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Syracuse University vs University of Southern California

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

8
Syracuse Wins
6
Tied / N/A
32
University Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Mid-Atlantic
Region
Far West
15,477
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

46%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1375
SAT Average
1495
30
ACT Midpoint
34
1270-1440
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$65,528
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$65,528
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$38,793
Average Net Price
$32,740
$15,817
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$15,845
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$21,132
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$55,401
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
17%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
32%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

82%
Graduation Rate
92%
90%
Retention Rate
96%
68%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$13,189
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
19%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

55%
Female
55%
57%
White
26%
12%
Hispanic
20%
8%
Black
7%
7%
Asian
23%
0.64
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$60,459
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$70,598
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$79,164
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$26,000
Median Debt
$18,000
0.33x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
79%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

293.70%
Mobility Rate
393.30%
5162.2%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
568.9%
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
$119,700
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.57
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.12
Friending Bias
0.03
6.2%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

#177
World Rank
#73
32.4
Teaching Score
65.4
24.4
Research Score
48.7
87.1
Citations Score
71.9

The Overviews

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY · Private nonprofit

46% accept 82% grad $79,164 earnings $38,793 net

With nearly 15,500 students, Syracuse University creates a vibrant community for those interested in fields like Communications, Business & Marketing, and Visual & Performing Arts. The acceptance rate of 46% means it's fairly selective, but there's a good chance for dedicated applicants to find their place here. The strong graduation rate of 82% speaks to the supportive environment designed to help students succeed, both academically and personally.

Looking at life after graduation, alumni earn an impressive average of $79,164 within ten years of completing their degrees. This level of earning potential highlights the value of the programs here, especially for those who dive into in-demand fields. While 17% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating some affordability challenges, the outcomes suggest that many graduates move up the economic ladder, benefiting from the skills and networks developed during their time at Syracuse.

When considering the financial aspect, the net price after aid sits at $38,793, which is manageable compared to the potential earnings. The median debt of $26,000 is reasonable for many students, especially when weighed against their post-graduation salaries. Those who thrive here tend to be driven, engaged in campus life, and ready to take advantage of the resources available, setting them up for future success in their careers.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit

10% accept 92% grad $92,498 earnings $32,740 net

The University of Southern California has an impressive graduation rate of 92%. This reflects the institution's strong commitment to student success and academic support. Students here are likely to find a community that encourages them to complete their degrees on time.

According to data from Opportunity Insights, while specific mobility metrics are not available, the high graduation rate suggests that many students are able to improve their economic prospects through education. Graduates from USC earn a median salary of $92,498 a decade after leaving, indicating a solid return on investment for their education.

The cost of attendance at USC is $32,740, with a median debt of $18,000 for those who borrow. This financial landscape makes it essential for prospective students to consider their funding options. Students who thrive at USC often have a clear focus on their career paths, particularly in fields like business, arts, and technology.

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