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Michigan State University vs Pepperdine University

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

17
Michigan Wins
9
Tied / N/A
20
Pepperdine Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Great Lakes
Region
Far West
40,922
Enrollment
3,553
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
63%
1269
SAT Average
1384
26
ACT Midpoint
28
1180-1360
SAT Range
1290-1450

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$69,918
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$69,918
$19,680
Average Net Price
$58,098
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$50,560
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$42,674
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$51,063
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$65,081
20%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
37%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
84%
90%
Retention Rate
88%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
47%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,314
21%
First-Gen Students
18%

Student Body

55%
Female
59%
67%
White
44%
7%
Hispanic
19%
7%
Black
4%
8%
Asian
15%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.74

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$64,934
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$72,056
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$82,939
$23,250
Median Debt
$23,510
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.28x
76%
Earning Above HS
78%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

138.78%
Mobility Rate
185.98%
3392.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4309.9%
409.1%
From Bottom 20%
431.5%
$120,400
Parent Median Income
$124,100

Social Capital

1.48
Economic Connectedness
1.86
0.09
Friending Bias
-0.01
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
5.8%

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.

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · Private nonprofit

63% accept 84% grad $82,939 earnings $58,098 net

Students at Pepperdine University can expect to earn an average of $82,939 a decade after graduation. This strong earning potential reflects the university's emphasis on high-demand fields such as Business, Communications, and Psychology. With a graduation rate of 84%, many students successfully complete their degrees and enter the workforce with solid earning prospects.

The Opportunity Insights data for Pepperdine is limited, but the university's environment supports upward mobility. The 20% Pell Grant rate indicates that a portion of students comes from low-income backgrounds. While specific mobility rates are not available, graduates typically enter fields that contribute positively to economic advancement.

Financial considerations are crucial for prospective students. The net price of attending Pepperdine stands at $58,098, while the median debt for graduates is $23,510. Students who thrive here tend to be driven, particularly in fields like Business and the Arts, where creativity and leadership skills are essential.

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