Duke University vs University of Southern California

Durham, NC — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Duke University
Durham, NC
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Durham, NC Los Angeles, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 6,442 20,443
Acceptance Rate 5.7% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,548 1,495
In-State Tuition $68,758 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $68,758 $72,097
Avg Net Price $29,612 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $13,000 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.3% 91.9%
Retention Rate 97.9% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $85,792 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $97,800 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 124100.0% 435800.0%

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 Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Duke University and University of Southern California 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 Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Duke University or University of Southern California?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $92,498. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Duke University or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Duke University is the more affordable option at $29,612 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 91.9%.

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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