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Michigan State University vs Purdue University-Main Campus

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

6
Michigan Wins
12
Tied / N/A
28
Purdue Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Great Lakes
40,922
Enrollment
44,503
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
50%
1269
SAT Average
1364
26
ACT Midpoint
30
1180-1360
SAT Range
1200-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$9,992
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$28,794
$19,680
Average Net Price
$14,600
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$5,098
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$6,241
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$9,438
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$22,742
20%
Pell Grant Rate
13%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
22%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
83%
90%
Retention Rate
93%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
96%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,473
21%
First-Gen Students
19%

Student Body

55%
Female
47%
67%
White
54%
7%
Hispanic
8%
7%
Black
3%
8%
Asian
15%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.67

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$60,838
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$66,951
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$72,424
$23,250
Median Debt
$19,500
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.27x
76%
Earning Above HS
80%

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
1.67
0.09
Friending Bias
0.00
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
6.9%

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.

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN · Public

50% accept 83% grad $72,424 earnings $14,600 net

With an enrollment of over 44,500 students, Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a solid choice for those who thrive in a large, dynamic environment. It’s particularly appealing for students interested in engineering, business, computer science, biology, and social sciences. The 50% acceptance rate suggests a competitive atmosphere, and the 83% graduation rate indicates that many students are successfully completing their degrees.

After graduation, students can expect a median earning of $72,424 after ten years. That’s a significant number, especially for graduates entering fields like engineering and technology. While the cost of attendance is reasonable, the long-term financial outlook is promising, making it clear that a degree from Purdue can lead to solid career opportunities.

When it comes to affordability, the net price after aid averages around $14,600, which is manageable for many families. With a median debt of $19,500, students leave with a debt load that is relatively low compared to potential earnings. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated, ambitious, and ready to take advantage of the university's strong programs and supportive resources.

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