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Michigan State University vs Tufts University

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

15
Michigan Wins
5
Tied / N/A
26
Tufts Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Great Lakes
Region
New England
40,922
Enrollment
7,061
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
11%
1269
SAT Average
1513
26
ACT Midpoint
34
1180-1360
SAT Range
1470-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$70,704
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$70,704
$19,680
Average Net Price
$39,998
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$11,284
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$9,811
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$14,923
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$58,570
20%
Pell Grant Rate
12%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
19%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
93%
90%
Retention Rate
96%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
64%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,205
21%
First-Gen Students
15%

Student Body

55%
Female
46%
67%
White
41%
7%
Hispanic
10%
7%
Black
6%
8%
Asian
17%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.77

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$68,337
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$70,761
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$83,214
$23,250
Median Debt
$16,250
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
76%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

138.78%
Mobility Rate
212.66%
3392.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6216.7%
409.1%
From Bottom 20%
342.1%
$120,400
Parent Median Income
$187,900

Social Capital

1.48
Economic Connectedness
1.89
0.09
Friending Bias
-0.00
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
12.3%

Research (Times HE)

#122
World Rank
#53
50.4
Teaching Score
64.1
52.7
Research Score
52.3
63.7
Citations Score
83.9

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.

Tufts University

Medford, MA · Private nonprofit

11% accept 93% grad $83,214 earnings $39,998 net

With an acceptance rate of just 11%, Tufts University attracts students who are ready to engage in a vibrant academic community. This school is ideal for those passionate about social sciences, engineering, biology and biomedical fields, computer science and IT, or the visual and performing arts. What stands out is the commitment to a well-rounded education that encourages exploration and interdisciplinary study, making it a great fit for curious minds eager to make an impact.

After graduation, students can expect a solid earning potential, with a 10-year median salary of $83,214. This figure highlights the strong return on investment for graduates. With a graduation rate of 93%, it's clear that students not only thrive academically but also transition successfully into their careers. While the Pell Grant rate is at 12%, indicating that a smaller percentage of students come from low-income backgrounds, those who do tend to find pathways to upward mobility in their professional lives.

Looking at the practical side, the net price of attending Tufts is around $39,998 after aid, which is significant but manageable for many. Graduates carry a median debt of $16,250, a figure that suggests a thoughtful balance between investment in education and financial responsibility. Students who tend to thrive here are those who are driven, engaged, and ready to take advantage of the diverse opportunities available on campus and beyond.

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