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Princeton University vs Western Governors University

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

17
Princeton Wins
19
Tied / N/A
10
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Rocky Mountains
5,709
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

5%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1553
SAT Average
N/A
34
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1510-1580
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$62,688
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$62,688
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$6,128
Average Net Price
$12,548
$41
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$352
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$1,217
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$36,094
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
19%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
2%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

97%
Graduation Rate
48%
98%
Retention Rate
65%
87%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$25,354
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
28%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

51%
Female
69%
34%
White
50%
10%
Hispanic
16%
9%
Black
14%
23%
Asian
4%
0.79
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$87,815
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$112,152
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$110,066
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$10,320
Median Debt
$11,116
0.09x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
83%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

134.58%
Mobility Rate
N/A
6586.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
204.3%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$218,100
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.88
Economic Connectedness
N/A
-0.00
Friending Bias
N/A
10.8%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

Research (Times HE)

#5
World Rank
N/A
90.9
Teaching Score
N/A
95.4
Research Score
N/A
99.9
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · Private nonprofit

5% accept 97% grad $110,066 earnings $6,128 net

With an acceptance rate of just 5%, Princeton University is not for everyone, but for those who make the cut, it’s a place where ambition meets opportunity. The school attracts bright minds, particularly in fields like Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, and Biology. Students here are often deeply engaged in their studies, working alongside faculty who are leaders in their fields. This kind of environment fosters not just learning but also a strong sense of community among peers.

After graduation, the benefits of attending Princeton are clear. Alumni can expect an impressive average earning of $110,066 within a decade of finishing their degrees. This speaks volumes about the value of a Princeton education, especially when considering the high graduation rate of 97%. The school’s focus on producing skilled graduates who excel in their careers contributes significantly to their long-term success.

When it comes to finances, the net price after aid is manageable at $6,128, and the median debt stands at $10,320. This means many graduates leave with a realistic financial outlook, allowing them to focus on their careers rather than being weighed down by overwhelming debt. Students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a variety of perspectives that enhance classroom discussions and campus life.

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit

48% grad $60,615 earnings $12,548 net

With an enrollment of 155,088 students, Western Governors University in Salt Lake City stands out as a solid choice for those seeking flexibility in their education. It caters well to non-traditional students, particularly in fields like Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Education, and Engineering. The online format allows for self-paced learning, which is ideal for working adults or those balancing multiple responsibilities.

Looking at life after graduation, students can expect a median earning of $60,615 ten years post-degree. This figure suggests that graduates are finding solid job opportunities. While the graduation rate is 48%, the income potential indicates that those who complete their programs are likely to see a good return on their investment, despite the challenges that might come with juggling work and studies.

On the practical side, the net price after aid comes in at $12,548, with a median debt of $11,116. This suggests that many students can manage their educational expenses without overwhelming debt. Those who thrive here are typically self-motivated individuals who appreciate the autonomy of an online learning environment, making it a good fit for those ready to take charge of their education and career paths.

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