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Fairfield University vs University of Southern California

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

10
Fairfield Wins
9
Tied / N/A
27
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Far West
5,373
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1335
SAT Average
1495
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1260-1390
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$48,095
Average Net Price
$32,740
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
7%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
92%
91%
Retention Rate
96%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
17%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

65%
Female
55%
79%
White
26%
9%
Hispanic
20%
1%
Black
7%
2%
Asian
23%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$26,000
Median Debt
$18,000
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
85%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

157.73%
Mobility Rate
393.30%
6319.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
249.6%
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
$151,500
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.03
Friending Bias
0.03
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#73
N/A
Teaching Score
65.4
N/A
Research Score
48.7
N/A
Citations Score
71.9

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.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit

10% accept 92% grad $92,498 earnings $32,740 net

The University of Southern California has an impressive graduation rate of 92%. This reflects the institution's strong commitment to student success and academic support. Students here are likely to find a community that encourages them to complete their degrees on time.

According to data from Opportunity Insights, while specific mobility metrics are not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are able to improve their economic prospects through education. Graduates from USC earn a median salary of $92,498 a decade after leaving, indicating a solid return on investment for their education.

The cost of attendance at USC is $32,740, with a median debt of $18,000 for those who borrow. This financial landscape makes it essential for prospective students to consider their funding options. Students who thrive at USC often have a clear focus on their career paths, particularly in fields like business, arts, and technology.

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