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Fairfield University vs Southern New Hampshire University

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

16
Fairfield Wins
12
Tied / N/A
14
Southern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
New England
5,373
Enrollment
163,164
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
100%
1335
SAT Average
N/A
29
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1260-1390
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$17,200
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$17,200
$48,095
Average Net Price
$36,708
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$36,441
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$36,536
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$36,641
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$38,025
7%
Pell Grant Rate
49%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
58%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
44%
91%
Retention Rate
61%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
100%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$9,805
17%
First-Gen Students
48%

Student Body

65%
Female
68%
79%
White
50%
9%
Hispanic
15%
1%
Black
20%
2%
Asian
2%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.69

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$41,945
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$43,845
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$50,318
$26,000
Median Debt
$21,082
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.42x
85%
Earning Above HS
75%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
144.06%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
2580.2%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
558.3%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$85,800

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
N/A
0.03
Friending Bias
N/A
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

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.

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH · Private nonprofit

100% accept 44% grad $50,318 earnings $36,708 net

With an enrollment of over 163,000 students, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a place where a diverse range of learners can thrive, particularly those pursuing degrees in Business & Marketing, Psychology, Computer Science & IT, Humanities, and Health Professions. The school's 100% acceptance rate opens the door for many, creating an inclusive atmosphere. This setup is ideal for students looking for flexibility in their education, whether they’re fresh out of high school or returning to school after some time away.

After graduation, students at SNHU can expect to earn around $50,318 within a decade, which is a decent starting point for many. This aligns well with the school's focus on practical, career-oriented programs. While the graduation rate sits at 44%, those who complete their degrees are often better positioned for upward mobility in the job market, especially in fields like business and technology. The affordability factor plays a role here, too, as nearly half of the students receive Pell Grants, which can make a significant difference in financing education.

When it comes to the cost of attending SNHU, the net price is approximately $36,708 after financial aid, which can seem daunting at first glance. However, the median debt upon graduation is $21,082, a figure that many find manageable in the context of their potential earnings. Students who tend to thrive here are often those looking for a supportive environment and a clear path to career opportunities, making it a solid choice for individuals ready to invest in their future.

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