California State University-San Marcos vs Fordham University

San Marcos, CA — Bronx, NY

Metric
California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
Fordham University
Bronx, NY
Location San Marcos, CA Bronx, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 14,877 10,512
Acceptance Rate 95.1% 59.3%
SAT Average 1,418
In-State Tuition $8,082 $64,915
Out-of-State Tuition $20,682 $64,915
Avg Net Price $10,229 $44,338
Median Debt at Graduation $17,350 $24,300
4-Year Graduation Rate 54.4% 81.1%
Retention Rate 78.6% 88.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,673 $68,008
Median Earnings (10 yr) $62,908 $85,569
Loan Repayment Rate 333500.0% 293000.0%

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

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California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
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Fordham University
Bronx, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do California State University-San Marcos and Fordham University compare?
California State University-San Marcos (San Marcos, CA) has an acceptance rate of 95.1%, in-state tuition of $8,082, and median 10-year earnings of $62,908. Fordham University (Bronx, NY) has an acceptance rate of 59.3%, in-state tuition of $64,915, and median 10-year earnings of $85,569.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, California State University-San Marcos or Fordham University?
Fordham University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $85,569 vs $62,908. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-San Marcos or Fordham University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-San Marcos is the more affordable option at $10,229 per year versus $44,338.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Fordham University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 81.1% vs 54.4%.

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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