Lees-McRae College vs Carnegie Mellon University

Banner Elk, NC — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, NC
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Banner Elk, NC Pittsburgh, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 873 7,304
Acceptance Rate 76.8% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,546
In-State Tuition $33,250 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $33,250 $66,246
Avg Net Price $28,340 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $17,375 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 43.1% 93.3%
Retention Rate 68.8% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $41,599 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $43,415 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 57000.0% 138300.0%

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

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Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, NC
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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Lees-McRae College and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Lees-McRae College (Banner Elk, NC) has an acceptance rate of 76.8%, in-state tuition of $33,250, and median 10-year earnings of $43,415. 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, Lees-McRae College or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $43,415. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Lees-McRae College or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Lees-McRae College is the more affordable option at $28,340 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 43.1%.

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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