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Southern Methodist University vs University of California-San Diego

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Southern Methodist University

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University of California-San Diego

Quick answer

Comparing Southern Methodist University and University of California-San Diego on CollegeFactbook.com: median 5-year earnings are $65,556 vs $65,669, with tuition of $64,460 vs $15,265 — University of California-San Diego leads on graduate earnings.

Key Metrics Compared

Official Data
Metric Southern Methodist University University of California-San Diego Winner
Acceptance Rate 61% 25% University of California-San Diego
Graduation Rate 83% 88% University of California-San Diego
Avg Earnings (5yr) $65,556 $65,669 University of California-San Diego
Median Debt $19,500 $15,500 University of California-San Diego
Tuition (In-State) $64,460 $15,265 University of California-San Diego
Retention Rate 90% 94% University of California-San Diego
Financial Aid 22% 24% University of California-San Diego

Comparison Analysis

University of California-San Diego and Southern Methodist University have similar graduate earnings. UCSD graduates earn $65,669, while SMU graduates earn $65,556. UCSD has a higher graduation rate at 87.7% compared to SMU's 82.8%. UCSD has a much lower acceptance rate of 24.5% compared to SMU's 61.2%.

SMU's tuition is significantly higher at $64,460 compared to UCSD's $15,265. UCSD appears to offer a better value proposition due to its lower tuition and higher graduation rate, despite similar earnings.

Decision factors may include the importance of acceptance rate, as SMU is easier to get into. Students may also consider location, campus culture, and specific academic programs.

Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data

Shared Programs

Shared Major Southern Methodist University Earnings University of California-San Diego Earnings Difference
International/Global Studies $0 $45,168 —
Cognitive Science $0 $39,839 —
International/Global Studies $0 $45,168 —
Economics $71,630 $51,192 40% favor Southern Methodist University
Political Science and Government $52,160 $33,345 56% favor Southern Methodist University
Economics $0 $51,192 —
Economics $0 $51,192 —
Economics $0 $51,192 —
Economics $0 $51,192 —
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology $0 $45,066 —

Quick Facts

Type Private Non-Profit
Location Dallas, TX
Setting Suburban
Students 7,106
Type Public
Location La Jolla, CA
Setting City
Students 33,787

Other Comparisons

Frequently Asked Questions

Southern Methodist University has median earnings of $65,556 and tuition of $64,460. 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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