Columbia Southern University vs California State University-Chico

Orange Beach, AL — Chico, CA

Metric
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
California State University-Chico
Chico, CA
Location Orange Beach, AL Chico, CA
Type Private For-Profit Public
Total Enrollment 12,176 13,631
Acceptance Rate 92.7%
SAT Average
In-State Tuition $6,760 $8,472
Out-of-State Tuition $6,760 $21,072
Avg Net Price $14,580 $14,480
Median Debt at Graduation $21,339 $16,552
4-Year Graduation Rate 35.3% 63.2%
Retention Rate 71.0% 81.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,140 $50,493
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,534 $64,172
Loan Repayment Rate 487700.0% 515600.0%

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

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Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
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California State University-Chico
Chico, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia Southern University and California State University-Chico compare?
Columbia Southern University (Orange Beach, AL) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $6,760, and median 10-year earnings of $63,534. California State University-Chico (Chico, CA) has an acceptance rate of 92.7%, in-state tuition of $8,472, and median 10-year earnings of $64,172.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia Southern University or California State University-Chico?
California State University-Chico graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,172 vs $63,534. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia Southern University or California State University-Chico?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Chico is the more affordable option at $14,480 per year versus $14,580.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
California State University-Chico has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 63.2% vs 35.3%.

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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