Drake University vs Carnegie Mellon University

Des Moines, IA — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Drake University
Des Moines, IA
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Des Moines, IA Pittsburgh, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 2,543 7,304
Acceptance Rate 63.8% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,292 1,546
In-State Tuition $52,130 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $52,130 $66,246
Avg Net Price $29,127 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $23,000 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 75.7% 93.3%
Retention Rate 84.1% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $58,233 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $71,901 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 132800.0% 138300.0%

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

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Drake University
Des Moines, IA
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Drake University and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Drake University (Des Moines, IA) has an acceptance rate of 63.8%, in-state tuition of $52,130, and median 10-year earnings of $71,901. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) has an acceptance rate of 11.7%, in-state tuition of $66,246, and median 10-year earnings of $114,862.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Drake University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $71,901. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Drake University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Drake University is the more affordable option at $29,127 per year versus $31,944.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Carnegie Mellon University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.3% vs 75.7%.

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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