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Michigan State University vs Rutgers University-New Brunswick

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

11
Michigan Wins
15
Tied / N/A
20
Rutgers Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Mid-Atlantic
40,922
Enrollment
37,751
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
58%
1269
SAT Average
1410
26
ACT Midpoint
30
1180-1360
SAT Range
1310-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$17,929
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$37,441
$19,680
Average Net Price
$24,406
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$16,343
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$16,210
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$18,282
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,016
20%
Pell Grant Rate
28%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
35%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
84%
90%
Retention Rate
93%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
53%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,593
21%
First-Gen Students
35%

Student Body

55%
Female
55%
67%
White
30%
7%
Hispanic
16%
7%
Black
7%
8%
Asian
34%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.76

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$61,263
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$67,665
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$74,479
$23,250
Median Debt
$21,500
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.29x
76%
Earning Above HS
76%

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
1.76
0.09
Friending Bias
0.02
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
7.4%

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.

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ · Public

58% accept 84% grad $74,479 earnings $24,406 net

With an enrollment of over 37,000 students, Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a great fit for those who thrive in a vibrant, diverse environment. The school stands out for its strong programs in Business and Marketing, Computer Science, Engineering, Health Professions, and Biology. If you're looking to dive into a field with solid job prospects and a supportive academic community, this could be your place.

When we look at what happens after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates earn an average of $74,479 within a decade of finishing their degrees. That’s a solid return on investment, especially when you consider the affordability of Rutgers. The net price after financial aid is $24,406, which is reasonable given the earning potential. This environment supports students not just in their studies, but in launching successful careers.

Now, let’s talk about the practical side of things. With a median debt of $21,500, students often leave with manageable loans, especially if they utilize financial aid options. The blend of affordability and strong career outcomes suggests that students who put in the effort here tend to thrive, especially those who are driven and engaged. If you're ready to take on challenges and make the most of your education, Rutgers can be a great stepping stone to your future.

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