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Lehigh University vs Northeastern University

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

15
Lehigh Wins
6
Tied / N/A
25
Northeastern Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
New England
5,898
Enrollment
17,326
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

26%
Acceptance Rate
5%
1440
SAT Average
1497
32
ACT Midpoint
34
1370-1500
SAT Range
1440-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$64,980
In-State Tuition
$66,162
$64,980
Out-of-State Tuition
$66,162
$36,931
Average Net Price
$30,915
$16,917
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,264
$17,140
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,436
$18,722
Net Price ($48-75K)
$5,301
$48,751
Net Price ($110K+)
$47,696
18%
Pell Grant Rate
12%
37%
Federal Loan Rate
27%

Academics

89%
Graduation Rate
90%
94%
Retention Rate
97%
85%
Full-Time Faculty
70%
$15,219
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$16,218
17%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

45%
Female
54%
60%
White
40%
11%
Hispanic
10%
5%
Black
5%
11%
Asian
22%
0.61
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$88,810
Earnings (6yr)
$78,413
$97,731
Earnings (8yr)
$82,813
$105,584
Earnings (10yr)
$92,538
$21,960
Median Debt
$24,250
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.26x
90%
Earning Above HS
85%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

187.40%
Mobility Rate
243.76%
5702.7%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4736.7%
328.6%
From Bottom 20%
514.6%
$138,300
Parent Median Income
$108,300

Social Capital

1.84
Economic Connectedness
1.79
0.01
Friending Bias
0.03
4.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.4%

Research (Times HE)

#301-350
World Rank
#201-225
20.2
Teaching Score
30.4
18.1
Research Score
18.9
44.9
Citations Score
70

The Overviews

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · Private nonprofit

26% accept 89% grad $105,584 earnings $36,931 net

Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, is a great fit for students who are looking for a balance of academic rigor and a vibrant campus life. With an acceptance rate of 26%, it attracts motivated individuals who are interested in fields like Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Computer Science. The strong emphasis on these programs means students can expect a well-rounded education that prepares them for today’s job market.

After graduation, Lehigh alumni see impressive earnings, with a median salary of $105,584 just ten years post-degree. This figure highlights the university's strong return on investment for graduates, especially in high-demand fields. While the affordability of higher education is a concern for many, the net price here is $36,931 after financial aid, making it a manageable option for those willing to invest in their future.

On the financial side, graduates typically carry a median debt of $21,960, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This manageable debt load means that many students can thrive here, particularly those who are proactive about their education and take advantage of the resources available. Lehigh is especially welcoming to students who are ready to engage deeply with both their studies and the community.

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

5% accept 90% grad $92,538 earnings $30,915 net

Northeastern University in Boston is an excellent fit for students who are driven and ready to engage in a highly competitive academic environment. With an acceptance rate of just 5%, it attracts those who excel in their studies and seek a dynamic campus experience. Students here often dive into popular programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science & IT, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. This variety allows for a rich educational experience and a chance to connect with peers across different fields.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates can expect to earn an average of $92,538 within ten years of completing their degree. This figure highlights the potential for upward mobility, especially considering the strong graduation rate of 90%. While affordability can be a concern for many students, the financial landscape here is manageable, with a net price of $30,915 after aid. This balance between cost and earning potential is a significant advantage for graduates.

When it comes to practical considerations, the typical debt load for students at Northeastern is around $24,250. This is relatively low compared to their earning potential, making it easier for graduates to pay off loans while enjoying their careers. The environment here tends to suit those who are ambitious and ready to take advantage of the university's extensive resources and networking opportunities. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and values real-world experience alongside academic rigor, Northeastern could be a great choice for you.

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