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Santa Clara University vs Western Governors University

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

11
Santa Wins
16
Tied / N/A
15
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Far West
Region
Rocky Mountains
6,552
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

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

Cost & Financial Aid

$61,293
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$61,293
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$50,062
Average Net Price
$12,548
$22,985
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$19,154
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$26,531
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$60,678
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
11%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
37%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

88%
Graduation Rate
48%
94%
Retention Rate
65%
72%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$14,682
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
17%
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

54%
Female
69%
37%
White
50%
20%
Hispanic
16%
3%
Black
14%
21%
Asian
4%
0.77
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$91,198
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$99,543
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$109,183
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$19,162
Median Debt
$11,116
0.18x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
83%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

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

Social Capital

1.89
Economic Connectedness
N/A
-0.00
Friending Bias
N/A
6.6%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

The Overviews

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.

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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