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Fordham University vs Northwestern University

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

13
Fordham Wins
9
Tied / N/A
24
Northwestern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Great Lakes
10,512
Enrollment
9,201
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

59%
Acceptance Rate
8%
1418
SAT Average
1533
32
ACT Midpoint
35
1320-1480
SAT Range
1510-1570

Cost & Financial Aid

$64,915
In-State Tuition
$68,322
$64,915
Out-of-State Tuition
$68,322
$44,338
Average Net Price
$29,167
$32,474
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$1,764
$31,657
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,099
$37,313
Net Price ($48-75K)
$7,898
$52,228
Net Price ($110K+)
$48,777
21%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
47%
Federal Loan Rate
17%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
96%
89%
Retention Rate
98%
100%
Full-Time Faculty
83%
$16,236
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$20,322
18%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

61%
Female
52%
44%
White
31%
21%
Hispanic
16%
7%
Black
8%
13%
Asian
21%
0.73
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$68,008
Earnings (6yr)
$76,844
$75,002
Earnings (8yr)
$83,487
$85,569
Earnings (10yr)
$89,363
$24,300
Median Debt
$15,000
0.28x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.17x
79%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

397.82%
Mobility Rate
169.42%
5209.4%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5518.6%
763.7%
From Bottom 20%
307.0%
$113,300
Parent Median Income
$168,500

Social Capital

1.85
Economic Connectedness
1.83
0.01
Friending Bias
0.01
8.8%
Volunteering Rate
11.3%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#25
N/A
Teaching Score
64.5
N/A
Research Score
68.8
N/A
Citations Score
95.3

The Overviews

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · Private nonprofit

59% accept 81% grad $85,569 earnings $44,338 net

With an enrollment of over 10,500 students, Fordham University in the Bronx, NY, caters to those who are serious about their education and looking for a vibrant campus life. The acceptance rate of 59% suggests that while it's competitive, many students have the chance to join a community that values diverse perspectives. Popular areas of study include Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics, Psychology, and Communications, making it an attractive choice for students pursuing both practical and theoretical knowledge.

After graduation, alumni can expect to earn an average of $85,569 within ten years, which reflects the solid grounding they receive in their respective fields. While the details on mobility and economic connectedness aren’t available, it’s clear that a Fordham degree can open doors for many students. The affordability aspect is also worth noting, as it allows for a good return on investment, especially when considering the earnings potential.

The net price after aid stands at $44,338, and with a median debt of $24,300, many graduates find themselves in a manageable financial situation as they start their careers. Students who thrive here tend to be those who actively engage with the community, seek out internships, and take advantage of networking opportunities. Fordham’s supportive environment encourages personal and professional growth, making it a solid choice for those ready to invest in their future.

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · Private nonprofit

8% accept 96% grad $89,363 earnings $29,167 net

Northwestern University has an impressive graduation rate of 96%, indicating strong student support and academic success. This high rate reflects the university’s commitment to helping students complete their degrees on time. With an acceptance rate of just 8%, gaining admission is highly competitive, attracting top talent from across the country.

The earnings potential for graduates is significant, with a 10-year median income of $89,363. This figure suggests that students who attend Northwestern can expect a strong return on their investment. However, 19% of students receive Pell Grants, which highlights that some students come from lower-income backgrounds, yet still have the opportunity to thrive here.

The net price for attending Northwestern is $29,167, and the median debt is relatively low at $15,000, making it more manageable for graduates. Students who excel here often pursue majors in engineering, social sciences, and communications. Those who thrive at Northwestern are typically motivated and high-achieving individuals, ready to engage in a challenging academic environment.

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