Art Center College of Design vs Carnegie Mellon University

Pasadena, CA — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Art Center College of Design
Pasadena, CA
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Pasadena, CA Pittsburgh, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 2,017 7,304
Acceptance Rate 74.5% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,546
In-State Tuition $54,170 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $54,170 $66,246
Avg Net Price $48,661 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $31,000 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 80.8% 93.3%
Retention Rate 85.9% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $53,562 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $71,958 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 71000.0% 138300.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Art Center College of Design
Pasadena, CA
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Art Center College of Design and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, CA) has an acceptance rate of 74.5%, in-state tuition of $54,170, and median 10-year earnings of $71,958. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) has an acceptance rate of 11.7%, in-state tuition of $66,246, and median 10-year earnings of $114,862.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Art Center College of Design or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $71,958. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Art Center College of Design or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Carnegie Mellon University is the more affordable option at $31,944 per year versus $48,661.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Carnegie Mellon University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.3% vs 80.8%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025