Michigan State University vs Carnegie Mellon University

East Lansing, MI — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location East Lansing, MI Pittsburgh, PA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 40,922 7,304
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,269 1,546
In-State Tuition $16,458 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $66,246
Avg Net Price $19,680 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 93.3%
Retention Rate 90.0% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 138300.0%

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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Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and Carnegie Mellon University 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. 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, Michigan State University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Michigan State University is the more affordable option at $19,680 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 81.4%.

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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