Michigan State University vs California State University-Long Beach

East Lansing, MI — Long Beach, CA

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
California State University-Long Beach
Long Beach, CA
Location East Lansing, MI Long Beach, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 35,924
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 46.3%
SAT Average 1,269
In-State Tuition $16,458 $7,350
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $19,950
Avg Net Price $19,680 $10,440
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $14,289
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 69.3%
Retention Rate 90.0% 86.8%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $50,062
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $64,403
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 894200.0%

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

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Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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California State University-Long Beach
Long Beach, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and California State University-Long Beach compare?
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. California State University-Long Beach (Long Beach, CA) has an acceptance rate of 46.3%, in-state tuition of $7,350, and median 10-year earnings of $64,403.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or California State University-Long Beach?
Michigan State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $67,253 vs $64,403. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or California State University-Long Beach?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Long Beach is the more affordable option at $10,440 per year versus $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Michigan State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 81.4% vs 69.3%.

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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