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Fairfield 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
Fairfield Wins
8
Tied / N/A
19
Michigan Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
5,373
Enrollment
40,922
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
85%
1335
SAT Average
1269
29
ACT Midpoint
26
1260-1390
SAT Range
1180-1360

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$16,458
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$43,842
$48,095
Average Net Price
$19,680
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,068
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,830
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$16,521
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$28,546
7%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
34%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
81%
91%
Retention Rate
90%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,468
17%
First-Gen Students
21%

Student Body

65%
Female
55%
79%
White
67%
9%
Hispanic
7%
1%
Black
7%
2%
Asian
8%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.53

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$55,084
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$62,777
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$26,000
Median Debt
$23,250
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.35x
85%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
138.78%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3392.0%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
409.1%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$120,400

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.48
0.03
Friending Bias
0.09
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
7.7%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#122
N/A
Teaching Score
50.4
N/A
Research Score
52.7
N/A
Citations Score
63.7

The Overviews

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · Private nonprofit

33% accept 84% grad $88,794 earnings $48,095 net

Fairfield University has an impressive graduation rate of 84%, indicating that most students successfully complete their degrees. This high rate suggests a strong support system and engaged faculty, which helps students navigate their academic journey.

According to Opportunity Insights data, Fairfield's graduates earn a median income of $88,794 ten years after enrollment. This figure points to the university’s effectiveness in preparing students for the job market, particularly in fields like Business, Health Professions, and Communications. While the Pell Grant rate stands at 7%, indicating limited access for low-income students, the potential for upward mobility remains significant for those who do enroll.

The cost of attending Fairfield is notable, with a net price of $48,095 and a median debt of $26,000. Students who thrive here are often those pursuing careers in high-demand sectors, leveraging the university's strong programs in Business and Health Professions. Graduates leave with solid earning potential, which helps to mitigate the financial burden of 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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