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University of Massachusetts-Amherst vs University of Southern California

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

13
University Wins
12
Tied / N/A
21
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
New England
Region
Far West
23,671
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

60%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1423
SAT Average
1495
31
ACT Midpoint
34
1310-1500
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$17,772
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$40,449
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$22,383
Average Net Price
$32,740
$10,164
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$10,456
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$12,932
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$30,793
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
20%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
47%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

83%
Graduation Rate
92%
92%
Retention Rate
96%
81%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$14,663
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
22%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

52%
Female
55%
57%
White
26%
9%
Hispanic
20%
5%
Black
7%
14%
Asian
23%
0.64
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$60,347
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$66,904
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$71,631
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$22,763
Median Debt
$18,000
0.32x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
75%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

N/A
Mobility Rate
393.30%
N/A
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
N/A
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
N/A
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.80
Economic Connectedness
1.78
0.01
Friending Bias
0.03
9.0%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

N/A
World Rank
#73
N/A
Teaching Score
65.4
N/A
Research Score
48.7
N/A
Citations Score
71.9

The Overviews

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · Public

60% accept 83% grad $71,631 earnings $22,383 net

With an enrollment of 23,671 students, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a great fit for those looking for a diverse and vibrant campus life. It stands out for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Engineering. Students here are often engaged in a wide range of studies, reflecting both academic rigor and practical application. The acceptance rate of 60% means that while it’s accessible, there’s still a competitive edge that can stimulate personal growth.

Graduates from UMass-Amherst can expect solid outcomes, with a median earning of $71,631 ten years after graduation. This figure speaks volumes about the potential return on investment. It’s encouraging to know that students can find rewarding careers, especially considering the affordability of education here. The net price after aid is $22,383, which positions the school as a reasonable choice for many families.

When it comes to finances, the median debt stands at $22,763, which is manageable given the earning potential. UMass-Amherst tends to attract students who are motivated and ready to embrace the opportunities that come with a public university experience. With 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, there’s a commitment to supporting diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Overall, this school nurtures those who are eager to thrive both academically and professionally after graduation.

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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