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Northeastern University vs Boston College

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

20
Northeastern Wins
8
Tied / N/A
18
Boston Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
New England
17,326
Enrollment
10,085
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
16%
1497
SAT Average
1507
34
ACT Midpoint
34
1440-1540
SAT Range
1440-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$66,162
In-State Tuition
$70,702
$66,162
Out-of-State Tuition
$70,702
$30,915
Average Net Price
$41,704
$2,264
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$4,284
$2,436
Net Price ($30-48K)
$7,304
$5,301
Net Price ($48-75K)
$13,112
$47,696
Net Price ($110K+)
$60,308
12%
Pell Grant Rate
13%
27%
Federal Loan Rate
30%

Academics

90%
Graduation Rate
91%
97%
Retention Rate
96%
70%
Full-Time Faculty
61%
$16,218
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$18,131
19%
First-Gen Students
13%

Student Body

54%
Female
52%
40%
White
57%
10%
Hispanic
13%
5%
Black
5%
22%
Asian
11%
0.76
Diversity Index
0.64

Outcomes

$78,413
Earnings (6yr)
$85,717
$82,813
Earnings (8yr)
$89,620
$92,538
Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$24,250
Median Debt
$19,000
0.26x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
85%
Earning Above HS
88%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

243.76%
Mobility Rate
160.29%
4736.7%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5621.1%
514.6%
From Bottom 20%
285.2%
$108,300
Parent Median Income
$168,400

Social Capital

1.79
Economic Connectedness
1.89
0.03
Friending Bias
-0.00
8.4%
Volunteering Rate
6.7%

Research (Times HE)

#201-225
World Rank
#161
30.4
Teaching Score
40.1
18.9
Research Score
33.6
70
Citations Score
78

The Overviews

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit

5% accept 90% grad $92,538 earnings $30,915 net

Northeastern University in Boston is an excellent fit for students who are driven and ready to engage in a highly competitive academic environment. With an acceptance rate of just 5%, it attracts those who excel in their studies and seek a dynamic campus experience. Students here often dive into popular programs like Business & Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science & IT, Biology & Biomedical, and Social Sciences. This variety allows for a rich educational experience and a chance to connect with peers across different fields.

Looking at life after graduation, the numbers tell a promising story. Graduates can expect to earn an average of $92,538 within ten years of completing their degree. This figure highlights the potential for upward mobility, especially considering the strong graduation rate of 90%. While affordability can be a concern for many students, the financial landscape here is manageable, with a net price of $30,915 after aid. This balance between cost and earning potential is a significant advantage for graduates.

When it comes to practical considerations, the typical debt load for students at Northeastern is around $24,250. This is relatively low compared to their earning potential, making it easier for graduates to pay off loans while enjoying their careers. The environment here tends to suit those who are ambitious and ready to take advantage of the university's extensive resources and networking opportunities. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting and values real-world experience alongside academic rigor, Northeastern could be a great choice for you.

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · Private nonprofit

16% accept 91% grad $103,937 earnings $41,704 net

With an acceptance rate of just 16%, Boston College attracts students who are academically driven and ready to engage deeply with their studies. The school excels in areas like Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, and Psychology, among others. If you’re looking for a community that values both rigorous academics and a strong sense of tradition, this is a place where you can thrive.

Once you graduate, you can expect to make, on average, $103,937 after ten years in the workforce. That’s a solid figure that speaks to the value of a degree from Boston College. Students who study here often find themselves well-prepared for the job market, which is crucial as we consider our financial futures. The blend of a strong curriculum and a supportive network can lead to successful career paths.

Looking at the financial aspects, the net price after aid is around $41,704, and students typically graduate with a median debt of $19,000. This debt load is manageable for many, especially considering the earning potential after graduation. Boston College tends to attract students who are ready to invest in their education and take full advantage of the opportunities available, paving the way for both personal and professional growth.

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