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Clemson University vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

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

5
Clemson Wins
14
Tied / N/A
27
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Great Lakes
23,300
Enrollment
34,177
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
16%
1353
SAT Average
1465
30
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1240-1410
SAT Range
1360-1530

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$17,736
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$60,946
$22,253
Average Net Price
$13,138
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,043
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$1,878
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$4,895
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$26,517
15%
Pell Grant Rate
18%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
93%
93%
Retention Rate
97%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
82%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,384
17%
First-Gen Students
21%

Student Body

50%
Female
53%
76%
White
47%
9%
Hispanic
12%
5%
Black
5%
3%
Asian
18%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.72

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$73,762
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$78,273
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$83,648
$21,500
Median Debt
$19,500
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.23x
78%
Earning Above HS
80%

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
1.61
0.01
Friending Bias
0.08
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

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.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public

16% accept 93% grad $83,648 earnings $13,138 net

With an enrollment of nearly 34,200 students, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a vibrant and competitive environment suited for those who thrive in large, diverse settings. The acceptance rate of just 16% means that the university attracts a motivated student body. Here, students dive into popular programs like Computer Science & IT, Engineering, and Business & Marketing, allowing them to engage deeply with their fields while also enjoying the resources of a large public university.

Looking at life after graduation, graduates from Michigan can expect to earn about $83,648 within ten years of completing their degrees. This level of earnings reflects the strong career support and alumni network that helps many students advance in their careers. The university’s high graduation rate of 93% speaks to the commitment of faculty and students alike, ensuring that most make it through to graduation, which is a key factor in securing better job opportunities.

When considering the financial aspect, the net price for students after financial aid is around $13,138, making it a reasonably affordable choice given the quality of education received. With a median debt of $19,500, most graduates leave with manageable loans, especially in light of their earning potential. Students who excel here often share a drive to succeed and a passion for their chosen fields, making Michigan a great fit for those eager to make an impact in their careers.

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