Columbia Southern University vs Cornell University

Orange Beach, AL — Ithaca, NY

Metric
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Orange Beach, AL Ithaca, NY
Type Private For-Profit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 12,176 15,995
Acceptance Rate 8.8%
SAT Average 1,535
In-State Tuition $6,760 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $6,760 $69,314
Avg Net Price $14,580 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $21,339 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 35.3% 95.3%
Retention Rate 71.0% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,140 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,534 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 487700.0% 313700.0%

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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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia Southern University and Cornell University 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. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia Southern University or Cornell University?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $63,534. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia Southern University or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Columbia Southern University is the more affordable option at $14,580 per year versus $28,690.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Cornell University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.3% 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