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Fairfield University vs University of Wisconsin-Madison

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

9
Fairfield Wins
15
Tied / N/A
22
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Public
Suburban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Great Lakes
5,373
Enrollment
36,902
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

33%
Acceptance Rate
45%
1335
SAT Average
1427
29
ACT Midpoint
29
1260-1390
SAT Range
1380-1520

Cost & Financial Aid

$58,350
In-State Tuition
$11,603
$58,350
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
$48,095
Average Net Price
$17,354
$33,302
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,200
$35,155
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,101
$26,953
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,134
$50,773
Net Price ($110K+)
$27,292
7%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
43%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

84%
Graduation Rate
89%
91%
Retention Rate
96%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$13,298
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,643
17%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

65%
Female
53%
79%
White
59%
9%
Hispanic
9%
1%
Black
2%
2%
Asian
11%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.62

Outcomes

$73,693
Earnings (6yr)
$61,275
$87,663
Earnings (8yr)
$69,868
$88,794
Earnings (10yr)
$73,792
$26,000
Median Debt
$20,484
0.29x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
85%
Earning Above HS
80%

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
1.78
0.03
Friending Bias
0.00
3.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#27
N/A
Teaching Score
74.3
N/A
Research Score
77.3
N/A
Citations Score
90.6

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 Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI · Public

45% accept 89% grad $73,792 earnings $17,354 net

With an enrollment of nearly 37,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a strong choice for those who thrive in a vibrant, diverse environment. If you’re interested in fields like Business, Biology, or Computer Science, this school has solid programs that cater to your academic interests. The acceptance rate of 45% suggests a competitive atmosphere, but it’s also a place where students can find community and support among their peers.

Looking at outcomes, graduates from Wisconsin-Madison earn an average of $73,792 within ten years of completing their degree. This strong earning potential points to a positive return on investment for students. With a graduation rate of 89%, most students are not just moving through their programs but are also finding pathways to success after college. The affordability is another key factor, with a net price of $17,354, making it accessible for many families.

When it comes to finances, students graduate with a median debt of $20,484, which is manageable for the earnings they can expect. This balance between cost and potential earnings makes it a pragmatic choice for many. Students who tend to thrive here are those who take advantage of the resources available, engage in their studies, and connect with the vibrant campus life in Madison.

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