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Fairfield University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

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

12
Fairfield Wins
10
Tied / N/A
20
Pennsylvania Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
5,373
Enrollment
42,284
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1335
SAT Average
1337
29
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1260-1390
SAT Range
1240-1420

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$20,644
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,790
$48,095
Average Net Price
$32,875
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$19,845
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$20,049
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$25,667
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$37,831
7%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
40%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
86%
91%
Retention Rate
93%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,120
17%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

65%
Female
50%
79%
White
63%
9%
Hispanic
9%
1%
Black
5%
2%
Asian
8%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.58

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$55,620
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$60,370
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$63,435
$26,000
Median Debt
$25,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39x
85%
Earning Above HS
73%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
N/A
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$151,500
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.71
0.03
Friending Bias
0.00
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
6.0%

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.

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PA · Public

61% accept 86% grad $63,435 earnings $32,875 net

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

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