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Columbia University in the City of New York vs Fordham University

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

26
Columbia Wins
4
Tied / N/A
12
Fordham Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Mid-Atlantic
8,973
Enrollment
10,512
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
59%
1553
SAT Average
1418
35
ACT Midpoint
32
1510-1580
SAT Range
1320-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$71,845
In-State Tuition
$64,915
$71,845
Out-of-State Tuition
$64,915
$21,590
Average Net Price
$44,338
$4,570
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$32,474
$2,275
Net Price ($30-48K)
$31,657
$5,866
Net Price ($48-75K)
$37,313
$50,621
Net Price ($110K+)
$52,228
23%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
14%
Federal Loan Rate
47%

Academics

96%
Graduation Rate
81%
98%
Retention Rate
89%
43%
Full-Time Faculty
100%
$21,516
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,236
25%
First-Gen Students
18%

Student Body

45%
Female
61%
29%
White
44%
15%
Hispanic
21%
8%
Black
7%
19%
Asian
13%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.73

Outcomes

$88,535
Earnings (6yr)
$68,008
$98,435
Earnings (8yr)
$75,002
$102,491
Earnings (10yr)
$85,569
$21,500
Median Debt
$24,300
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
86%
Earning Above HS
79%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

307.36%
Mobility Rate
397.82%
6121.7%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5209.4%
502.1%
From Bottom 20%
763.7%
$169,600
Parent Median Income
$113,300

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.85
0.03
Friending Bias
0.01
10.3%
Volunteering Rate
8.8%

The Overviews

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · Private nonprofit

4% accept 96% grad $102,491 earnings $21,590 net

Columbia University in the City of New York is an excellent fit for ambitious students who are ready to dive deep into their studies. With an acceptance rate of just 4%, it attracts driven individuals who excel academically. Students here often focus on top programs such as Social Sciences, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Biology & Biomedical, and English & Literature. The tight-knit community and diverse course offerings create an environment where students can thrive.

Life after graduation looks promising for Columbia alumni, with a ten-year earnings average of $102,491. This figure indicates the long-term financial benefits of attending this university. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and often find themselves in positions that allow for upward mobility. The high graduation rate of 96% suggests that most students successfully complete their degrees, which is a strong indicator of the support and resources available.

When it comes to the practical aspects of attending Columbia, the net price after aid is approximately $21,590, which is quite manageable given the high earning potential. With a median debt of $21,500, most graduates come out with a reasonable financial burden. The combination of these factors, along with the strong academic environment, tends to attract students who are not only academically talented but also motivated to make the most of their educational experience.

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · Private nonprofit

59% accept 81% grad $85,569 earnings $44,338 net

With an enrollment of over 10,500 students, Fordham University in the Bronx, NY, caters to those who are serious about their education and looking for a vibrant campus life. The acceptance rate of 59% suggests that while it's competitive, many students have the chance to join a community that values diverse perspectives. Popular areas of study include Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics, Psychology, and Communications, making it an attractive choice for students pursuing both practical and theoretical knowledge.

After graduation, alumni can expect to earn an average of $85,569 within ten years, which reflects the solid grounding they receive in their respective fields. While the details on mobility and economic connectedness aren’t available, it’s clear that a Fordham degree can open doors for many students. The affordability aspect is also worth noting, as it allows for a good return on investment, especially when considering the earnings potential.

The net price after aid stands at $44,338, and with a median debt of $24,300, many graduates find themselves in a manageable financial situation as they start their careers. Students who thrive here tend to be those who actively engage with the community, seek out internships, and take advantage of networking opportunities. Fordham’s supportive environment encourages personal and professional growth, making it a solid choice for those ready to invest in their future.

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