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Clemson University vs Ohio State University-Main Campus

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

11
Clemson Wins
13
Tied / N/A
22
Ohio Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Great Lakes
23,300
Enrollment
45,638
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1353
SAT Average
1387
30
ACT Midpoint
29
1240-1410
SAT Range
1310-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$13,244
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,022
$22,253
Average Net Price
$17,339
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,885
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$5,751
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,807
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,359
15%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
29%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
88%
93%
Retention Rate
94%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
63%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,386
17%
First-Gen Students
26%

Student Body

50%
Female
52%
76%
White
60%
9%
Hispanic
6%
5%
Black
8%
3%
Asian
11%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.61

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$51,438
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$56,186
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$60,409
$21,500
Median Debt
$19,976
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.33x
78%
Earning Above HS
72%

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
1.57
0.01
Friending Bias
0.03
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
8.5%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
N/A
20.8
Teaching Score
N/A
17
Research Score
N/A
25.5
Citations Score
N/A

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.

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH · Public

61% accept 88% grad $60,409 earnings $17,339 net

With an enrollment of over 45,600 students, Ohio State University-Main Campus is a vibrant place for those seeking a large, diverse community. It attracts students who are eager to explore a variety of fields, especially in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Health Professions, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 61% means there's a good chance for students to join this dynamic environment, where the graduation rate stands impressively at 88%.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn a median salary of $60,409 within ten years of completing their degree. This level of income can make a significant difference in improving one’s quality of life, particularly when the cost of attending is manageable. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, Ohio State shows a commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds, providing pathways for upward mobility.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price after aid is approximately $17,339, which keeps college within reach for many families. The median debt load of $19,976 is relatively low compared to what students at other public institutions might face. This combination of affordability and strong outcomes makes Ohio State a fitting choice for motivated students who are ready to thrive in a collaborative and engaging setting.

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