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Michigan State University vs University of Massachusetts-Amherst

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

11
Michigan Wins
13
Tied / N/A
22
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
New England
40,922
Enrollment
23,671
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
60%
1269
SAT Average
1423
26
ACT Midpoint
31
1180-1360
SAT Range
1310-1500

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$17,772
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$40,449
$19,680
Average Net Price
$22,383
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$10,164
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$10,456
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,932
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$30,793
20%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
47%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
83%
90%
Retention Rate
92%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
81%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,663
21%
First-Gen Students
22%

Student Body

55%
Female
52%
67%
White
57%
7%
Hispanic
9%
7%
Black
5%
8%
Asian
14%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.64

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$60,347
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$66,904
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$71,631
$23,250
Median Debt
$22,763
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.32x
76%
Earning Above HS
75%

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
1.80
0.09
Friending Bias
0.01
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
9.0%

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.

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · Public

60% accept 83% grad $71,631 earnings $22,383 net

With an enrollment of 23,671 students, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a great fit for those looking for a diverse and vibrant campus life. It stands out for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Engineering. Students here are often engaged in a wide range of studies, reflecting both academic rigor and practical application. The acceptance rate of 60% means that while it’s accessible, there’s still a competitive edge that can stimulate personal growth.

Graduates from UMass-Amherst can expect solid outcomes, with a median earning of $71,631 ten years after graduation. This figure speaks volumes about the potential return on investment. It’s encouraging to know that students can find rewarding careers, especially considering the affordability of education here. The net price after aid is $22,383, which positions the school as a reasonable choice for many families.

When it comes to finances, the median debt stands at $22,763, which is manageable given the earning potential. UMass-Amherst tends to attract students who are motivated and ready to embrace the opportunities that come with a public university experience. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, there’s a commitment to supporting diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Overall, this school nurtures those who are eager to thrive both academically and professionally after graduation.

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