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Clemson University vs Santa Clara University

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

15
Clemson Wins
9
Tied / N/A
22
Santa Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Far West
23,300
Enrollment
6,552
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
48%
1353
SAT Average
1426
30
ACT Midpoint
32
1240-1410
SAT Range
1350-1490

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$61,293
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,293
$22,253
Average Net Price
$50,062
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$22,985
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$19,154
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$26,531
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$60,678
15%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
37%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
88%
93%
Retention Rate
94%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
72%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,682
17%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

50%
Female
54%
76%
White
37%
9%
Hispanic
20%
5%
Black
3%
3%
Asian
21%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.77

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$91,198
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$99,543
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$109,183
$21,500
Median Debt
$19,162
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
78%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

120.14%
Mobility Rate
224.68%
3784.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6203.6%
317.5%
From Bottom 20%
362.2%
$120,200
Parent Median Income
$149,900

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.89
0.01
Friending Bias
-0.00
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
6.6%

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.

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · Private nonprofit

48% accept 88% grad $109,183 earnings $50,062 net

Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 88%, indicating strong student success and support. This high rate suggests that students are not only enrolling but also completing their degrees in a timely manner, which is crucial for their future careers.

The earnings data for graduates is impressive. Ten years after graduation, alumni earn a median salary of $109,183. This figure highlights the potential return on investment for students considering their financial futures. However, with a net price of $50,062 and median debt at $19,162, students should weigh the cost of attendance against their anticipated earnings.

Students who thrive at Santa Clara typically pursue majors in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Social Sciences, Communications, or Psychology. The campus environment supports those who are motivated and engaged in their studies. With a moderate acceptance rate of 48%, the university attracts a diverse group of students ready to take advantage of the academic opportunities available.

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