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Providence College vs Western Governors University

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

7
Providence Wins
15
Tied / N/A
20
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
New England
Region
Rocky Mountains
4,229
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

51%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1346
SAT Average
N/A
29
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1250-1390
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$63,550
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$63,550
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$48,523
Average Net Price
$12,548
$28,152
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$21,835
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$25,296
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$56,699
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
13%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
57%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

87%
Graduation Rate
48%
94%
Retention Rate
65%
72%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$12,190
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
15%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

58%
Female
69%
79%
White
50%
9%
Hispanic
16%
2%
Black
14%
1%
Asian
4%
0.36
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$69,326
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$73,021
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$87,054
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$27,000
Median Debt
$11,116
0.31x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
84%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

93.24%
Mobility Rate
N/A
4555.5%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
204.7%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$139,300
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
N/A
0.02
Friending Bias
N/A
4.8%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

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.

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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