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Clemson University vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

6
Clemson Wins
11
Tied / N/A
29
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Great Lakes
23,300
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

38%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1353
SAT Average
1427
30
ACT Midpoint
29
1240-1410
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$22,253
Average Net Price
$17,354
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
15%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
89%
93%
Retention Rate
96%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
17%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

50%
Female
53%
76%
White
59%
9%
Hispanic
9%
5%
Black
2%
3%
Asian
11%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$21,500
Median Debt
$20,484
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
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
1.78
0.01
Friending Bias
0.00
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

#350-400
World Rank
#27
20.8
Teaching Score
74.3
17
Research Score
77.3
25.5
Citations Score
90.6

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 Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI · Public

45% accept 89% grad $73,792 earnings $17,354 net

With an enrollment of nearly 37,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a strong choice for those who thrive in a vibrant, diverse environment. If you’re interested in fields like Business, Biology, or Computer Science, this school has solid programs that cater to your academic interests. The acceptance rate of 45% suggests a competitive atmosphere, but it’s also a place where students can find community and support among their peers.

Looking at outcomes, graduates from Wisconsin-Madison earn an average of $73,792 within ten years of completing their degree. This strong earning potential points to a positive return on investment for students. With a graduation rate of 89%, most students are not just moving through their programs but are also finding pathways to success after college. The affordability is another key factor, with a net price of $17,354, making it accessible for many families.

When it comes to finances, students graduate with a median debt of $20,484, which is manageable for the earnings they can expect. This balance between cost and potential earnings makes it a pragmatic choice for many. Students who tend to thrive here are those who take advantage of the resources available, engage in their studies, and connect with the vibrant campus life in Madison.

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