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Fairfield University vs Rutgers University-New Brunswick

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

9
Fairfield Wins
10
Tied / N/A
23
Rutgers Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
5,373
Enrollment
37,751
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
58%
1335
SAT Average
1410
29
ACT Midpoint
30
1260-1390
SAT Range
1310-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$17,929
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$37,441
$48,095
Average Net Price
$24,406
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$16,343
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$16,210
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$18,282
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,016
7%
Pell Grant Rate
28%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
35%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
84%
91%
Retention Rate
93%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
53%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,593
17%
First-Gen Students
35%

Student Body

65%
Female
55%
79%
White
30%
9%
Hispanic
16%
1%
Black
7%
2%
Asian
34%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$61,263
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$67,665
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$74,479
$26,000
Median Debt
$21,500
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.29x
85%
Earning Above HS
76%

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
1.76
0.03
Friending Bias
0.02
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
7.4%

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.

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ · Public

58% accept 84% grad $74,479 earnings $24,406 net

With an enrollment of over 37,000 students, Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a great fit for those who thrive in a vibrant, diverse environment. The school stands out for its strong programs in Business and Marketing, Computer Science, Engineering, Health Professions, and Biology. If you're looking to dive into a field with solid job prospects and a supportive academic community, this could be your place.

When we look at what happens after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn an average of $74,479 within a decade of finishing their degrees. That’s a solid return on investment, especially when you consider the affordability of Rutgers. The net price after financial aid is $24,406, which is reasonable given the earning potential. This environment supports students not just in their studies, but in launching successful careers.

Now, let’s talk about the practical side of things. With a median debt of $21,500, students often leave with manageable loans, especially if they utilize financial aid options. The blend of affordability and strong career outcomes suggests that students who put in the effort here tend to thrive, especially those who are driven and engaged. If you're ready to take on challenges and make the most of your education, Rutgers can be a great stepping stone to your future.

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