Columbia University in the City of New York vs Michigan State University
New York, NY — East Lansing, MI
| Metric | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Location | New York, NY | East Lansing, MI |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 8,973 | 40,922 |
| Acceptance Rate | 4.0% | 84.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,553 | 1,269 |
| In-State Tuition | $71,845 | $16,458 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $71,845 | $43,842 |
| Avg Net Price | $21,590 | $19,680 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $23,250 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 81.4% |
| Retention Rate | 98.0% | 90.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $88,535 | $55,084 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491 | $67,253 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 185800.0% | 1161300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Columbia University in the City of New York and Michigan State University compare?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491. Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) has an acceptance rate of 84.8%, in-state tuition of $16,458, and median 10-year earnings of $67,253.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or Michigan State University?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or Michigan State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Michigan State University is the more affordable option at $19,680 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 81.4%.
More Comparisons
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