considering the average net price of $19,680 after aid, which makes it an appealing option for many.

When it comes to affordability, the median debt sits at $23,250, which is relatively reasonable given the earning potential. Students who thrive here often take advantage of the large network and resources available, whether through campus organizations or internship opportunities. Overall, Michigan State University attracts those who are ready to engage in a dynamic environment and are focused on building a future that balances education with real-world applicability.

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