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Washington and Lee University vs Western Governors University

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

14
Washington Wins
16
Tied / N/A
12
Western Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Town
Setting
Suburban
Southeast
Region
Rocky Mountains
1,881
Enrollment
155,088
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

14%
Acceptance Rate
N/A
1498
SAT Average
N/A
34
ACT Midpoint
N/A
1430-1540
SAT Range
N/A

Cost & Financial Aid

$68,045
In-State Tuition
$8,658
$68,045
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,658
$23,781
Average Net Price
$12,548
$-1,777
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$12,064
$75
Net Price ($30-48K)
$12,436
$4,497
Net Price ($48-75K)
$12,578
$40,646
Net Price ($110K+)
$12,734
11%
Pell Grant Rate
39%
14%
Federal Loan Rate
43%

Academics

94%
Graduation Rate
48%
97%
Retention Rate
65%
88%
Full-Time Faculty
75%
$14,155
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$6,375
N/A
First-Gen Students
47%

Student Body

44%
Female
69%
68%
White
50%
9%
Hispanic
16%
5%
Black
14%
5%
Asian
4%
0.52
Diversity Index
0.70

Outcomes

$76,516
Earnings (6yr)
$69,572
$89,772
Earnings (8yr)
$68,924
$94,810
Earnings (10yr)
$60,615
$19,500
Median Debt
$11,116
0.21x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.18x
83%
Earning Above HS
71%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

57.09%
Mobility Rate
N/A
5102.3%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
N/A
111.9%
From Bottom 20%
N/A
$226,700
Parent Median Income
N/A

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
N/A
0.00
Friending Bias
N/A
6.9%
Volunteering Rate
N/A

The Overviews

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 94% grad $94,810 earnings $23,781 net

With an acceptance rate of just 14%, Washington and Lee University draws students who are serious about their education and ready to engage deeply in their studies. This private institution, located in Lexington, Virginia, is known for strong programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Biology & Biomedical, Psychology, and Physical Sciences. If you’re looking for a place that encourages critical thinking and a close-knit community, this might just be the right fit for you.

Graduates from Washington and Lee see impressive earnings, with a median income of $94,810 ten years after graduation. This kind of financial outcome suggests that students who excel here are well-prepared for the job market and often find themselves in higher-paying positions. The strong graduation rate of 94% also points to a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and transition smoothly into their careers.

When it comes to the practicalities of attending Washington and Lee, the net price after aid stands at $23,781, which is relatively manageable given the high earning potential post-graduation. With a median debt of $19,500, students can graduate with a reasonable amount of loans, especially considering the high salaries many alumni achieve. Those who thrive here are typically driven, engaged, and ready to make the most of their educational experience.

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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