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University of California-Berkeley vs University of California-San Diego

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University of California-Berkeley

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University of California-San Diego

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric University of California-Berkeley University of California-San Diego Winner
Acceptance Rate 12% 25% University of California-Berkeley
Graduation Rate 94% 88% University of California-Berkeley
Avg Earnings (5yr) $74,919 $65,669 University of California-Berkeley
Median Debt $13,000 $15,500 University of California-Berkeley
Tuition (In-State) $14,850 $15,265 University of California-Berkeley
Retention Rate 97% 94% University of California-Berkeley
Financial Aid 18% 24% University of California-San Diego

Comparison Analysis

University of California-Berkeley graduates earn more than University of California-San Diego graduates. Berkeley alumni earn $74,919, while San Diego alumni earn $65,669. Berkeley also has a higher graduation rate, at 93.5% compared to San Diego's 87.7%. However, Berkeley has a much lower acceptance rate, at 11.7%, while San Diego's acceptance rate is 24.5%.

The tuition at both schools is similar. Berkeley's tuition is $14,850, and San Diego's tuition is $15,265.

The overall value proposition depends on individual priorities. Berkeley offers higher earnings and a higher graduation rate, but it is more selective. San Diego is less selective, and its graduates earn less, but the tuition is similar.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major University of California-Berkeley Earnings University of California-San Diego Earnings Difference
Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences $43,270 $0
Economics $80,446 $51,192 57% favor University of California-Berkeley
Cognitive Science $64,559 $39,839 62% favor University of California-Berkeley
Political Science and Government $45,418 $33,345 36% favor University of California-Berkeley
Economics $80,446 $0
Economics $80,446 $0
International/Global Studies $46,660 $45,168 3% favor University of California-Berkeley
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $137,295 $111,009 24% favor University of California-Berkeley
International/Global Studies $0 $45,168
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $137,295 $80,687 70% favor University of California-Berkeley

Quick Facts

Type Public
Location Berkeley, CA
Setting City
Students 33,073
Type Public
Location La Jolla, CA
Setting City
Students 33,787

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

University of California-Berkeley has median earnings of $74,919 and tuition of $14,850. 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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