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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus 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.

5
Pennsylvania Wins
13
Tied / N/A
28
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Southeast
42,284
Enrollment
20,752
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

61%
Acceptance Rate
15%
1337
SAT Average
1439
N/A
ACT Midpoint
25
1240-1420
SAT Range
1390-1530

Cost & Financial Aid

$20,644
In-State Tuition
$8,994
$41,790
Out-of-State Tuition
$41,203
$32,875
Average Net Price
$11,655
$19,845
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,004
$20,049
Net Price ($30-48K)
$3,918
$25,667
Net Price ($48-75K)
$8,538
$37,831
Net Price ($110K+)
$24,396
14%
Pell Grant Rate
20%
40%
Federal Loan Rate
13%

Academics

86%
Graduation Rate
92%
93%
Retention Rate
97%
86%
Full-Time Faculty
78%
$13,120
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$15,046
29%
First-Gen Students
20%

Student Body

50%
Female
62%
63%
White
53%
9%
Hispanic
10%
5%
Black
7%
8%
Asian
16%
0.58
Diversity Index
0.67

Outcomes

$55,620
Earnings (6yr)
$57,057
$60,370
Earnings (8yr)
$65,584
$63,435
Earnings (10yr)
$72,200
$25,000
Median Debt
$14,000
0.39x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
73%
Earning Above HS
78%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
115.19%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
3330.1%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
345.9%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$129,500

Social Capital

1.71
Economic Connectedness
1.68
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
6.0%
Volunteering Rate
8.9%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#30
N/A
Teaching Score
70.9
N/A
Research Score
75.1
N/A
Citations Score
85

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.

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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