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Michigan State University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

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

18
Michigan Wins
15
Tied / N/A
13
Pennsylvania Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Mid-Atlantic
40,922
Enrollment
42,284
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
61%
1269
SAT Average
1337
26
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1180-1360
SAT Range
1240-1420

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$20,644
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,790
$19,680
Average Net Price
$32,875
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$19,845
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$20,049
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$25,667
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$37,831
20%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
40%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
86%
90%
Retention Rate
93%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
86%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$13,120
21%
First-Gen Students
29%

Student Body

55%
Female
50%
67%
White
63%
7%
Hispanic
9%
7%
Black
5%
8%
Asian
8%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.58

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$55,620
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$60,370
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$63,435
$23,250
Median Debt
$25,000
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.39x
76%
Earning Above HS
73%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

138.78%
Mobility Rate
N/A
3392.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
409.1%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$120,400
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.48
Economic Connectedness
1.71
0.09
Friending Bias
0.00
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
6.0%

Research (Times HE)

#122
World Rank
N/A
50.4
Teaching Score
N/A
52.7
Research Score
N/A
63.7
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public

85% accept 81% grad $67,253 earnings $19,680 net

With an enrollment of over 40,000 students, Michigan State University is a vibrant choice for those looking to dive into fields like Business, Biology, Engineering, and Social Sciences. The acceptance rate of 85% means it's accessible, welcoming a diverse range of students who are eager to grow academically and socially. Here, you’ll find a mix of rigorous academic programs and a lively campus life that suits both serious scholars and those looking to make connections.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a median income of $67,253 just ten years post-degree. This indicates that graduates are moving into steady careers that often lead to upward mobility, although specific statistics on mobility are not available. The cost of education is manageable, especially considering the average net price of $19,680 after aid, which makes it an appealing option for many.

When it comes to affordability, the median debt sits at $23,250, which is relatively reasonable given the earning potential. Students who thrive here often take advantage of the large network and resources available, whether through campus organizations or internship opportunities. Overall, Michigan State University attracts those who are ready to engage in a dynamic environment and are focused on building a future that balances education with real-world applicability.

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PA · Public

61% accept 86% grad $63,435 earnings $32,875 net

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

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