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Drexel University vs Michigan State University

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

19
Drexel Wins
10
Tied / N/A
17
Michigan Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Great Lakes
13,233
Enrollment
40,922
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

79%
Acceptance Rate
85%
1345
SAT Average
1269
29
ACT Midpoint
26
1240-1440
SAT Range
1180-1360

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,412
In-State Tuition
$16,458
$62,412
Out-of-State Tuition
$43,842
$38,509
Average Net Price
$19,680
$28,055
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,068
$29,435
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,830
$34,970
Net Price ($48-75K)
$16,521
$48,089
Net Price ($110K+)
$28,546
27%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
49%
Federal Loan Rate
34%

Academics

78%
Graduation Rate
81%
90%
Retention Rate
90%
58%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$12,380
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,468
29%
First-Gen Students
21%

Student Body

57%
Female
55%
40%
White
67%
9%
Hispanic
7%
10%
Black
7%
24%
Asian
8%
0.75
Diversity Index
0.53

Outcomes

$69,063
Earnings (6yr)
$55,084
$79,235
Earnings (8yr)
$62,777
$84,648
Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$25,325
Median Debt
$23,250
0.3x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.35x
83%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
138.78%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3392.0%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
409.1%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$120,400

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.48
-0.02
Friending Bias
0.09
7.8%
Volunteering Rate
7.7%

Research (Times HE)

#190
World Rank
#122
45
Teaching Score
50.4
35.9
Research Score
52.7
58.2
Citations Score
63.7

The Overviews

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit

79% accept 78% grad $84,648 earnings $38,509 net

With over 13,200 students, Drexel University is a great fit for those seeking a hands-on educational experience, particularly in fields like Engineering, Health Professions, and Business & Marketing. The university's acceptance rate of 79% suggests a welcoming environment, which can be reassuring for students looking for a place where they can thrive academically. Many students appreciate the strong focus on experiential learning, including co-op programs that allow them to gain real-world experience while they study.

After graduation, students from Drexel can expect impressive earning potential, with graduates reporting a median income of $84,648 ten years after completing their degree. This financial outcome is particularly appealing, given how many graduates find themselves in well-paying fields. Affordability is a significant factor too, with a net price of $38,509 after aid, making it accessible for many families. Although the Pell Grant rate sits at 27%, it reflects the university’s commitment to supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds.

When considering the practical aspects, Drexel’s median debt of $25,325 is relatively manageable, especially when balanced against the earning potential. Students who tend to thrive here are often those ready to engage fully in their education, taking advantage of the co-op experiences and networking opportunities available. This proactive approach can really pay off, leading to successful careers and a solid return on investment for their education.

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public

85% accept 81% grad $67,253 earnings $19,680 net

With an enrollment of over 40,000 students, Michigan State University is a vibrant choice for those looking to dive into fields like Business, Biology, Engineering, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 85% means it's accessible, welcoming a diverse range of students who are eager to grow academically and socially. Here, you’ll find a mix of rigorous academic programs and a lively campus life that suits both serious scholars and those looking to make connections.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a median income of $67,253 just ten years post-degree. This indicates that graduates are moving into steady careers that often lead to upward mobility, although specific statistics on mobility are not available. The cost of education is manageable, especially considering the average net price of $19,680 after aid, which makes it an appealing option for many.

When it comes to affordability, the median debt sits at $23,250, which is relatively reasonable given the earning potential. Students who thrive here often take advantage of the large network and resources available, whether through campus organizations or internship opportunities. Overall, Michigan State University attracts those who are ready to engage in a dynamic environment and are focused on building a future that balances education with real-world applicability.

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