Michigan State University vs University of Alabama at Birmingham

East Lansing, MI — Birmingham, AL

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
Location East Lansing, MI Birmingham, AL
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 11,635
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 88.2%
SAT Average 1,269 1,258
In-State Tuition $16,458 $9,098
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $22,562
Avg Net Price $19,680 $18,749
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $22,300
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 63.4%
Retention Rate 90.0% 80.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $46,572
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $54,501
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 504900.0%

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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University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and University of Alabama at Birmingham 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. University of Alabama at Birmingham (Birmingham, AL) has an acceptance rate of 88.2%, in-state tuition of $9,098, and median 10-year earnings of $54,501.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or University of Alabama at Birmingham?
Michigan State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $67,253 vs $54,501. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or University of Alabama at Birmingham?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Alabama at Birmingham is the more affordable option at $18,749 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 63.4%.

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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