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Clemson University vs Western Governors University

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

8
Clemson Wins
19
Tied / N/A
19
Western Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Suburban
Southeast
Region
Rocky Mountains
23,300
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

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

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,554
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$40,866
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$22,253
Average Net Price
$12,548
$13,607
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$14,109
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$18,851
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$27,922
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
15%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
31%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
48%
93%
Retention Rate
65%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$12,153
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
17%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

50%
Female
69%
76%
White
50%
9%
Hispanic
16%
5%
Black
14%
3%
Asian
4%
0.41
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$58,311
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$65,822
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$71,513
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$21,500
Median Debt
$11,116
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
78%
Earning Above HS
71%

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
N/A
0.01
Friending Bias
N/A
5.0%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

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.

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit

48% grad $60,615 earnings $12,548 net

With an enrollment of 155,088 students, Western Governors University in Salt Lake City stands out as a solid choice for those seeking flexibility in their education. It caters well to non-traditional students, particularly in fields like Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Education, and Engineering. The online format allows for self-paced learning, which is ideal for working adults or those balancing multiple responsibilities.

Looking at life after graduation, students can expect a median earning of $60,615 ten years post-degree. This figure suggests that graduates are finding solid job opportunities. While the graduation rate is 48%, the income potential indicates that those who complete their programs are likely to see a good return on their investment, despite the challenges that might come with juggling work and studies.

On the practical side, the net price after aid comes in at $12,548, with a median debt of $11,116. This suggests that many students can manage their educational expenses without overwhelming debt. Those who thrive here are typically self-motivated individuals who appreciate the autonomy of an online learning environment, making it a good fit for those ready to take charge of their education and career paths.

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