Columbia College Chicago vs Lehigh University
Chicago, IL — Bethlehem, PA
| Metric | Columbia College Chicago Chicago, IL | Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Chicago, IL | Bethlehem, PA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 5,368 | 5,898 |
| Acceptance Rate | 89.5% | 25.9% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,440 |
| In-State Tuition | $34,088 | $64,980 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $34,088 | $64,980 |
| Avg Net Price | $26,598 | $36,931 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 | $21,960 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 49.9% | 88.5% |
| Retention Rate | 66.0% | 93.7% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $32,596 | $88,810 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $42,195 | $105,584 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 626500.0% | 126500.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Columbia College Chicago
Chicago, IL
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Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia College Chicago and Lehigh University compare?▼
Columbia College Chicago (Chicago, IL) has an acceptance rate of 89.5%, in-state tuition of $34,088, and median 10-year earnings of $42,195. Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, in-state tuition of $64,980, and median 10-year earnings of $105,584.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia College Chicago or Lehigh University?▼
Lehigh University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $105,584 vs $42,195. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia College Chicago or Lehigh University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia College Chicago is the more affordable option at $26,598 per year versus $36,931.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Lehigh University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.5% vs 49.9%.
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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