California State University-Northridge vs Southern Methodist University

Northridge, CA — Dallas, TX

Metric
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Location Northridge, CA Dallas, TX
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 32,691 7,277
Acceptance Rate 93.5% 63.3%
SAT Average 1,428
In-State Tuition $7,458 $67,040
Out-of-State Tuition $20,058 $67,040
Avg Net Price $7,021 $40,892
Median Debt at Graduation $13,872 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 56.5% 83.8%
Retention Rate 73.4% 90.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $44,372 $65,556
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,115 $78,354
Loan Repayment Rate 999500.0% 131300.0%

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

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California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
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Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do California State University-Northridge and Southern Methodist University compare?
California State University-Northridge (Northridge, CA) has an acceptance rate of 93.5%, in-state tuition of $7,458, and median 10-year earnings of $59,115. Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) has an acceptance rate of 63.3%, in-state tuition of $67,040, and median 10-year earnings of $78,354.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-Northridge or Southern Methodist University?
Southern Methodist University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $78,354 vs $59,115. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-Northridge or Southern Methodist University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Northridge is the more affordable option at $7,021 per year versus $40,892.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Southern Methodist University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.8% vs 56.5%.

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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