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Providence College vs Swarthmore College

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

9
Providence Wins
5
Tied / N/A
28
Swarthmore Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Mid-Atlantic
4,229
Enrollment
1,613
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

51%
Acceptance Rate
7%
1346
SAT Average
1534
29
ACT Midpoint
34
1250-1390
SAT Range
1490-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$63,550
In-State Tuition
$65,494
$63,550
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,494
$48,523
Average Net Price
$23,149
$28,152
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$7,690
$21,835
Net Price ($30-48K)
$4,951
$25,296
Net Price ($48-75K)
$11,444
$56,699
Net Price ($110K+)
$47,544
13%
Pell Grant Rate
19%
57%
Federal Loan Rate
11%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
93%
94%
Retention Rate
94%
72%
Full-Time Faculty
94%
$12,190
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,961
15%
First-Gen Students
27%

Student Body

58%
Female
55%
79%
White
30%
9%
Hispanic
16%
2%
Black
9%
1%
Asian
17%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.82

Outcomes

$69,326
Earnings (6yr)
$56,211
$73,021
Earnings (8yr)
$72,890
$87,054
Earnings (10yr)
$80,257
$27,000
Median Debt
$17,500
0.31x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.22x
84%
Earning Above HS
62%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

93.24%
Mobility Rate
228.61%
4555.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4912.8%
204.7%
From Bottom 20%
465.3%
$139,300
Parent Median Income
$135,900

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.02
Friending Bias
-0.01
4.8%
Volunteering Rate
14.1%

The Overviews

Providence College

Providence, RI · Private nonprofit

51% accept 87% grad $87,054 earnings $48,523 net

With an enrollment of about 4,200 students, Providence College is a great fit for those looking for a close-knit community while still enjoying the resources of a larger institution. The college’s emphasis on programs like Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, and Biology & Biomedical sets a clear academic direction for students. The 51% acceptance rate indicates that while it's selective, there are plenty of opportunities for students who are passionate about their fields.

Looking ahead, the average earnings for graduates after ten years is around $87,054. That’s a solid number that reflects the value of a degree from this institution. Graduates are likely to see upward mobility in their careers, which is a significant consideration when choosing a school. The fact that 87% of students graduate suggests a supportive environment that helps students stay on track and achieve their goals.

Financially, the net price after aid stands at $48,523, and the median debt for graduates is $27,000. This debt load is manageable compared to the earning potential, making it a reasonable investment in education. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are engaged in their studies and take advantage of the community support available. Overall, Providence College presents a compelling option for students focused on both academic and career success.

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · Private nonprofit

7% accept 93% grad $80,257 earnings $23,149 net

With an acceptance rate of just 7%, Swarthmore College is a great fit for students who are academically driven and ready to be challenged. The school attracts those who are passionate about their studies, especially in areas like Social Sciences, Computer Science and IT, Biology, and the Visual and Performing Arts. The strong emphasis on a well-rounded education means students here are not just focusing on their major but are encouraged to explore a variety of disciplines, which can lead to a richer college experience.

Looking ahead, graduates from Swarthmore can expect substantial earnings, with a median income of $80,257 ten years after they leave. This is a significant figure that reflects both the quality of education and the strong alumni network that can support career growth. The affordability aspect is also noteworthy; while college can be expensive, the net price after aid is about $23,149, which makes it more accessible for many families. This balance of cost and outcome is crucial for students considering their long-term financial futures.

In terms of financial health, students graduate with a median debt of $17,500, which is relatively manageable compared to other institutions. Those who thrive at Swarthmore tend to be self-motivated and engaged, finding ways to not only excel academically but also to make the most of the college experience through extracurricular activities and community involvement. This school cultivates a culture where hard work and curiosity can lead to both personal and professional success.

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