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Clemson University vs Northeastern University

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

10
Clemson Wins
6
Tied / N/A
30
Northeastern Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
New England
23,300
Enrollment
17,326
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1353
SAT Average
1497
30
ACT Midpoint
34
1240-1410
SAT Range
1440-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$66,162
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$66,162
$22,253
Average Net Price
$30,915
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,264
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,436
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,301
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$47,696
15%
Pell Grant Rate
12%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
27%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
90%
93%
Retention Rate
97%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
70%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,218
17%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

50%
Female
54%
76%
White
40%
9%
Hispanic
10%
5%
Black
5%
3%
Asian
22%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$78,413
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$82,813
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$92,538
$21,500
Median Debt
$24,250
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.26x
78%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

120.14%
Mobility Rate
243.76%
3784.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4736.7%
317.5%
From Bottom 20%
514.6%
$120,200
Parent Median Income
$108,300

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.79
0.01
Friending Bias
0.03
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
8.4%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
#201-225
20.8
Teaching Score
30.4
17
Research Score
18.9
25.5
Citations Score
70

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.

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

5% accept 90% grad $92,538 earnings $30,915 net

Northeastern University in Boston is an excellent fit for students who are driven and ready to engage in a highly competitive academic environment. With an acceptance rate of just 5%, it attracts those who excel in their studies and seek a dynamic campus experience. Students here often dive into popular programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science & IT, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. This variety allows for a rich educational experience and a chance to connect with peers across different fields.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates can expect to earn an average of $92,538 within ten years of completing their degree. This figure highlights the potential for upward mobility, especially considering the strong graduation rate of 90%. While affordability can be a concern for many students, the financial landscape here is manageable, with a net price of $30,915 after aid. This balance between cost and earning potential is a significant advantage for graduates.

When it comes to practical considerations, the typical debt load for students at Northeastern is around $24,250. This is relatively low compared to their earning potential, making it easier for graduates to pay off loans while enjoying their careers. The environment here tends to suit those who are ambitious and ready to take advantage of the university's extensive resources and networking opportunities. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and values real-world experience alongside academic rigor, Northeastern could be a great choice for you.

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