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Michigan State University vs Union College

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

17
Michigan Wins
13
Tied / N/A
16
Union Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Mid-Atlantic
40,922
Enrollment
2,046
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
44%
1269
SAT Average
1395
26
ACT Midpoint
30
1180-1360
SAT Range
1310-1480

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$69,039
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$69,039
$19,680
Average Net Price
$34,561
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$11,776
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$16,415
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$23,941
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$45,017
20%
Pell Grant Rate
14%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
44%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
83%
90%
Retention Rate
90%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
90%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$12,031
21%
First-Gen Students
13%

Student Body

55%
Female
50%
67%
White
63%
7%
Hispanic
11%
7%
Black
4%
8%
Asian
7%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.57

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$63,219
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$81,488
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$88,604
$23,250
Median Debt
$25,337
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.29x
76%
Earning Above HS
82%

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
1.83
0.09
Friending Bias
-0.00
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

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.

Union College

Schenectady, NY · Private nonprofit

44% accept 83% grad $88,604 earnings $34,561 net

Union College is a solid choice for students interested in a diverse range of studies, particularly in social sciences, engineering, biology, and psychology. With an enrollment of about 2,046 students and an acceptance rate of 44%, it strikes a balance between being accessible and maintaining a close-knit community. The graduation rate of 83% reflects a supportive environment where students tend to thrive and complete their degrees.

When it comes to what happens after graduation, students from Union College can expect a median earning of $88,604 within ten years of finishing their degree. This level of earning power suggests that graduates are well-prepared for the job market, with many finding roles that allow them to grow both personally and professionally. The affordability factor also plays a role in this, as financial burdens are important to consider when thinking about long-term success.

The financial bottom line shows a net price of $34,561 after aid, which is manageable compared to the potential earnings. With a median debt of $25,337, students can graduate with a reasonable financial outlook, especially relative to their earning potential. Those who tend to thrive at Union are likely to be motivated, engaged, and ready to take on the academic rigor of the programs offered, all while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere in Schenectady.

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