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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus vs Santa Clara University

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

12
Pennsylvania Wins
10
Tied / N/A
20
Santa Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Far West
42,284
Enrollment
6,552
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

61%
Acceptance Rate
48%
1337
SAT Average
1426
N/A
ACT Midpoint
32
1240-1420
SAT Range
1350-1490

Cost & Financial Aid

$20,644
In-State Tuition
$61,293
$41,790
Out-of-State Tuition
$61,293
$32,875
Average Net Price
$50,062
$19,845
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$22,985
$20,049
Net Price ($30-48K)
$19,154
$25,667
Net Price ($48-75K)
$26,531
$37,831
Net Price ($110K+)
$60,678
14%
Pell Grant Rate
11%
40%
Federal Loan Rate
37%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
88%
93%
Retention Rate
94%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
72%
$13,120
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,682
29%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

50%
Female
54%
63%
White
37%
9%
Hispanic
20%
5%
Black
3%
8%
Asian
21%
0.58
Diversity Index
0.77

Outcomes

$55,620
Earnings (6yr)
$91,198
$60,370
Earnings (8yr)
$99,543
$63,435
Earnings (10yr)
$109,183
$25,000
Median Debt
$19,162
0.39x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
73%
Earning Above HS
83%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
224.68%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
6203.6%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
362.2%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$149,900

Social Capital

1.71
Economic Connectedness
1.89
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.00
6.0%
Volunteering Rate
6.6%

The Overviews

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

University Park, PA · Public

61% accept 86% grad $63,435 earnings $32,875 net

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · Private nonprofit

48% accept 88% grad $109,183 earnings $50,062 net

Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 88%, indicating strong student success and support. This high rate suggests that students are not only enrolling but also completing their degrees in a timely manner, which is crucial for their future careers.

The earnings data for graduates is impressive. Ten years after graduation, alumni earn a median salary of $109,183. This figure highlights the potential return on investment for students considering their financial futures. However, with a net price of $50,062 and median debt at $19,162, students should weigh the cost of attendance against their anticipated earnings.

Students who thrive at Santa Clara typically pursue majors in Business & Marketing, Engineering, Social Sciences, Communications, or Psychology. The campus environment supports those who are motivated and engaged in their studies. With a moderate acceptance rate of 48%, the university attracts a diverse group of students ready to take advantage of the academic opportunities available.

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