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Harvard University vs Western Governors University

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

15
Harvard Wins
19
Tied / N/A
12
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Rocky Mountains
7,601
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

4%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1553
SAT Average
N/A
35
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1510-1580
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,676
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$61,676
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$19,066
Average Net Price
$12,548
$8,697
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$2,991
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$2,091
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$53,337
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
16%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
4%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
48%
98%
Retention Rate
65%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$25,048
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
26%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

50%
Female
69%
31%
White
50%
12%
Hispanic
16%
9%
Black
14%
22%
Asian
4%
0.81
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$99,572
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$101,095
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$101,817
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$14,000
Median Debt
$11,116
0.14x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
88%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

175.92%
Mobility Rate
N/A
5774.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
304.7%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$174,000
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.69
Economic Connectedness
N/A
0.02
Friending Bias
N/A
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

Research (Times HE)

#1
World Rank
N/A
99.7
Teaching Score
N/A
98.7
Research Score
N/A
98.8
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · Private nonprofit

4% accept 97% grad $101,817 earnings $19,066 net

With an acceptance rate of just 4%, Harvard University is a place where the most driven and ambitious students find their footing. It’s especially suitable for those drawn to rigorous academic programs like Social Sciences, Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physical Sciences. The environment here encourages intellectual curiosity and a commitment to excellence, attracting a diverse group of scholars who are ready to engage deeply with their studies.

After graduation, the financial outlook is promising, with alumni earning an average of $101,817 within ten years. This level of earning power is a significant motivator for students considering their future. While the cost of education is an important factor, many graduates see a strong return on their investment, which makes the financial commitment worthwhile for those who can navigate the admissions process.

When we look at the practical aspects, the net price after aid stands at $19,066, and the median debt is relatively manageable at $14,000. This financial structure allows students to focus on their education without being overwhelmed by debt. Those who thrive at Harvard often share a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the world, making the most of the resources and opportunities available to them.

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit

48% grad $60,615 earnings $12,548 net

With an enrollment of 155,088 students, Western Governors University in Salt Lake City stands out as a solid choice for those seeking flexibility in their education. It caters well to non-traditional students, particularly in fields like Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Education, and Engineering. The online format allows for self-paced learning, which is ideal for working adults or those balancing multiple responsibilities.

Looking at life after graduation, students can expect a median earning of $60,615 ten years post-degree. This figure suggests that graduates are finding solid job opportunities. While the graduation rate is 48%, the income potential indicates that those who complete their programs are likely to see a good return on their investment, despite the challenges that might come with juggling work and studies.

On the practical side, the net price after aid comes in at $12,548, with a median debt of $11,116. This suggests that many students can manage their educational expenses without overwhelming debt. Those who thrive here are typically self-motivated individuals who appreciate the autonomy of an online learning environment, making it a good fit for those ready to take charge of their education and career paths.

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