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Colgate University vs Western Governors University

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

12
Colgate Wins
16
Tied / N/A
14
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Rural
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Rocky Mountains
3,180
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

14%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1508
SAT Average
N/A
33
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1430-1540
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$70,306
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$70,306
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$28,786
Average Net Price
$12,548
$6,086
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$2,678
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$13,617
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$48,234
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
13%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
12%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

91%
Graduation Rate
48%
93%
Retention Rate
65%
93%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$13,098
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
18%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

58%
Female
69%
64%
White
50%
10%
Hispanic
16%
4%
Black
14%
5%
Asian
4%
0.56
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$64,949
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$74,696
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$85,139
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$15,000
Median Debt
$11,116
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
79%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

87.41%
Mobility Rate
N/A
3653.6%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
239.2%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$208,900
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.86
Economic Connectedness
N/A
0.01
Friending Bias
N/A
9.4%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

The Overviews

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $85,139 earnings $28,786 net

With an acceptance rate of just 14%, Colgate University attracts students who are serious about their education and ready to engage deeply with their studies. This school is a great fit for those interested in fields like Social Sciences, Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, and Physical Sciences. The tight-knit community and emphasis on critical thinking make it a place where students can really thrive.

After graduation, Colgate alums see an impressive median earnings of $85,139 after ten years. This strong financial outcome reflects not just the quality of education, but also the commitment of students to leverage their degrees in meaningful ways. While the Pell Grant rate sits at 13%, the majority of students manage to find success in their careers, illustrating that hard work and dedication pay off.

On the practical side, the net price after aid stands at $28,786, which is manageable compared to the potential earnings. The median debt of $15,000 is relatively low, suggesting that most students graduate with a solid financial footing. Those who tend to thrive here are motivated individuals seeking a challenging academic environment and who value the connections made during their time at Colgate.

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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