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Lafayette College vs Western Governors University

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

12
Lafayette Wins
16
Tied / N/A
14
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Suburban
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Rocky Mountains
2,757
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

31%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1424
SAT Average
N/A
32
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1350-1500
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$65,398
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$65,398
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$34,433
Average Net Price
$12,548
$12,716
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$7,445
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$10,881
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$52,608
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
12%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
20%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
48%
90%
Retention Rate
65%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$12,663
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
15%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

58%
Female
69%
67%
White
50%
10%
Hispanic
16%
6%
Black
14%
3%
Asian
4%
0.54
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$80,614
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$84,452
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$91,410
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$16,000
Median Debt
$11,116
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
85%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

162.69%
Mobility Rate
N/A
5854.6%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
277.9%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$156,700
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
N/A
0.00
Friending Bias
N/A
6.5%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

The Overviews

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · Private nonprofit

31% accept 88% grad $91,410 earnings $34,433 net

With an acceptance rate of 31%, Lafayette College in Easton, PA, is an appealing choice for students who are ready to engage deeply with their education in a supportive community. It’s a great fit for those interested in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Biology and Biomedical Studies, Psychology, and Visual and Performing Arts. The college’s emphasis on collaborative learning and hands-on experiences really stands out, making it a place where students can explore their passions while also preparing for their careers.

After graduation, Lafayette alumni can expect to earn an impressive average of $91,410 within ten years of completing their degrees. This figure highlights the strong return on investment that a Lafayette education can offer. With a graduation rate of 88%, it’s clear that students are not just enrolling here; they’re succeeding. This high success rate indicates that the college is effectively supporting students in their academic journeys, and that many are moving on to thriving careers.

In terms of affordability, the net price after aid is around $34,433, with a median debt load of $16,000 for graduates. This manageable debt level suggests that students can graduate with less financial burden, allowing them to focus on their careers and life after college. Lafayette tends to attract motivated individuals who are eager to make the most of their college experience, contributing to a vibrant campus culture where students thrive both academically and socially.

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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