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Michigan State University vs University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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

9
Michigan Wins
7
Tied / N/A
30
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Great Lakes
Region
Southeast
40,922
Enrollment
20,752
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

85%
Acceptance Rate
15%
1269
SAT Average
1439
26
ACT Midpoint
25
1180-1360
SAT Range
1390-1530

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,458
In-State Tuition
$8,994
$43,842
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,203
$19,680
Average Net Price
$11,655
$7,068
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,004
$10,830
Net Price ($30-48K)
$3,918
$16,521
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,538
$28,546
Net Price ($110K+)
$24,396
20%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
34%
Federal Loan Rate
13%

Academics

81%
Graduation Rate
92%
90%
Retention Rate
97%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
78%
$13,468
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,046
21%
First-Gen Students
20%

Student Body

55%
Female
62%
67%
White
53%
7%
Hispanic
10%
7%
Black
7%
8%
Asian
16%
0.53
Diversity Index
0.67

Outcomes

$55,084
Earnings (6yr)
$57,057
$62,777
Earnings (8yr)
$65,584
$67,253
Earnings (10yr)
$72,200
$23,250
Median Debt
$14,000
0.35x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
76%
Earning Above HS
78%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

138.78%
Mobility Rate
115.19%
3392.0%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3330.1%
409.1%
From Bottom 20%
345.9%
$120,400
Parent Median Income
$129,500

Social Capital

1.48
Economic Connectedness
1.68
0.09
Friending Bias
-0.01
7.7%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

#122
World Rank
#30
50.4
Teaching Score
70.9
52.7
Research Score
75.1
63.7
Citations Score
85

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 North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · Public

15% accept 92% grad $72,200 earnings $11,655 net

With an acceptance rate of just 15%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill attracts students who are ready to dive into a diverse range of studies, including Biology, Business, and Communications. This school is a great fit for those who thrive in a competitive environment and are looking for strong academic support. The impressive graduation rate of 92% indicates a solid commitment to student success, meaning you'll likely find yourself in a community that values achievement and collaboration.

After graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $72,200 within a decade, which is a pretty solid starting point for many. This level of earning power suggests that the programs offered here are well-aligned with job market needs. Additionally, the cost of attendance is manageable, with a net price of $11,655 after aid, making it a compelling choice for those concerned about financial barriers.

When it comes to debt, the median load of $14,000 is relatively low compared to what many graduates face elsewhere. This means that students who manage their finances well can leave college with a degree of financial freedom. Generally, those who thrive here are driven and engaged, ready to take advantage of the rich academic and social resources that UNC Chapel Hill has to offer.

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