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San Diego State University vs University of California-San Diego

2

San Diego State University

5

University of California-San Diego

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric San Diego State University University of California-San Diego Winner
Acceptance Rate 34% 25% University of California-San Diego
Graduation Rate 78% 88% University of California-San Diego
Avg Earnings (5yr) $52,620 $65,669 University of California-San Diego
Median Debt $15,000 $15,500 San Diego State University
Tuition (In-State) $8,290 $15,265 San Diego State University
Retention Rate 90% 94% University of California-San Diego
Financial Aid 23% 24% University of California-San Diego

Comparison Analysis

University of California-San Diego graduates earn more than San Diego State University graduates. UCSD graduates earn $65,669, while SDSU graduates earn $52,620. UCSD has a higher graduation rate at 87.7% compared to SDSU's 78.1%. UCSD is more selective, with an acceptance rate of 24.5%, while SDSU's acceptance rate is 34.4%.

San Diego State University has a lower tuition cost. SDSU tuition is $8,290, which is significantly less than UCSD's tuition of $15,265.

The overall value proposition depends on individual priorities. If a student prioritizes higher earnings and graduation rates, UCSD may be the better choice. If a student prioritizes lower tuition costs, SDSU may be a better fit.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major San Diego State University Earnings University of California-San Diego Earnings Difference
Business Administration, Management and Operations $46,275 $98,870 114% favor University of California-San Diego
Business Administration, Management and Operations $46,275 $0
Psychology, General $29,346 $29,144 1% favor San Diego State University
International/Global Studies $0 $45,168
Economics $44,125 $51,192 16% favor University of California-San Diego
Biology, General $33,597 $34,504 3% favor University of California-San Diego
Psychology, General $29,346 $0
Psychology, General $29,346 $0
Political Science and Government $38,060 $33,345 14% favor San Diego State University
Mechanical Engineering $69,754 $69,555 0% favor San Diego State University

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location San Diego, CA
Setting City
Students 33,654
Type Public
Location La Jolla, CA
Setting City
Students 33,787

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego State University has median earnings of $52,620 and tuition of $8,290. University of California-San Diego has median earnings of $65,669 and tuition of $15,265. The best choice depends on your priorities, field of study, and financial situation.

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