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Fairfield University vs Northeastern University

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

8
Fairfield Wins
10
Tied / N/A
28
Northeastern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
New England
5,373
Enrollment
17,326
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1335
SAT Average
1497
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1260-1390
SAT Range
1440-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$66,162
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$66,162
$48,095
Average Net Price
$30,915
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,264
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,436
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,301
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$47,696
7%
Pell Grant Rate
12%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
27%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
90%
91%
Retention Rate
97%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
70%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,218
17%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

65%
Female
54%
79%
White
40%
9%
Hispanic
10%
1%
Black
5%
2%
Asian
22%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$78,413
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$82,813
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$92,538
$26,000
Median Debt
$24,250
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.26x
85%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
243.76%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4736.7%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
514.6%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$108,300

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.79
0.03
Friending Bias
0.03
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.4%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#201-225
N/A
Teaching Score
30.4
N/A
Research Score
18.9
N/A
Citations Score
70

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.

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

5% accept 90% grad $92,538 earnings $30,915 net

Northeastern University in Boston is an excellent fit for students who are driven and ready to engage in a highly competitive academic environment. With an acceptance rate of just 5%, it attracts those who excel in their studies and seek a dynamic campus experience. Students here often dive into popular programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science & IT, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. This variety allows for a rich educational experience and a chance to connect with peers across different fields.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates can expect to earn an average of $92,538 within ten years of completing their degree. This figure highlights the potential for upward mobility, especially considering the strong graduation rate of 90%. While affordability can be a concern for many students, the financial landscape here is manageable, with a net price of $30,915 after aid. This balance between cost and earning potential is a significant advantage for graduates.

When it comes to practical considerations, the typical debt load for students at Northeastern is around $24,250. This is relatively low compared to their earning potential, making it easier for graduates to pay off loans while enjoying their careers. The environment here tends to suit those who are ambitious and ready to take advantage of the university's extensive resources and networking opportunities. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and values real-world experience alongside academic rigor, Northeastern could be a great choice for you.

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