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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs Williams College

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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

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Williams College

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Williams College Winner
Acceptance Rate 30% 10% Williams College
Graduation Rate 85% 96% Williams College
Avg Earnings (5yr) $72,358 $71,754 California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Median Debt $18,500 $12,761 Williams College
Tuition (In-State) $11,075 $64,860 California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Retention Rate 95% 97% Williams College
Financial Aid 24% 6% California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Comparison Analysis

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn an average of $72,358, while Williams College graduates earn $71,754. Williams College has a higher graduation rate at 95.8% compared to Cal Poly's 85.3%. Cal Poly has a significantly higher acceptance rate at 29.8% than Williams College's 10%.

Cal Poly's tuition is $11,075, which is substantially less than Williams College's tuition of $64,860. Considering both earnings and tuition, Cal Poly offers a better value proposition due to its lower cost.

Students may choose Williams College if they prioritize a higher graduation rate and a more selective academic environment. Students may choose Cal Poly if they prioritize lower tuition costs and a higher acceptance rate.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Earnings Williams College Earnings Difference
Biology, General $35,638 $41,213 16% favor Williams College
Psychology, General $23,744 $43,943 85% favor Williams College
Economics $67,501 $80,888 20% favor Williams College
Political Science and Government $37,003 $56,817 54% favor Williams College
Economics $0 $80,888
English Language and Literature, General $34,718 $49,340 42% favor Williams College
History $31,540 $0
Mathematics $53,136 $55,193 4% favor Williams College
Fine and Studio Arts $36,006 $34,560 4% favor California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Sociology $30,401 $0

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location San Luis Obispo, CA
Setting Suburban
Students 21,521

Williams College

Type Private Non-Profit
Location Williamstown, MA
Setting Town
Students 2,060

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has median earnings of $72,358 and tuition of $11,075. Williams College has median earnings of $71,754 and tuition of $64,860. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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