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Michigan State University vs University of Colorado Boulder

5

Michigan State University

2

University of Colorado Boulder

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric Michigan State University University of Colorado Boulder Winner
Acceptance Rate 84% 83% University of Colorado Boulder
Graduation Rate 82% 75% Michigan State University
Avg Earnings (5yr) $55,084 $54,939 Michigan State University
Median Debt $23,250 $19,500 University of Colorado Boulder
Tuition (In-State) $15,988 $16,430 Michigan State University
Retention Rate 91% 89% Michigan State University
Financial Aid 33% 24% Michigan State University

Comparison Analysis

Michigan State University graduates earn slightly more than University of Colorado Boulder graduates, with earnings of $55,084 compared to $54,939. Michigan State's tuition is also lower, at $15,988, while the University of Colorado Boulder's tuition is $16,430. Michigan State has a higher graduation rate, at 81.9%, than the University of Colorado Boulder, which has a 74.9% graduation rate. Both schools have similar acceptance rates, with Michigan State at 83.9% and the University of Colorado Boulder at 83.3%.

Based on earnings, tuition, and graduation rates, Michigan State University appears to offer a slightly better value proposition. Students at Michigan State earn more, pay less in tuition, and are more likely to graduate.

For prospective students, the decision may hinge on factors beyond these metrics. Students should consider factors like location, specific academic programs, campus culture, and financial aid packages.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major Michigan State University Earnings University of Colorado Boulder Earnings Difference
Business Administration, Management and Operations $71,253 $56,014 27% favor Michigan State University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $117,756 $56,014 110% favor Michigan State University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $0 $56,014
Business Administration, Management and Operations $0 $56,014
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication $45,158 $42,218 7% favor Michigan State University
Psychology, General $30,164 $30,176 0% favor University of Colorado Boulder
Business Administration, Management and Operations $71,253 $94,825 33% favor University of Colorado Boulder
Communication and Media Studies $36,390 $39,738 9% favor University of Colorado Boulder
Economics $54,013 $51,521 5% favor Michigan State University
Business Administration, Management and Operations $117,756 $94,825 24% favor Michigan State University

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location East Lansing, MI
Setting City
Students 40,243
Type Public
Location Boulder, CO
Setting City
Students 31,578

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

Michigan State University has median earnings of $55,084 and tuition of $15,988. University of Colorado Boulder has median earnings of $54,939 and tuition of $16,430. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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