Duke University vs University of California-San Diego

Durham, NC — La Jolla, CA

Metric
Duke University
Durham, NC
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
Location Durham, NC La Jolla, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 6,442 34,948
Acceptance Rate 5.7% 26.7%
SAT Average 1,548
In-State Tuition $68,758 $16,758
Out-of-State Tuition $68,758 $50,958
Avg Net Price $29,612 $12,470
Median Debt at Graduation $13,000 $15,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.3% 86.8%
Retention Rate 97.9% 94.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $85,792 $65,669
Median Earnings (10 yr) $97,800 $84,943
Loan Repayment Rate 124100.0% 802100.0%

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

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Duke University
Durham, NC
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University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Duke University and University of California-San Diego compare?
Duke University (Durham, NC) has an acceptance rate of 5.7%, in-state tuition of $68,758, and median 10-year earnings of $97,800. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) has an acceptance rate of 26.7%, in-state tuition of $16,758, and median 10-year earnings of $84,943.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Duke University or University of California-San Diego?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $84,943. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Duke University or University of California-San Diego?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-San Diego is the more affordable option at $12,470 per year versus $29,612.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 86.8%.

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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