Carnegie Mellon University vs Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
5
Carnegie Mellon University
2
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Key Metrics Compared
Official Data| Metric | Carnegie Mellon University | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 11% | 54% |
| Graduation Rate | 92% | 84% |
| Avg Earnings (5yr) | $105,360 | $55,620 |
| Median Debt | $21,750 | $25,000 |
| Tuition (In-State) | $63,829 | $20,234 |
| Retention Rate | 97% | 92% |
| Financial Aid | 36% | 40% |
Comparison Analysis
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn significantly more than Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus graduates. The median earnings for Carnegie Mellon alumni are $105,360, while Penn State alumni earn $55,620. Carnegie Mellon's tuition is considerably higher, at $63,829, compared to Penn State's $20,234. Carnegie Mellon has a higher graduation rate, 92%, than Penn State's 84.4%. Carnegie Mellon is much more selective, with an acceptance rate of 11.4%, compared to Penn State's 54.2%.
Carnegie Mellon wins on earnings, graduation rate, and selectivity. Penn State wins on tuition and acceptance rate.
The overall value proposition depends on individual priorities. Students prioritizing future earnings and graduation rates may favor Carnegie Mellon, despite the higher cost and lower chance of acceptance. Students prioritizing affordability and a higher chance of acceptance may favor Penn State, accepting the lower average earnings.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data