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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill vs University of Southern California

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

19
University Wins
8
Tied / N/A
19
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Urban
Southeast
Region
Far West
20,752
Enrollment
20,443
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

15%
Acceptance Rate
10%
1439
SAT Average
1495
25
ACT Midpoint
34
1390-1530
SAT Range
1450-1550

Cost & Financial Aid

$8,994
In-State Tuition
$72,097
$41,203
Out-of-State Tuition
$72,097
$11,655
Average Net Price
$32,740
$2,004
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$13,516
$3,918
Net Price ($30-48K)
$14,394
$8,538
Net Price ($48-75K)
$19,539
$24,396
Net Price ($110K+)
$56,116
20%
Pell Grant Rate
22%
13%
Federal Loan Rate
24%

Academics

92%
Graduation Rate
92%
97%
Retention Rate
96%
78%
Full-Time Faculty
59%
$15,046
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,924
20%
First-Gen Students
25%

Student Body

62%
Female
55%
53%
White
26%
10%
Hispanic
20%
7%
Black
7%
16%
Asian
23%
0.67
Diversity Index
0.81

Outcomes

$57,057
Earnings (6yr)
$74,461
$65,584
Earnings (8yr)
$87,601
$72,200
Earnings (10yr)
$92,498
$14,000
Median Debt
$18,000
0.19x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.19x
78%
Earning Above HS
81%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

115.19%
Mobility Rate
393.30%
3330.1%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
5455.5%
345.9%
From Bottom 20%
720.9%
$129,500
Parent Median Income
$120,100

Social Capital

1.68
Economic Connectedness
1.78
-0.01
Friending Bias
0.03
8.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.2%

Research (Times HE)

#30
World Rank
#73
70.9
Teaching Score
65.4
75.1
Research Score
48.7
85
Citations Score
71.9

The Overviews

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · Public

15% accept 92% grad $72,200 earnings $11,655 net

With an acceptance rate of just 15%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill attracts students who are ready to dive into a diverse range of studies, including Biology, Business, and Communications. This school is a great fit for those who thrive in a competitive environment and are looking for strong academic support. The impressive graduation rate of 92% indicates a solid commitment to student success, meaning you'll likely find yourself in a community that values achievement and collaboration.

After graduation, students can expect to earn an average of $72,200 within a decade, which is a pretty solid starting point for many. This level of earning power suggests that the programs offered here are well-aligned with job market needs. Additionally, the cost of attendance is manageable, with a net price of $11,655 after aid, making it a compelling choice for those concerned about financial barriers.

When it comes to debt, the median load of $14,000 is relatively low compared to what many graduates face elsewhere. This means that students who manage their finances well can leave college with a degree of financial freedom. Generally, those who thrive here are driven and engaged, ready to take advantage of the rich academic and social resources that UNC Chapel Hill has to offer.

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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